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Sarplaninac Information & Dog Breed Facts

Collection of all the general dog breed info about Sarplaninac so you can get to know the breed more.

Group Guard Dogs
Popularity Rank525
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OriginSerbia flagSerbia Macedonia flagMacedonia
Common Names & Aliases
What other names is a Sarplaninac known by? Discover all traditional, regional and informal names used for this breed.
Illyrian Shepherd DogYugoslavian Shepherd DogMacedonian Shepherd
Breed Classification
What type of dog breed is a Sarplaninac? Learn about its genetic classification and breeding category.
Purebred

Sarplaninac Size and Weight

Size Classification
What size category is a Sarplaninac? Learn how big the Sarplaninac breed typically grows.
Large
Weight Statistics
How much does a Sarplaninac weigh? Discover typical weight ranges for adult males and females of the Sarplaninac breed.
Male: 55-80 pounds (25-36 kg), Female: 45-70 pounds (20-32 kg)
Average Weight
What is the average weight of a Sarplaninac?
Male: 67.5 pounds (30.5 kg), Female: 57.5 pounds (26 kg)
Height
How tall is the Sarplaninac? Sarplaninac height:
Male: 22-24 inches (55-61 cm), Female: 21-23 inches (54-59 cm)
Average Height
What is the average height of a Sarplaninac?
Male: 23 inches (58 cm), Female: 22 inches (56.5 cm)

Sarplaninac Price and Availability

Price Range
How much does a Sarplaninac puppy cost? Find current market prices and factors affecting Sarplaninac costs.
$900-$1000
If you choose to purchase the Sarplaninac, you should know that the mentioned amount of money is an average of the collected data from breeders’ sites and puppy finder places. If you have a Sarplaninac for sale, please advertise it on a reliable website to make sure the Sarplaninac gets to a happy place.
Availability
How easy is it to get a Sarplaninac? How many Sarplaninac are there in the world?
Rare: You may rarely see each other in everyday life, but you might catch a glimpse of each other at dog shows.

There are very few of them, and there have been times when they have almost drifted to the brink of extinction, so few are left.

Sarplaninac Trainability and Intelligence

Intelligence Rating
How intelligent is a Sarplaninac? Discover the Sarplaninac's intelligence ranking and learning capabilities.
Average: It takes patience to teach this breed any tricks or commands, but the effort is worth it. They understand and remember new commands after an average of 25-40 repetitions.

The Sarplaninac ranks average in the intelligence ranking of dogs.

Training Difficulty
How easy is it to train a Sarplaninac? Learn about the Sarplaninac's trainability and response to training methods.
Sarplaninac dogs are quite easy to train. Sometimes they can be challenging, but if you're consistent in teaching new commands they will obey for sure.
Watchdog Rating
How good is a Sarplaninac as a watchdog? Learn about the Sarplaninac's alertness and guarding instincts.
Sarplaninac dogs are good watchdogs. Their main job is to observe and they're consistent in their effort. Good vocal cords and a sense of hearing belong to them. Usually, they're territorial and protective about their property, so the Sarplaninac dogs will alert you if they sense something different.
Territorial Protection
Is a Sarplaninac protective of its territory? Learn about the Sarplaninac's guarding instincts and behavior.
Sarplaninac dogs are extremely protective guard dogs. This breed doesn't hesitate to protect its territory so the Sarplaninac can be a good choice if you want an excellent guard dog. Keep calm and the Sarplaninac will take care of unwanted people or animals.

Sarplaninac Personality and Temperament

Personality Traits
What personality does a Sarplaninac have? Learn about characteristic Sarplaninac temperament and behavior traits.
IndependentProtectiveIntelligentReliableDevotedCalm
Sensitivity Level
How sensitive are they? Sarplaninac sensitivity:
Sarplaninac dogs have an average emotional level and are not the most sensitive dog breed. Sometimes it's okay to change the daily routine, have guests and listen to loud music.

Some dogs handle moderate punishment very well, while others crumble apart at a dirty look. This breed is not affected emotionally by moderate punishment.

Affection Level
How affectionate are they? Is a Sarplaninac a good family dog?
Average to High: Sarplaninac dogs are highly affectionate dogs. They like being involved in the family's life. This breed isn't considered an aloof dog.
Social Needs
How much social interaction does the Illyrian Shepherd Dog need? Sarplaninac social needs:
Sarplaninac dogs need for social interaction is average. This breed likes being around people or other animals, but they don't mind being left alone for a few hours either.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
How likely is the Sarplaninac to run away? Does this breed explore or wander a lot? Does Sarplaninac roam?
The wanderlust potential of the Sarplaninac is strong enough to escape from home. They have a strong desire for exploring the world. Safer to walk them on a leash unless you teach them how to get back to you on command.
Prey Drive
Do this canine have a strong prey drive? Does Sarplaninac have high prey drive?
Sarplaninac dogs have a higher impulse to chase and catch something than other dog breeds. Cats or any other small animals might be in danger. It's a natural instinct, doesn't necessarily mean that Sarplaninac dogs are aggressive. Better to keep this breed on a leash.

Sarplaninac Activity and Playfulness

Barking Frequency
Does a Sarplaninac bark a lot? Learn about typical Sarplaninac vocalization patterns and triggers.
Low to Average: The Sarplaninac rarely barks. This breed could be a good choice if you're looking for a quiet breed. They don't bark unless there is a good reason.

Top reasons for barking: protection, alarm, fear, boredom, attention-seeking, greeting, separation anxiety, compulsive barking.

Playful Nature
How playful is a Sarplaninac? Understand the typical play drive and energy level of the Sarplaninac breed.
Sarplaninacs are not the most playful dog breed. Sometimes they do like playing, but that's not their favorite activity.
Apartment Adaptability
Can a Sarplaninac live in an apartment? Learn about the Sarplaninac's suitability for apartment living.
Not an apartment-friendly dog the Sarplaninac breed. If you don't have a garden, think carefully about your decision, keeping Sarplaninac indoors can cause a lot of problems.

Sarplaninac Adaptability and Independence

Lifestyle Adaptability
How adaptable is a Sarplaninac to lifestyle changes? Learn about the Sarplaninac's flexibility to new situations.
Average: Sarplaninac dogs adapt to lifestyle changes and different living environments quite okay usually.
Alone Time Tolerance
Can a Sarplaninac be left alone? Learn about the Sarplaninac's tolerance to solitude.
Just like every puppy, they are prone to panic, cry, bark, whine when they left alone by their owner. With proper socialization and quality time with the dog can solve this problem.

Sarplaninac Bite Characteristics

Bite Risk Assessment
What is a Sarplaninac biting potential? Learn about the Sarplaninac's bite risk factors.

Low 🔽

The Sarplaninac has a low chance of biting somebody. Top reasons for dog bite: protection, pain, excitement, herding instinct, being provoked. (Data based on the available online bite statistics.)
Mouthing Tendency
Is a Sarplaninac mouthy? Learn about the Sarplaninac's tendency to use mouth during play.
Sarplaninac dogs have an average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people. It's a common habit during puppyhood, not aggressive behavior. These "bites" don't hurt, but Sarplaninac dogs need to be taught a good attitude.
Bite Strength Rating
How strong is a Sarplaninac bite? Learn about the Sarplaninac's bite force measured in PSI.

Between 200 and 400 PSI

Sarplaninac bite force: Ordinary. Bite force Sarplaninac measurements typically fall within the range of 200 to 400 PSI. The bite force of a Sarplaninac is considered ordinary when compared to other dog breeds, but it is still quite powerful. This Sarplaninac bite force PSI can cause bite wounds. Sarplaninac bite PSI is not something that should be feared if the dog is well-trained and managed. To avoid any issues, it's essential to learn how to train a Sarplaninac puppy not to bite from an early age.

The Sarplaninac, and many others, have a fearsome presence because they have significant jaw strength, so it is important not to anger the dog and have it around strangers until it is fully trained.

However, they are usually quite calm and good companions, they work well in families and are easy to care for.

In conclusion, while the Sarplaninac bite force is certainly an interesting aspect of the breed, it is important not to let it overshadow the many other reasons why these dogs are so loved and respected. With proper training and socialization, a Sarplaninac can be a loyal and protective companion for your family.

Sarplaninac Health and Lifespan

Average Lifespan
How long does a Sarplaninac live? Learn about the typical lifespan of the Sarplaninac breed.
11-13 years
The average lifespan of Sarplaninac: 12 years
Climate Tolerance
How well does a Sarplaninac handle different weather? Learn about the Sarplaninac's climate adaptability.
Prefers cold weather
The Sarplaninac can adapt well to harsh weather conditions, and also can be a good mountain dog. Dogs can suffer from frostbite and hypothermia in extremely cold weather, so it is important to take precautions to keep your dog safe and comfortable during the winter months.
Health Concerns
What health issues are common in a Sarplaninac? Discover typical conditions affecting the Sarplaninac breed.
Sarplaninacs are commonly healthy dogs. Vet costs aren't expensive with this breed.
Vet Care Frequency
How often does a Sarplaninac need vet visits? Learn about the Sarplaninac's veterinary care requirements.
Rare
The Sarplaninac should have a complete physical check-up at least every 12-18 months (but preferably once per year). If your dog shows any symptoms, call your veterinarian.
Health Problems
What genetic/health problems does the Sarplaninac breed have? What are the health issues and concerns of the Sarplaninac breed? Most common health risks of Sarplaninac:
Hip Dysplasia BloatDrug Sensitivity

Sarplaninac Energy and Activity

Energy Rating
How energetic is a Sarplaninac? Understand daily activity needs of the Sarplaninac breed.
Sarplaninac dogs are high-energy dogs. An active lifestyle makes them happy.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
How much exercise does a Sarplaninac need? How much exercise do Sarplaninac dogs require per day?

Do Sarplaninac dogs need a lot of exercises?

Sarplaninac dogs need a lot of exercises. Long walks should be on a daily schedule. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
Sleeping Need
How much sleep does the Sarplaninac breed need?
Sarplaninac dogs don't need too much sleep. They are energetic and desire to live active life. If you think naps are overrated, this breed can be the best choice for you.

Sarplaninac Diet and Weight Management

Obesity Tendency
Is a Sarplaninac prone to weight gain? Learn about the Sarplaninac's obesity risks.
Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the Sarplaninac's weight, he can easily gain weight. More than one daily walk should be on schedule. To make your dog happy and fit, feed him with quality dry dog food and live an active life together. Try to find the happy medium between exercise and feeding.

If you notice any weight gain, consult your veterinarian and make a diet plan. Reduce unhealthy food and snacks, and measure the Sarplaninac weight regularly.

Food Consumption
How much food does a Sarplaninac need daily? Learn about the Sarplaninac's feeding requirements.
2.5 to 3.5 cups of a high-quality dog food daily, divided into two meals.

Sarplaninac Allergies and Grooming

Allergy Friendliness
Is a Sarplaninac hypoallergenic? Learn about the Sarplaninac's suitability for allergy sufferers.
No
Sarplaninac dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions. Some dog breeds are even considered to higher possibility of an allergic response. Coat type isn't necessarily relevant, because most people are allergic to dander (flakes on the dog's skin) or saliva, not actually to dog hair.
Coat Colors
What colors does a Sarplaninac come in? Discover all possible Sarplaninac color variations.
BlackGray White FawnSable
Grooming Requirements
How much grooming does a Sarplaninac need? Learn about Sarplaninac coat maintenance requirements.
Easy to groom: The Sarplaninac doesn't require a lot of grooming. Seasonal flea treatment is needed, but cutting the dog's hair by a professional groomer isn't necessary.

Ears and eyes should be cleaned regularly to avoid infections. Sarplaninac is a good choice if you don't have the time, skill, or money to take care of a high-maintenance dog.

Recommended for beginners.
Drooling Tendency
Does a Sarplaninac drool a lot? Learn about the Sarplaninac's drooling habits.
The Sarplaninac drools quite a lot, so if you dislike being covered by slobber spots on your clothes, you may want to choose another dog breed. Drooling is the unintentional saliva flowing outside of the mouth. It can be completely normal or a sign of a health problem. Certain dog breeds drool more than others, just like the Sarplaninac.

If you notice any change in your dog's drooling habit, you should contact a vet as soon as possible.

Stinkiness Rating
Does a Sarplaninac smell bad? Learn about the Sarplaninac's natural odor levels.

Low 🔽

The Sarplaninac has a low chance of bad smell. Top reasons for dog stinkiness: infection of bad tooth/ear/skin folds, gas attacks.
Coat Characteristics
What type of coat does a Sarplaninac have? Learn about the Sarplaninac's fur characteristics.
FluffyWaterproof
Bathing Needs
How often does a Sarplaninac need baths? Learn about the Sarplaninac's bathing requirements.
3-4 weeks
More often than average. These dog coats tend to be longer, softer, and oilier than short-haired breeds. While a good bath every now and then is a great way to keep your buddy from becoming overly smelly, be mindful about overbathing.

Bathing will wash away your dog’s natural oils, while a simple brushing every few days should keep them clean.

Shedding Level
How much do Sarplaninac dogs shed? How to control, reduce and prevent the shedding of the Illyrian Shepherd Dog? Do Sarplaninac dogs shed a lot?
Sarplaninac dogs shed moderately. It's a natural process of the hair growth cycle. Regular brushing reduces the amount of hair that sheds. It mostly depends on their health status and breed type.

Sarplaninac Good With

Child Compatibility
Is a Sarplaninac good with children? Learn about the Sarplaninac's behavior around kids of different ages.
Sarplaninac dogs are average friendly dogs towards children.
Pet Compatibility
How well does a Sarplaninac get along with other pets? Discover the Sarplaninac's compatibility with other animals.
Sarplaninac dogs usually don’t get on well with other pets.
Stranger Friendly
Are they aggressive or friendly towards/with strangers? Sarplaninac temperament with other people:
Sarplaninac dogs are not the most stranger-friendly dogs.
Cat Friendly
How well do Sarplaninac dogs get along with cats? Are they good with kittens? What is this fido's temperament with cats? Can they be good with cats? Can the Sarplaninac breed live with a cat?
Sarplaninac dogs are not the most cat-friendly dogs.
Dog Friendly
Is Sarplaninac good with other dogs? Are they dog-friendly dogs? How well do Sarplaninac dogs get along with other dogs?
Sarplaninac dogs are average friendly towards other dogs.
Good For First Time Owners
Is Sarplaninac breed good for first-time owners? Do they make a good dog for novice owners? Is Sarplaninac breed suitable for first-time owners?
Yes
Sarplaninac dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Office Friendly
Are Sarplaninac dogs good office canines? Do Sarplaninac dogs make good office-friendly pets? Can they be office dogs?
No
Sarplaninac is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly
Are they senior citizens friendly dogs? How well do Sarplaninac dogs get along with the elderly people? What is the Illyrian Shepherd Dog temperament with senior people? Are Sarplaninac dogs good for elderly owners?
Sarplaninacs are commonly okay with elderly people.

Sarplaninac As a Working Dog

Service Dog Capability
Can a Sarplaninac be a service dog? Learn about the Sarplaninac's service work potential.

Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog. A service dog is a term used in the USA to refer to any type of assistance dog specifically trained to help people who have disabilities, such as visual impairment, hearing impairments, mental disorders, seizures, mobility impairment, and diabetes. Service dogs are protected under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).

Sarplaninac is not the best breed for service purposes.

Therapy Work Suitability
Is a Sarplaninac good as a therapy dog? Learn about the Sarplaninac's therapy work aptitude.

Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog. A therapy dog is a dog that might be trained to provide affection, comfort, and love to people in hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, hospices, disaster areas, and people with anxiety disorders or autism.

Sarplaninac is not the best breed for therapeutic purposes.

Scent Detection Ability
Is a Sarplaninac good at detection work? Learn about the Sarplaninac's scenting abilities.

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases. A detection dog or sniffer dog is a dog that is trained to use its senses (mostly its smell) to detect substances such as explosives, illegal drugs, wildlife scat, currency, blood, and contraband electronics such as illicit mobile phones.

Sarplaninac is not the best breed for detection purposes.

Search & Rescue Potential
Can a Sarplaninac do search and rescue? Learn about the Sarplaninac's SAR capabilities.

Not really

This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog. The use of dogs in search and rescue (SAR) is a valuable component in wilderness tracking, natural disasters, mass casualty events, and locating missing people.

The Sarplaninac is not the best breed for SAR purposes.

Maritime Work Ability
Is a Sarplaninac good on boats? Learn about the Sarplaninac's maritime capabilities.

Not really

Sarplaninac breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.

Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages. They were typically used for three purposes: as a working dog, a watchdog, and as a companion. A boat dog is a term used to describe a type of dog that was traditionally bred and used as a working dog on boats.

Draft Work Capability
Can a Sarplaninac pull carts? Learn about the Sarplaninac's drafting abilities.

Yes

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. Dogs bred for this work have strong builds and qualities that are needed, strength and determination.

Sarplaninac breed is a good choice for drafting purposes.

Military Service Background
Was a Sarplaninac used in military service? Learn about the Sarplaninac's military history.

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Sarplaninac Reproducibility

Puppy Litter Size
How many puppies does a Sarplaninac usually have? Learn about typical litter sizes.
3-5 puppies
Pregnancy Duration
How long is a Sarplaninac pregnant? Learn about the Sarplaninac's gestation period.

60-64 days

Reproductive cycle of the female Sarplaninac: The first period called Proestrus lasts for about 9 days.

During this time the females start to attract males. You can notice by swelling vulva and bloody discharge.

The second part is the Estrus when the female is receptive for the male. It lasts for about 3 to 11 days.

The sign of the proestrus part is the soft and enlarged vulva. The discharge decreases and lightens in color.

The third part is the Diestrus. Normally, it occurs around day 14. In this period the female’s discharge changes for vivid red and coming to its end. The vulva returns to average, and she will no longer permit mating.

The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time frame between heat periods normally lasts about six months.

Breeding Frequency
How often can a Sarplaninac have puppies? Learn about safe breeding intervals.

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy. It is very important not to buy a dog from a puppy mill, where the needs of the pups and their mothers are ignored. It's an inhumane high-volume dog breeding facility, where puppies born several times a year.

Sarplaninac Recognition

AKC Classification
What AKC group is a Sarplaninac in? Learn about the Sarplaninac's AKC classification.
Not recognized by the American Kennel Club.
FCI Classification
What FCI group is a Sarplaninac in? Learn about the Sarplaninac's international classification.
Not recognized by FCI.
Kennel Club Recognition
Which kennel clubs recognize a Sarplaninac? Learn about the Sarplaninac's official recognition.
American Canine RegistryDog Registry of America Inc.Federation Cynologique InternationaleAmerican Canine Association, Inc.Continental Kennel ClubNational Kennel ClubUnited Kennel Club

Sarplaninac Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Health Concerns: Sarplaninacs are commonly healthy dogs.
  • Grooming Requirements: Easy to groom: The Sarplaninac doesn't require a lot of grooming.
  • Stinkiness Rating: The Sarplaninac has a low chance of bad smell.
  • Watchdog Rating: Sarplaninac dogs are good watchdogs.
  • Good For First Time Owners: Sarplaninac dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
  • Draft Work Capability: A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling.
Cons
  • Allergy Friendliness: Sarplaninac dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Apartment Adaptability: Not an apartment-friendly dog the Sarplaninac breed.
  • Drooling Tendency: The Sarplaninac drools quite a lot, so if you dislike being covered by slobber spots on your clothes, you may want to choose another dog breed.
  • Obesity Tendency: Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the Sarplaninac's weight, he can easily gain weight.
  • Impulse to Wander or Roam: The wanderlust potential of the Sarplaninac is strong enough to escape from home.
  • Cat Friendly: Sarplaninac dogs are not the most cat-friendly dogs.
  • Office Friendly: Sarplaninac is not the best dog breed for office environment.

Sarplaninac History

The Šarplaninac is an ancient Molosser type breed, which can trace its origins back to the mountain region of the South-eastern parts of the Balkans, known as Roman as Illyria, today this region is known as Macedonia, Kosovo, and Albania. The breed was originally bred to be a working dog, guarding the livestock, and shepherding the flocks for many centuries around the farms. Moreover, the dogs were often used to protect the livestock and fight off any predators like wolves, lynxes, and even bears.

The breed is known to be developed more or less naturally, without any serious planning and human intervention. According to some sources, the Šarplaninac is one of the oldest native breeds in the world. Thus, the Šarplaninac’s exact origins and ancestry are largely unknown due to the lack of documentation and records. Although, it is believed by most of the experts, that the Šarplaninac is descended from the ancient Molossian dogs from Greece, and the livestock guarding dogs against Turkey. Given the breed’s large size, their dominant appearance, and natural protective behavior, it is not shocking that the Šarplaninac have also been used by the military in various roles, including patrolling prisons and guarding important areas. Thanks to the breed’s impressive stamina and their tireless working nature, which fascinated their owners for centuries out in the fields, they began to be very popular in the Balkan region.

The FCI recognized the breed relatively early on, in 1939, they registered the Šarplaninac under its former name, Illyrian Shepherd Dog. Later, in 1957 their name was changed to Yugoslavian Shepherd Dog Sharplanina, after the Sharplanina mountain range, where the breed was most commonly found at that time. Captivatingly, the most recent breeding happened in the 1970s, when the process was completely controlled by the state, and every international export was prohibited for the dogs. This practice really limited the dogs’ possibility to become popular overseas. Many sources state that the first specimen of the Šarplaninac exported to the United States of America was brought down from its mountain on top of a mule, although it is difficult to prove, that this theory is true or not.

Nowadays it is still common for dogs to perform all kinds of activities around the farm, including shepherding and guarding roles in their native countries. In the USA and in Canada, the breed remains in rarity, nonetheless, there are some cases where the breed is used to fight off wolves and wild coyotes. Even though the breed is an ancient one, the AKC (American Kennel Club) did not recognize the breed yet, but the UKC (United Kennel Club) registered the Šarplaninac in 1995 and categorized them within their Guardian Dog group.

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Sarplaninac Comments, Reviews and Questions

  • steve k

    Jan 1, 2021, 8:47:58 PM:

    Fantastic dog. Would recommend. Especially to farmers/herders