Overview: The Sarplaninac is a dog that means business. It will protect everything it can, be it master or land. It does not trust people and animals it doesn't know and may threaten or even attack them if they get too close. It isn't an affectionate dog and doesn't like to play much. It needs something to guard at all times to fulfill its instinctual responsibilities.

Temperament: This breed is accustomed to protecting and herding from dangerous predators, so it may be protective of its family. It shows little to no affection towards its master and would be much happier with someone to guard. Usually calm, it will however act aggressively when it feels the need to protect. While it is guarding it will confront anything seen to be dangerous without hesitation. It may not seem like it, but this dog isn't all brawn. It is a very wise and cautious canine that is very careful meeting new people and animals.

History: The Sarplaninac originated in the south-western area of Srbija and the north-western part of Macedonia. This area was once called Illyria, which was the original name given to this breed. Although the area this dog came from was renamed Macedonia, this breed was mainly working in the mountains of Shar Planina and were renamed to match that geographical area. In the late 1930's, this breed was renamed the Illyrian Shepherd Dog, however it wasn't more than fifteen years later when it was again change, and this time to Yugoslav Shepherd Dog-Sharplaninec. Once the Yugoslavian and the Soviet Union governments had collapsed, Macedonia requested the name of this breed be changed to match both countries. This request was granted and the name was once again changed; Macedonian-Yugoslav Shepherd Dog-Sharplaninec. This breed is still used for herding and protecting herds in the mountains in its native land.

Names: The Sarplaninac is also known as the Sar Planina, Illyrian Sheepdog, Macedonian-Yugoslav Shepherd Dog-Sharplaninec, Charplaninatz, Yugoslav Shepherd Dog, Illyrian Dog, Yugoslav Mountain Dog, Ovcarski Pas Srbije I Crne Gore, and the Sarpie.

Physical Characteristics: Considered a medium size breed, the average adult Sarplaninac can be 22 to 24 inches in height, and should weigh between 55 and 88 lb. The coat is long and dense and can come in a variety of colors, both solid and mixed. It is well muscled and strong boned in the forelegs.

Care: This breed needs a lot of exercise. If it lives in an area with a large field and something to herd, it should do fine. If it doesn't, it should be taken on long walks daily to supply it with its exercise needs or it may become bored and even destructive. It has a coat that can stand up to any climate, and as such should be expected to live outdoors. Occasional brushing should keep the coat in good shape.

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