Bucovina Shepherd Dog

The Bucovina Shepherd Dog is an excellent protector of the farm because it is distrustful of strangers, ready to defend its territory to the last. They are courageous, cruel to other wild animals. Whole night hunters, because it is at night, go around, check their territory, and when they find something suspicious, they bark loudly.

Breed Photos

Origin History

The Bucovina Shepherd Dog originally lived in the forests of the Carpathian Mountains in areas of Romania and was used to protect herds and guard livestock. There the dog had the nickname “dulau”, which means “shepherd dog”.

There are many theories and myths related to the origin of this breed. It is often claimed that the Bucovina Shepherd Dog’s ancestors are Dacian dogs, who were guards of the Thracians while they were in Romania.

In the middle of the 17th century, the Austro-Hungarians described the first standard of the breed. For a long time, the breed was known only in its own country; the world organizations and cynologists did not attach much importance.

But in 2009, the standard was recognized and confirmed internationally. Now the dogs can rarely be found in European countries. They are most popular in Romania and Serbia.

Appearance

The Bucovina Shepherd Dog is a large and massive dog. Thanks to its gigantic size, it entirely scares away strangers and protects the household.

The tip of the nose has a black point. The ears are set high and placed wide apart from each other. The skin has a thick ball of undercoat that fits tightly against the body.

Sexual dimorphism is present: the height in males is 68-78 cm, in females 64-72 cm. Weight can be from 65 to 80 kg.

The hair on the head is shorter than on the body. In general, the wool is thick, long (6-9 cm), on the neck, you can see the so-called mane.

There are white with black, sandy, or tiger spots. Colors with red tints are also allowed.

Character

The Bucovina Shepherd Dog is an excellent protector of the farm because it is distrustful of strangers, ready to defend its territory to the last. They are courageous, cruel to other wild animals. Whole night hunters, because it is at night, go around, check their territory, and when they find something suspicious, they bark loudly.

Loyal to her owner and family. Get along well with other animals in the same territory, but it is better to grow up with them since childhood. Love children, ready to play with them.

Bucovina Shepherd Dog is balanced, calm, able to keep prudence in all situations. They are very active and cheerful dogs, for which it is crucial not only to walk but also to physical activity and various games.

Care

The best place to live for the Bucovina Shepherd Dog would be a country house because its large size will cause a lot of discomfort in the apartment. The dog likes to play and run a lot and will gladly keep you company when going to the store or going for a run.

A long and thick coat requires regular daily brushing. During molting, the dog loses a lot of hair, so the procedure should be repeated as often as possible.

Bathing is recommended twice a year. Systematically check the ears for cleanliness, wipe the eyes and inspect the mouth. When soiled, special treats for clean teeth can be chewed.

Training

The Bucovina Shepherd Dog is challenging to train because they are dominant dogs. They are stubborn and do not always want to obey their master. The best solution is to ask for help from professionals.

The dog always needs to show who is the real master in the house and show authority. They may refuse to obey easy commands, not because they don’t understand, but because it’s too easy for them.

Common Diseases

The Bucovina Shepherd Dog has good health and a robust immune system. The most prevalent diseases may be hip dysplasia, eye disease, ear disease. Regularly check and treat the coat against fleas and ticks.

Nutrition

It is recommended to feed an adult Bucovina Shepherd Dog once a day. At the same time, the portion should be large enough, containing all the useful components. The basis of the diet is protein. Twice a week, sour-milk products should be given.