Is the Maremma for you?

Is the Maremma temperament what you want?
Maremmas are large, independent guardian dogs. They will treat you as an equal rather than a master. They have tremendous character and a sense of humour but they can also be stubborn and need to be trained with firmness and respect. If you like a dog to be quick to obey and always do as it is told without question, then another breed will be more suitable for you. Their guarding instincts are still strong and they will protect you and your property from all intruders - including strangers who may be visiting your home so all strangers must be introduced properly. Are you prepared for this guarding instinct and able to manage it appropriately? Be assured - you cannot train a Maremma not to guard!

Is your lifestyle suitable for a Maremma?
Maremmas are typically aloof with strangers, but they bond with their family and want to be with them. If you work or have an active social life outside your home, how long will your Maremma be on its own? Are there any other animals in the household - will they accept a new arrival? Are you houseproud? Remember Maremmas moult at least once a year and your house will be covered with white hair!

Do you have the right environment for a Maremma?
Maremmas are large dogs and need space. Do you have an enclosed garden where they will be able to play and relax safely, and either your own land or suitable exercise areas where your Maremma can run free? Is your car big enough to include the dog on trips out? Maremmas can be very vocal, barking to warn you of what is going on nearby - is this likely be a problem in your situation?

Do you have time for a Maremma?
Maremmas will need around an hour's exercise each day, as well as training and socialization. We strongly recommend training classes and daily socialisation trips for youngsters - do you have time?

Are you prepared for a dog of this size?
Maremmas are large, strong dogs - males can weigh over 100lbs. They can knock over small children (or adults!) unintentionally. Can you cope with a large, possibly boisterous dog?

Can you afford a Maremma?
Not simply the cost of a puppy or an adult dog, but food, suitable bedding, preventative medicine such as vaccination and worming, vet bills, insurance etc. With a large breed everything costs more!

Does everyone in the family want a Maremma
A Maremma will be part of your life for up to 14 years so it is important that everyone wants the dog. In particular, a dog bought for children may still be fit and well long after the children have left home. Can you provide a home for life?

If you have never met an adult Maremma, please try to do so before making up your mind. They have a unique character which is best appreciated by getting to know one. We will be happy to try to help you find someone with a Maremma that you could visit.

This focuses on Maremmas as companions as that is the norm in the UK. For more information on Maremmas as working dogs and more about having companion Maremmas check out our Resources page.

Site design and content
by Selladore © 20052006

No text or images from this site may be reproduced in any form, except for personal individual use, without our permission. If you wish to use any part of this site please contact us.

Last updated January 2006