Description: The Sarplaninac, also known as the Yugoslavian Shepherd Dog, is a moderately large dog that is commonly used as a livestock guardian. It is loyal, intelligent, devoted to its family and suspicious of strangers, fairly easy to train and very protective. Because the Sarplaninac is used to guard livestock in the mountains of the former Yugoslavia, it makes a great watchdog. It is a very intelligent, independent and courageous breed that will not back down from any foe. However, they are lovable and devoted to those they consider family. The Sarplaninac reaches about 28’’ in height and weighs between 90 and 140 pounds. They have a thick, somewhat long (about 4’’) coat that can be either smooth or coarse. The Sarplaninac's coat can be from oatmeal to iron grey to almost black in color. Because of their thick coats, Sarplaninacs often appear larger than they actually are. The Sarplaninac's ears hang close to their cheeks and their eyes are almond-shaped and shades of brown. Sarplaninacs have muscular legs and bodies, with a thick, muscular tail that tapers at the tip. The Sarplaninac breed has been guarding livestock for thousands of years. It originated in the mountains of south-eastern Yugoslavia, now known as Serbia and Macedonia. The name Sarplaninac comes from the Sara Mountain range from which they originate. Many people believe the Sarplaninac descended from the Molossian hounds and livestock guarding dogs of Tibet. Until 1970, it was illegal to export Sarplaninacs from Yugoslavia. Since then, more and more Sarplaninacs have arrived in the United States and Canada, both for use as livestock guardians and as pets. The United Kennel Club recognized the Sarplaninac in 1995, while the CKC has recognized the breed since 1951. For more information, contact: Era’s Fifth Line Kennel (416) 587-6345