The maremmano-abruzzese breed originates in Italy. There it has been used for centuries to guard livestock (mainly sheep) against wolves, other predators and also thieves. Today livestock guarding dogs are very important, because they make it possible to avoid or reduce the killing of wolves and bears. From the ecological point of view, this is an issue in Italy as well. These dogs are also used to guard domestic yards and property. In Finland maremmano-abruzzese dogs work successfully in the countryside guarding livestock in places where barking – especially at night will not be heard by anyone. The guarding instinct is in the dogs’ genes, and when it is looking after sheep with lambs, maremmano-abruzzese has apparently no tendency to chase the animals. The puppies grow up to protect lambs by following the example of adult dogs. The dogs work as a a pack whose members are normally more or less close relatives. The maremmano-abruzzese values the livestock under its protection and never leaves it unguarded. As a guard, a maremmano-abruzzese forms a strong territorial bond and works extremely effectively. The dog will allow human interruption by a confident person whom the dog trusts and respects.

Normally a maremmano-abruzzese is calm because it is aware of its own strength, self-assurance and precision at work. It has courage and stamina and is able to take decisions, show initiative and take on a great deal of responsibility. All these qualities are needed when the dog is left to guard a pack of sheep on his own. Even if real livestock guarding is a few generations back, a maremmano-abruzzese still tends to guard its territory, it is suspicious towards strangers and self-reliant – never a slave to its master, always maintaining a certain degree of independence. It does obey, but only when it thinks the command is fair and reasonable. While it may not openly show its affection and devotion, its behaviour shows no signs of submissiveness or pretending. Because of all this, a maremmano-abruzzese is not a suitable dog for everybody and certainly not the right choice for somebody who wants a dog that is submissive and absolutely obedient or one that shows excessive affection. Only those who appreciate this dog’s special, half-wild nature can get close to and fully enjoy this wonderful breed.

Human impact on the behaviour of this dog is is remarkable, since nowadays they usually live as family members. Anybody who wants to acquire a maremmano-abruzzese should make a careful study of the temperament of the breed, canine sign language and the basics of the animal learning theory. The socialisation of a puppy needs to be carried out very carefully, since our environment and culture are so different from the dogs’ natural environment among sheep and pastures. If the owner is fair and calm and the relationship between him and the dog is good, a maremmano-abruzzese will make a wonderful guard as well as a pleasant family member.