Sarplaninac

The Sarplaninac (pronounced "shar-pla-NEE-natz") is a medium-sized shepherd dog from the Balkans.

Appearance
Stands 22 to 24 inches (56-61 cm) in height and weighs 77 to 99 pounds (35-45 kg). In colour it is tan, iron grey, white or black. The coat is dense and medium in length; it can be rough or smooth.

Temperament
The temperament of the breed is described as independent, aloof with outsiders, and calm until a threat to the flock presents itself, when suddenly the arplaninac erupts into swift ferocity. The breed has a highly protective nature.

History
The name comes from the ar mountain range (?ar Planina) spanning the border of the Macedonia and Kosovo, where he is typically found accompanying and guarding the great sheep flocks as they graze.

Working life
The breed can also work cattle and serve as a guard dog; it was bred and used as a military dog under Marshal Josip Broz Tito and is still used so by the Army of Serbia and Montenegro. The arplaninac is spreading through ranches in North America as a serious sheep herding dog and a livestock guardian. Predator problems are said to be greatly diminished once a arplaninac takes responsibility for a flock; the arplaninac is one of a few rare dog breeds which can win a fight with a wolf or a bear.