Šarplaninac
An old Balkan mountain guardian—serious and fearless.
Behavior traits
Scores from 1 to 5 reflect breed averages; every animal has its own personality.
General care guide: Dogs
Before you bring a dog home
A dog is a 10–15 year commitment. Match the breed to your space, schedule and budget, not just its looks.
Feeding
Puppies eat 3–4 meals a day, adults two. Use a quality food with meat as the first ingredient. Never feed chocolate, grapes, onions, garlic, xylitol or cooked bones.
Vaccines & health
Core vaccines start at 6–8 weeks with yearly boosters; rabies from 12 weeks is essential in Iran. Deworm every three months and protect against fleas and ticks.
Training & exercise
Reward-based training works best. Socialise puppies between 3 and 14 weeks. Most dogs need at least two walks a day; working breeds need much more.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a Šarplaninac live?
A Šarplaninac typically lives about 11-13 years, and good nutrition and regular checkups can extend that.
Is a Šarplaninac good for apartments?
A Šarplaninac needs more space and lots of exercise; a small apartment isn’t ideal.
Is a Šarplaninac good with children?
A Šarplaninac needs extra training and supervision in homes with young children.