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Carpathian Wolfdog |
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He is not recognized by the F.C.I. |
Origin |
Romania | |
Translation |
Francis Vandersteen | |
This breed is also known as |
Romanian Wolfdog
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It's debatable whether the Carpathian Wolfdog is really a breed, or simply a term used to describe any cross between a dog and a wolf. To add further confusion, this name is sometimes used for the Romanian Ciobanesti Carpatini and Bukovina Shepherd, as well as for other breeds from the region. Unlike the Czech or Saarlos Wolfdog breeds, the Carpathian Wolfdog was not developed by man to be improved like the German Shepherd or any other breed. The Carpathian Wolfdog of ancient times is, according to some, the result of the natural crossing of Armenian Gamprs and Balkan Molossers with Carpathian mountain wolves. Female shepherd dogs were said to have united with the wolves, and their puppies were kept and bred by a few curious peasants, who then multiplied them to their shepherds. Over the centuries, these dogs proved to be excellent workers, used as shepherds, guards and hunters. This led to the introduction of Wolfdog blood into many Romanian dogs, the effects of which are still being felt today. The modern incarnation of this Romanian breed is rare, but still present in sufficient numbers in its homeland. Like most wolf hybrids, the Carpathian Wolfdog can be shy and independent, clinging only to its master and being unfriendly to strangers. There are some reports of efforts by breeders to standardize the Roumian Wolfdog and obtain official breed identification. However, there is still a wide variety of types, including bearded dogs and erect-eared specimens. The hard coat is accepted in all wolf colors, from white to black. Average height is around 71 centimetres. |