Also known as the Ciobanesc Romanesc de Bucovina, Ciobanesc de Bucovian, Romanian Bukovina Sheepdog, Boukovina Wolfdog, Bukovinac, and the Bucovina Sheepdog, the Bukovia Sheepdog is a gentle and loyal breed. But how do you know whether you are ready to purchase a pet and if this breed is right for you? This information is absolutely necessary in making the decision to purchase a pet.
History
The origin of the Bukovina Sheepdog can be traced back to 18th century Romania. Enthusiasts believe the breed to have descended from various Mastiff breeds, and to be among the oldest of all dogs from the region, though this has never been proven scientifically or otherwise.
Throughout its history, the Bukovina Sheepdog has been most commonly used for herding and protecting cattle, and as a watch and guard dog, proving its superior abilities to work while providing protection and companionship.
Today, while the Bukovina Sheepdog has attained a regional popularity as both a working and companion dog, the breed remains very rare outside of Romania and the Ukraine.
Personality Traits
Best known for its loyal and protective nature, the Bukovina Sheepdog is willing to do anything necessary in order to protect its owner and territory. These dogs are highly intelligent, yet stubborn and somewhat independent, creating difficulty in training. As a pet, the Bukovina Sheepdog is obedient, loyal, loving, and affectionate. This large breed is not suited for full-time indoor or apartment living, as they enjoy spending time outdoors and taking long walks.
Train-ability
Due to its stubborn and independent attitude, the Bukovina Sheepdog can prove quite challenging to train. These dogs are known for being especially difficult to housebreak, and growing bored with repetitive exercises and tasks.
Establishing immediate dominance, trust, and respect is key to successfully training the Bukovina Sheepdog. This breed requires an experienced, patient, and confident handler with a stern and serious approach to repetitive exercises and tasks.
Benefits and Disadvantages of the Breed
There are many benefits to owning a Bukovina Sheepdog. This active breed is always on the go, and often quite amusing and entertaining to watch while at play. When properly socialized from a young age, the Bukovina Sheepdog gets along well with children and other pets, known for its gentle approach to small children. These dogs are protective and territorial, making amazing watch and guard dogs, by announcing the arrival of guests and unwanted visitors, and serving as a deterrent to would-be intruders. The Bukovina Sheepdog is obedient, loyal, loving, and affectionate, making an excellent working dog, companion, and family pet alike.
Unfortunately, there are also disadvantages to owning a Bukovina Sheepdog. These energetic dogs require large amounts of daily exercise and room to run and play, especially when under two years of age. Anyone wishing to purchase this breed lacking the adequate amount of time and space to dedicate to the dog is strongly advised against doing so. A Bukovina Sheepdog not receiving the proper amount of exercise and space will often act out by destroying property, chewing, barking, whining, and ignoring basic training such as housebreaking.
The Bukovina Sheepdog has a strong instinct to herd and will occasionally indulge in a good chase. When on the run, these large dogs are surprisingly quick, and may pose a threat to other animals, neighborhood pets, and small woodland creatures. The Bukovina Sheepdog must be leashed or properly secured at all times when outdoors.
This breed’s thick and gorgeous coat requires almost constant attention such as brushing and grooming in order to prevent matting and maintain its attractive appearance.
As previously mentioned, the Bukovina Sheepdog remains rather rare outside of Romania and the Ukraine, and can prove quite difficult to obtain. Individuals seeking to purchase this breed often encounter such challenges as inability to locate a breeder, high prices, and being placed on long waiting lists.
Common Health Concerns
While the Bukovina Sheepdog is typically known as a healthy and hearty breed, they do suffer from a few health problems, including: hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, patellar luxation – dislocation of the knee, congenital heart defects, chronic ear infection, food allergies, obesity, and bloat.
Now that you know all about the breed, do you think you are ready to own a Bukovina Sheepdog? Remember, purchasing a pet is a big decision and should be discussed thoroughly and seriously with your entire family.
Sources:
http://www.heydogs.com/b/bucovina-sheepdog.html
http://www.greatdogsite.com/breeds/details/nukovina_sheepdog
