What makes the Bucovina Shepherd Unique?
Although Bucovina Shepherds are not very well-known outside of their homeland, members of this hardworking breed are excellent livestock guardians and also devoted family members.
Breed Groups
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| Size: | Males – 68 to 78 cm (27 to 31 inches) Females – 64 to 72 cm (25 to 28 inches) |
| Weight: | Males – 31.8 to –40.8 kg (70.1 to 89.9 lb) Females – 31.8 to 40.8 kg (70.1 to 89.9 lb) |
| Origin: | Romania |
| Life Span: | 12 – 14 Years |
| Colour: | Gray & White, Brindle & White, Black & White |
| Litter Size: | 5 to 10 puppies |
Is the Bucovina Shepherd Right For You?
Bucovina Shepherds are naturally mistrustful of strange people and animals but they are not considered to be aggressive individuals. These dogs will no doubt bark loudly if intruders attempt to enter their domain. Even so, members of this breed are usually tolerant of other dogs, particularly if they have been raised together. The same cannot be said for smaller animals, which Bucovina Shepherds may regard as prey. Prospective owners should additionally be aware that members of this breed need plenty of exercise as well as large amounts of outdoor space to run about and play in. Therefore, Bucovina Shepherds are not recommended for apartment dwellers.
In 5 Words
- Calm
- Very Devoted
- Courageous
- Combative
- Balanced
Characteristics
Learn About the Bucovina Shepherd
Description
General Description
Bucovina Shepherds are large individuals that possess athletic dispositions and strong constitutions. Members of this breed have rectangular bodies that are somewhat longer than they are tall. These dogs have large heads and thick necks. Members of this breed additionally possess snouts that are proportionate in length with the size of their heads. Bucovina Shepherds also have small eyes that are dark in color and almond in shape. Floppy, v-shaped ears with round tips are yet another breed feature. These appendages are set slightly higher than the dog in question’s head happens to be. Members of this breed do not typically have cropped ears, particularly in Europe where the practice is illegal in many countries. Bucovina Shepherds also have slightly crooked tips on their tails.
Size
Males of this breed usually weigh between 110 and 200 pounds (50 and 90 kilograms). Dogs of that gender usually stand around 27 and 31 inches (68 to 78 centimeters) tall. Females of this breed are somewhat smaller than their male contemporaries with an average weight of 110 to 180 pounds (50 to 80 kilograms). They are also shorter than the males with an average height of 25 to 28 inches (64 to 72 centimeters).
Coat
Bucovina Shepherds possess double coats that are comprised of a short, fluffy inner layer and a coarse outer layer that lies flat on their bodies. These individuals have thicker fur on the backside of their legs and around their necks than they do in other places. On their heads and on the front of their legs, these dogs have coats are comparatively shorter in length. Bucovina Shepherds are normally white with clear back or tan patches. Dogs that are completely black or white do exist but these colorations are not generally considered to be acceptable traits.
Short History of the Bucovina Shepherd
Alternately known as the Capau or Dualu breed, Bucovina Shepherds are herding dogs that originated in Romania near the Carpathian Mountains. These individuals are thought to be descendants of animals from the Moesia and Dacia regions. Bucovina Shepherds have obviously used to manage sheep since they were created sometime around the 18th century. However, these dogs were bred for their looks as well as their herding abilities.The official breed standards for these dogs first appeared in 1982 and have undergone several revisions since then. In modern times, members of this breed have increasingly been seen as estate guardians and family pets.
Temperament
Despite their excellence as livestock managers, Bucovina Shepherds are also playful individuals that make good family pets These energetic dogs are incredibly loyal the members of their household and would go great lengths to keep them from coming to harm. However, members of this breed tend to have a rambunctious disposition. When this fact is combined with their large size, it stands to reason that it would be a good idea for families with very small children to avoid this breed in the interest of safety.
Although Bucovina Shepherds are not considered to be aggressive individuals, they are naturally mistrustful of strange people and animals. These dogs will no doubt bark loudly if intruders attempt to enter their domain. Even so, members of this breed are usually tolerant of other dogs, particularly if they have been raised together. The same cannot be said for smaller animals, which Bucovina Shepherds may regard as prey. Prospective owners should additionally be aware that members of this breed need plenty of exercise as well as large amounts of outdoor space to run about and play in. Therefore, Bucovina Shepherds are not recommended for apartment dwellers.
Caring for Your Bucovina Shepherd
General Health
No studies have yet been done regarding health concerns in Bucovina Shepherds. However, these dogs are no doubt susceptible to ailments that are considered common to their species such as hip dysplasia. Since Bucovina Shepherds have been used in a working capacity until very recently, it is likely that they are generally in better health than similar breeds which were long ago turned into show animals. Even so, most large dogs do not have a lifespan that matches that of smaller ones and prospective owners should obviously take this into consideration when making their selection.
Care
Daily
Bucovina Shepherds are incredibly energetic dogs that require plenty of exercise on a regular basis.
Weekly
Members of this breed have thick fur that probably needs to be brushed every other day, if not once per day. The time spent on grooming per week typically averages around 1.5 hours. Regular tooth brushing is likewise recommended to keep these dogs in good oral health.
Monthly
All dogs need parasite prevention medications to keep harmful pests at bay. Most of these products should be administered at least once a month in order to be completely effective.
Grooming & Bathing
Due to their thick coats, Bucovina Shepherds require a lot of grooming. Members of this breed typically shed a lot of fur, particularly when the seasons change. However, professional help is only necessary if pet owners intend on shaving these dogs to keep them cool in the summertime. It is also a good idea to make sure these dogs have their toenails trimmed on a regular basis in order to prevent otherwise avoidable injuries.
Exercise & Training
It is certainly possible for Bucovina Shepherds to adapt to life in urban environments but this is certainly not a recommended course of action. Members of this breed are large dogs that need plenty of space to run and they are much better suited towards life on large estates in rural areas. After all, these animals are indefatigable workers and are at their best when they have a job to perform such as guarding property or taking care of livestock. As is the case with most large breeds, extensive socialization and obedience training from puppyhood are probably the best ways to make sure these dogs become productive members of society. However, Bucovina Shepherds that receive enough mental stimulation and exercise generally tend to be well-behaved individuals.
Bucovina Shepherd Picture Gallery
