Pastore Fonnese

The Pastore Fonnese is a Sardinian flock guardian and herder — a shaggy, imposing dog from the mountains around Fonni, and one of Italy's least-known native breeds.

History

It has guarded sheep and property in inland Sardinia for centuries, in a tradition that valued a dog willing to work without instruction and to see off intruders on its own judgement. Italian recognition is recent; the type is old.

Temperament

The breed is known for being suspicious of strangers, deeply attached to its own people and highly independent — a guardian that decides for itself, which is exactly what it was kept for and what makes it a demanding companion.

Care and training

It needs space, secure boundaries, early socialising and an experienced owner. Exercise needs are moderate; the management requirement is not. The rough coat needs occasional brushing.

Health

Shaped by work rather than by a standard, it is generally hardy with nothing widely documented as breed-specific. These are patterns for the breed rather than a forecast for one dog; the measured facts are in the panel.