Overview
The Croatian Sheepdog, or Hrvatski Ovčar, is a medium-sized herding dog of spitz type from the plains of Slavonia. It is always black and has a distinctive wavy or curly coat.
It is a lively, clever worker that wants a job to do. It is one of the few recognised Croatian breeds and remains rare outside its homeland.
History
The origins of the breed are uncertain, but dogs of this kind have long worked on the Baranja and Bačka plains near the Hungarian border. A document from 1374 is said to mention Croatian sheepdogs.
Around 1935 the veterinarian Stjepan Romić began selective breeding of black Slavonian dogs, laying the base of the modern breed. A standard was written in 1951 and the FCI accepted the breed in 1967.
Appearance
The Croatian Sheepdog is a sturdy, slightly rectangular dog with a wedge-shaped head, erect ears and a tail carried over the back or curled. Dogs stand around 45 to 50 cm at the shoulder.
The long coat is wavy or curly over a soft undercoat, with short hair on the face, ears and lower legs. It is always black, with only small white markings tolerated.
Temperament
This is a smart, energetic dog with strong herding instincts and plenty of stamina. It is devoted to its family and watchful with strangers, making it a good guardian.
It learns quickly and enjoys having work to do, but can become bored or noisy without enough activity. Early socialisation helps it stay balanced.
Care and exercise
The breed needs a good amount of daily exercise and mental stimulation, such as herding, agility or long active walks. It is happiest with an active owner and some space.
Brush the coat once or twice a week to prevent tangles, and more often when it sheds.
Health
A generally healthy, hardy working breed. Responsible breeders may screen for hip problems.
