Overview
The Sardinian Shepherd Dog, also called the Fonni's Dog, is an ancient landrace from the island of Sardinia. It has long worked as a herder, catcher and guardian of livestock.
It is not recognised by the FCI but has been accepted by the Alianza Canina Latina. A large founder base means it is relatively free from inbreeding.
History
Depictions go back to at least the mid-nineteenth century, though the dog itself is likely far older. The population was built from about 170 dogs gathered in rural inner Sardinia.
The large number of founders gave good genetic variety, which has helped it avoid many inherited problems common in breeds started from few dogs.
Appearance
Males stand about 56 to 60 cm at the withers and females are a couple of centimetres shorter. The coat is rough and may be grey, black, brindle, brown or white, with a coarse outer layer and a dense woolly undercoat. Males carry a mane around the neck.
The face has amber eyes set frontally, giving a distinctive "monkey-like" look, with longer hair around the eyes and a beard at the muzzle. About 30 percent have a natural bobtail, and some are short-coated.
Temperament
This is a working dog with a fiery expression and a strong sense of duty. It is alert, protective of its flock and territory, and independent in its decisions.
Care and exercise
It needs space, work and regular activity, and is not suited to idle city life. Brush the rough coat weekly, more often during shedding. Early socialisation and confident handling are important.
Health
The wide founder base means the breed should have good genetic diversity and relatively little inbreeding-related illness.
