Two versions, both self-cleaning

Source: L. Van Genechten, Woef. Het magazine van de hondenvriend, 37/432, 68-70.

For the moment there are two types of Maremmano-Abruzzese. As is the case with many breeds, show and working type have grown apart. The working type is less elegant, heavier and plumper. Some of the greatest Italian stock-breeders created their own and more elegant show type. Unfortunately the typical features of the CPMA's head have been lost in the process. By over-emphasizing show qualities and failing to let the dogs excercise, some of these "showers" tend

to have a somewhat difficult character. This isn't due to the dogs themselves, but rather their upbringing. A CPMA needs a lot of excercise and space. It basically isn't a dog for small kennels. It should be able to play and romp.

In spite of his imposing aspect (he measures 60-70 centimeters and he can reach 30 to 45 kilograms) the CPMA lives sparingly. He eats irregularly and is definitely not a meat lover. Like other sheepdogs the CPMA prefers to live outside, during both summer and winter. His thick white fur resists all inclemencies. Moreover, because of his thick under coat the CPMA never gets dirty. He adores rain and snow because they not only grant him a welcome refreshment, but wash his fur at the same time.

The CPMA's original function, the autonomous care of the herds in the pastures (he was indeed abandoned with the herds), makes him a dog not to hold in leash. He prefers to run freely in his domain. It is wise to foresee a strong fence around the garden. After all the CPMA has a roving nature. When he succeeds in leaving his own domain, he cannot resist the temptation to run off and see things elsewhere. This doesn't mean however that he will get lost. The CPMA always returns home. His primitive instinct also makes him extremely sensitive to the justice. It is therefore impossible to him to live with an unjust master. In spite of his independent and autonomous character, the CPMA submits

without problems to his master, in as much as he is consequent.

CPMA's are real children's friends. They will participate in their games and will protect them, if necessary. The CPMA is often used as a watching dog. Yet he isn't aggressive at all, nor is he a brawler. He will approach any intruder and will turn quietly around him, thus forcing him, it or her to remain to a certain distance. By his

attitude alone he indicates that it would be better to seek out other places. Strange people are seldomly taken into confidence. This sometimes creates the false impression that the CPMA is nervous. In front of fellow sheepdogs he will also take a waiting attitude. He prefers to avoid unpleasant encounters. This howver doesn't prevent him from defending his family, house and garden until the end. The CPMA is too independent to be raised completely. He doesn't allow himself to be reduced into slavery. He is however willing to do about anything for his master, as long as he is treated with respect and fairness.

The CPMA possesses a kind of primitive instinct that makes that he has the natural habit of being considered by humans as their equal. He considers men as friends and not as "masters". The CPMA is not a dog for people that want a big submitted and servile dog. He can prove to be a real friend and will return as much friendship as he will receive, under the condition that he is treated correctly and consequently. Obedience practice is feasible. Indulgence must however also be on the list of the features of the owners of a CPMA. The CPMA is in se always a dog who had to be capable to keep and to protect the herds autonomously. This independence is always present and cannot be disregarded.

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