Croatian Sheepdog

Temperament:

Learned, Adaptable, Perceptive
Size: Medium
Height: 40-50 cm
Weight: 13-16 kg
Lifespan: 13-14 years
Coat: Medium Hair
Colors: Black, Black and white
FCI Group: Sheepdogs and Cattledogs (except Swiss Cattledogs)

The Croatian Sheepdog is also known as the Hrvatski Ovčar in its homeland. In Germany, it is one of the lesser-known dog breeds. It is characterized by its family friendliness and people orientation. Like other sheepdogs, however, it also needs meaningful tasks and plenty of exercise.

Croatian Sheepdog
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Characteristics

The Croatian Sheepdog is a breed recognized by the FCI. It grows up to 50 cm tall and weighs up to 16 kg. Its coat is pure black, soft and of medium length. Small white patches may appear occasionally. Its pointed head and muscular build make it a very attractive dog.

The Croatian Sheepdog is often used as a companion dog. Its docility and adaptability make it a suitable companion dog. It is also very people-oriented.

As he is very fond of children, he can also be kept as a family dog. However, he has a strong protective instinct. He always wants to keep his herd, his family, together. This is why it is mainly used as a herding dog in Croatia.

In order to keep the Croatian Sheepdog as an uncomplicated family dog, consistent training is necessary right from the start. It is best to attend a good dog school right from the start. There, your dog will be well socialized and you will learn to get along with each other. In addition to physical exercise, mental exercise is also very important. The Croatian Sheepdog is a very intelligent dog. This means that it understands new commands quickly and carries them out without any problems.

He is also very loyal and wants to fulfill his owner's every wish. Unlike other German Shepherds, it will carry out commands even if it does not understand their meaning. The Croatian Sheepdog is rather reserved towards strangers, but builds up a close bond when trusted. As a rule, it also quickly integrates other dogs and cats into its pack.

Coat care:

Little
Medium
Intensive

Shedding:

Little
Medium
Intensive

Energy level:

Little
Medium
High

Trainability:

Little
Medium
Good

Children suitable:

Less
With supervision
Perfect

The right food

When choosing food, make sure that it contains high-quality ingredients, is balanced and meets your dog's requirements. Age, size or weight, activity and health status play an important role. You should follow the manufacturer's recommendations for the amount of food.

Treats should only be fed in moderation and deducted from the basic diet to avoid obesity.

Puppies can be fed 4-6 times a day. The number of meals should be gradually reduced to 2 per day until the dog is fully grown. A rest period should be observed after meals.

Fresh drinking water should be available at all times.

Health & Care

Grooming is an important issue for the Croatian Sheepdog. Its medium-length coat must be brushed regularly to prevent matting. Dirt and twigs must also be removed from the coat after every walk. In addition to grooming, the ears must also be cared for and the claws trimmed.

The Croatian Sheepdog normally only rarely needs to visit the vet. The breed is considered to be very healthy and free from typical breed diseases. Vaccinations and check-ups should always be carried out.

Suitable accessories

A curry comb is suitable for grooming Croatian Sheepdogs. Grooming removes dead hair that does not fall out on its own. It should be used once or twice a week. A mild dog shampoo without perfume is suitable for bathing. However, you should only bathe your dog in an emergency and if it is very dirty.

A good pair of claw clippers is particularly worthwhile for dogs that don't walk much on asphalt. Claws that are too long should always be trimmed.

The usual accessories such as a lead, collar and harness should also be available. Bowls, toys and a place to sleep are just as much a part of the basic equipment as tick tweezers, a toothbrush and toothpaste for dogs, a transport box for transportation in the car and a first aid kit. It's best to ask your vet what should be in the first aid kit.

Croatian Shepherd Dog History

Origin & History

As the name suggests, the Croatian Sheepdog originates from Croatia. There it lives mainly near the Hungarian border. The Hrvatski Ovčar dog breed, as it is called in Croatia, has been known for over 1000 years. It is traditionally used as a herding dog, but is also becoming increasingly popular as a guard, family and companion dog.

Breed standards were established for the first time in 1951. However, the breed was not officially recognized until later. In 1968, the FCI officially included the Hrvatski ovčar in the herding dog category. Nevertheless, the Croatian Sheepdog has hardly established itself outside the Balkans to this day.