In the UK Maremmas rarely come into rescue. Some are returned to their breeders and rehomed directly
from their breeder. A few are taken in through rescue which is run by the
breed clubs. Sadly in other parts of the world, notably Australia and the US, rescue is becoming a serious problem, with Maremmas turning up in general animal shelters and being fostered
by a network of committed breed lovers.
Maremmas come into rescue for many reasons, many of which are not the dog's "fault" at all. These include one or more of the following:
- a change in home circumstances: a family needs to move and can't take the dog; divorce; serious illness in the
family; a new baby (even though Maremmas are usually excellent with children); bereavement.
- the dog was not what was expected: too big, too hairy; too energetic, not obedient enough
- complaints from neighbours: mainly about barking but occasionally just having a big dog that can be intimidating
- a working dog that doesn't work well with livestock
- growling, nipping, biting
- abuse or neglect
- irresponsible breeding and sales through petshops
Much of this comes down to owners being unprepared for a Maremma. Barking is normal behaviour for a Maremma
but their barking is not normally excessive unless the dog is located in a very busy area where there is a
constant traffic of people, or it has not been taught appropriate levels. The irresistable puppy grows into
a big dog; it will shed hair; it does need exercise; it does need some effort in training.
Even working dogs must be trained: a pup cannot simply be put in a field with sheep and expected to work.
Aggression may be the result of abuse or mismanagement or, occasionally, illness or bad breeding. In some cases these dogs
are not safe to rehome; in others they can be placed (with full disclosure) with experienced owners - sometimes a change
of circumstance can be all that the dog needs.
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Last updated January 2006
