| Šarplaninac | ||||||
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| Country of origin | ||||||
| Republic of Macedonia / Serbia and Montenegro | ||||||
| Classification | ||||||
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| Breed standards (external links) | ||||||
| FCI | ||||||
| Notes | ||||||
| The CKC "miscellaneous class" is for breeds working towards full recognition. |
The Šarplaninac (pronounced “shar-pla-NEE-natz”) is a medium-sized shepherd dog breed of the Balkan region. His name comes from the Šar mountain range (Šar Planina) spanning at the border of FYR Macedonia, Kosovo and Albania, where he is typically found accompanying and guarding the great sheep flocks as they graze. The breed can also work cattle and serve as a guard dog; it was bred and used as a military dog under Marshall Tito. The “Sar” stands 22 to 24 inches (56-61 cm) in height and weighs 55 to 80 pounds (25-36 kg). In colour it is tan, iron grey, white or black. The coat is dense and medium in length; it can be rough or smooth.
The Šarplaninac is spreading through ranches in North America as a serious sheep herding dog and a livestock guardian. Predator problems are said to be greatly diminished once a Šar takes responsibility for a flock. The temperament of the breed is described as independent, aloof with outsiders, and calm until a threat to the flock presents itself, when suddenly the Šar erupts into swift ferocity. The breed has a highly protective nature.
The breed is recognised by the FCI (Group 2, Breed 41). It is listed in CKC’s Miscellaneous class as the Yugoslavian Shepherd Dog. Not registered with AKC, it is registered with UKC and Continental Kennel Club in the USA.