Croatian Shepherd Dog

Other names: Croatian Sheepdog, Hrvatski Ovcar, Kroatischer Schäferhund

Croatian Shepherd Dog

The Croatian Sheepdog is a loyal, hard-working, and adaptable breed. It’s exclusively bred in its native Croatia, where it’s been working as a farm dog for hundreds of years. The Croatian Sheepdog has a natural instinct for herding livestock, but can also double up as a watchdog when needed. This dog is intelligent, level-headed, and very easy to train. Physically impressive, the Croatian Sheepdog is a natural athlete that combines strength, stamina, and agility. 

Key facts about the Croatian Shepherd Dog

Life expectancy :

7

19

12

14

Temperament :

Affectionate Intelligent

Size :

Origins and history

The Croatian Sheepdog’s origins can be traced back to the 14th century, although some experts suggest they were first developed in the 7th century. According to ancient written documents, the breed has changed very little over the centuries. This is largely due to a lack of crossbreeding, which is a testament to this dog’s natural abilities. A first-rate working dog, the Croatian Sheepdog was used to herd cows, pigs, sheep, and chickens. Due to the nature of its work, the breed tends to form a lifelong bond with a single owner. Dogs who are re-homed or adopted often pine for their former master and it takes them a long time to form new relationships. Due to a shift in agricultural techniques, fewer and fewer sheepdogs are earning their keep in the traditional way. However, many now compete in agility and herding trials. The breed was first registered by the FCI in 1969. 

FCI breed nomenclature

FCI Group

Group 1 - Sheepdogs and Cattledogs (except Swiss Cattledogs)

Section

Section 1 : Sheepdogs

Physical characteristics of the Croatian Shepherd Dog

Adult size

Female : Between 16 and 20 in

Male : Between 16 and 20 in

Weight

Female : Between 33 and 44 lb

Male : Between 33 and 44 lb

Coat colour

Black
White

Type of coat

Long

Eye colour

Brown

Description

Medium sized. Compact build. Rustic, rugged appearance. Deep chest and a high-head carriage. Small, triangle shaped head with a fox-like expression. Curly coat and long, fluffy tail. 

Good to know

This dog needs lots of physical and mental stimulation. If you’re not keeping them as a working dog, then you must find novel ways to keep them satisfied. 

If their needs are not being met, there’s a very high chance they’ll develop serious behavioural issues. 

They require a strong, confident owner. These dogs thrive off structure and routine.

Temperament

  • 100%

    Affectionate

    These dogs have a real need for human companionship; they also like lots of affection. This is a warm-hearted dog that loves to feel close to its human family.

  • 66%

    Playful

    This is an alert and active breed with a seemingly endless reserve of energy. They love to run, chase, and play. 

  • 66%

    Calm

    Definitely not a calm breed. The Croatian Sheepdog is full of energy, very vocal, and extremely excitable. 

  • 100%

    Intelligent

    A highly intelligent dog. In the right hands, they are easy to train.

  • 33%

    Hunter

    More of a herding dog than a hunting dog. Still, they have a natural instinct to chase and herd other animals.

  • 66%

    Fearful / wary of strangers

    Croatian Sheepdogs are extremely loyal to one owner; they’re not very keen on new people. They tend to view strangers with suspicion.

  • 33%

    Independent

    Like most intelligent herding breeds, the Croatian Sheepdog is a strong-minded, independent animal. This is what makes them such excellent working dogs, but it’s a trait that must be harnessed in the right way. 

    Behaviour of the Croatian Shepherd Dog

    • 33%

      Tolerates solitude

      This dog has a deep-seated need for human company. They work and live very closely with their masters and will struggle if left alone for long periods of time. This can cause prolonged periods of barking and destructive behaviour.

    • 100%

      Easy to train / obedience

      This dog has a strong work ethic and a natural desire to please. Very trainable in the right hands. 

    • 100%

      Barking

      A very vocal breed, especially during the first few years. Will bark if they are bored, frustrated, or over-excited. A poorly socialised Croatian Sheepdog will also bark at strangers. 

    • 66%

      Tendency to run away

      Very unlikely to run away.

    • 100%