Home
/
Dog Breeds
/
Croatian Sheepdog
Croatian Sheepdog
Origin
Croatia
Size
Medium Breed
Ideal Space
House with backyard
Ideal Weather
10º-25ºC
Life Expectancy
12-14Â years
Cost of buying
₹ 40,000 - ₹ 60,000
Top 5 Traits
Intelligent
Athletic
Playful
Energetic
Loyal
Avg Monthly Expenses
₹ 4,650 - ₹ 6,600
Croatian Sheepdog: An Overview
The Croatian Sheepdog, also called the Hrvatski Ovcar, is a multi-talented and adaptable herding dog breed that has been around for generations. They are a medium in size with pointed ears and a wolf-like appearance. They are high-energy dogs and would do best in homes that provide them with ample space and stimulation.
According to Wag, the breed has historic roots with documentation dating as far as the 14th century. Systematic selection breeding of the Croatian Sheepdog was first conducted by Dr. Stjepan Romic in 1935. Recognition for the breed was provided by the Federation Cynologique Internationale in 1969 and by the United Kennel Club of England in 2006.
Life expectancy of a Croatian Sheepdog
According to the Spruce Pets, the average life span of a Croatian Sheepdog is 12 - 14 years.
Croatian Sheepdog: Physical Traits
- Height - 16-21 Inches
- Weight - 13-20kgs
- Coat - Double Coated with a wavy/curly soft and thick top coat
- Coat Colour - Black
Croatian Sheepdog: Personality
- Highly Intelligent and easy to train
- Loyal and quickly form strong bonds with their humans
- According to the Spruce Pets, they thrive under strong leadership from their humans
- They make excellent watchdogs.
- Require exercise for at least an hour a day. This helps them maintain a calm disposition throughout the day.
Characteristics
Barking
Quiet
Loud
Temperament with Kids
Aggressive
Friendly
Playfulness
Silent
Very Playful
Friendliness
Not Friendly
Super Friendly
Compatibility with other dogs
Aggressive
Friendly
Need for attention
Independent
Very Needy
Monthly Expenses
What is the price of a Croatian Sheepdog?
Cost of buying
₹ 40,000 - ₹ 60,000
A Croatian Sheepdog costs anywhere between ₹ 40,000 - ₹ 60,000 in India. The price varies based on their availability, pedigree, and the reputation of a breeder.
There are two ways to get a Croatian Sheepdog home. They are: buying and adopting.
- Buying: Look for ethical and trustworthy breeders who care about their animals and prioritize their health and well-being.
- Adoption: Choose adoption over buying, as it gives a dog in need a chance to have a loving home.
Here are some of the breeds that are similar to the Croatian Sheepdog
Belgian Shepherd | Icelandic Sheepdog | Maremma Sheepdog | Border Collie
Prerequisites to pet a Croatian Sheepdog
Access to Groomer
Access to Veterinary
Financial Capability
Appropriate Climate
Lifestyle Compatibility
Considering getting a Croatian Sheepdog?
It can be both thrilling and overwhelming to bring a new dog into your home. Here are some guidelines to get you started on the journey:
- Research: Do your homework thoroughly to learn about the breed and its needs.
- Trustworthy Breeders: Do a background check of the breeders to ensure they follow ethical breeding practices. This is because some breeders may prioritise greed over the well-being of their animals.
- Visit: Before deciding on a pup, visit the breeder or adoption center to see the animals. If possible, engage with them to learn about their personality and determine whether they would get along with your family.
- Prepare: To ensure your new pet has a warm welcome, stock up on essential supplies like a food bowl, bed, and treats.
Croatian Sheepdog: Nutrition Guide
Monthly Food Expenses
₹ 2,250 - ₹ 3,000
Calories per day
Puppies:Â 1200 kcal
Adults:Â 1500 kcal
Essential Nutrients
Protein
Fats
Carbohydrates
Minerals
Vitamins
Fibre
List of foods
Chicken
Dry Dog Food
Fresh Meat
Mutton
Fresh Fish
Fruits
Home made meals
- The Croatian Sheepdog is an active breed and requires a balanced diet consisting of high-quality protein.
- Protein helps in muscle building and provides them with energy.
- Always remember to customize your dog's diet based on their age, exercise levels, and health condition.
- As per Prodog Raw, animal-based saturated fats enhance the flavor and consistency of your dog's food and facilitate the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K.
- Treats are a great way to reward your dogs, but make sure they are less than 10% of their daily caloric consumption.
Breakdown of Macro-nutrients
Guide To Choosing the Right Food For Croatian Sheepdogs
- Protein - High-quality meat options like chicken, turkey, lamb, and fish.
- Fatty acids - Essential omega acids help maintain a good coat and overall health.
- Carbohydrates - Vegetables and berries like broccoli, carrots, cauliflower, blueberries, strawberries, etc.
- Hydration - Ensure that they get ample hydration, as it regulates digestion and organ function.
Croatian Sheepdog: List of Foods to Avoid
Avoid anything with these ingredients
Alcohol
Avocados
Grapes
Onions
Garlic
Milk Products
Coffee / Tea
- Do not feed them table scraps, as they should not be fed food high in sugar and salt.
- Stay away from common human foods that are toxic to dogs like chocolate, onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, etc.
Health care overview of Croatian Shepherd dog breed
Avg Monthly Expenses
₹ 1,200 - ₹ 1,800
Common Health Issues
Bloat
Heartworm
Hip Dysplasia
Canine distemper
Leptospirosis
Lyme disease
Parasites
Parvovirus
Well being
Exercise
Bonding
Games
Agility Training
Hiking
Socialization
Energy Level
High
Exercise routine
60 - 90 minutes
Recognising Stress
Changes in appetite
Excessive Barking
Pacing
Excessive Panting
Reluctance to move
Increased laziness
Croatian Sheepdog Health Concerns: What to Watch Out For
While Croatian Sheepdogs are generally healthy, they are prone to certain health conditions.
- Hip Dysplasia: It is a hereditary joint issue that affects their mobility and joint function. It occurs when the hip joint doesn’t develop properly, leading to discomfort and reduced movement. Some of the symptoms are limping and difficulty getting up. Take them to a veterinarian if you notice these symptoms. The vet may prescribe pain-relieving medications to ease their discomfort.
- Patellar Luxation: It is a common condition that causes the kneecap to shift from its original position. As per PetMD, some of the symptoms to look out for are a limp and a hunched lower back. Veterinarians may diagnose your dog with the help of a physical examination or an X-ray (in extreme cases).
Vaccination details
Growth Stage
Core Vaccines
6-8 Weeks
Distemper, Parvovirus
10-12 Weeks
Canine Parainfluenza, Canine Hepatitis
14-16 Weeks
Rabies
Annually
Rabies, Distemper, Parvovirus, Adenovirus
Care for senior Croatian Sheepdogs
An ageing Croatian Sheepdog requires its routine to be adjusted with its evolving needs.
- Choose high-protein and low-calorie options. It helps maintain muscle and keeps them from gaining weight.
- Consult with your vet and include joint supplements in daily meals. They can help relieve stiffness and maintain mobility.
- Schedule regular check-ups with the vet, as it can help catch age-related problems early.
- Keep them mobile by offering low-impact activities. Short walks and gentle play reduce the stress on the joints when compared to high-intensity exercises.
- Ensure you keep them comfortable and independent. Keep food, water, and beds in places that are easy to reach.
Croatian Sheepdog: Grooming Guide
Avg Monthly Expenses
₹ 1,200 - ₹ 1,800
Shedding Level
Moderate Shedding
Hygienic Checklist
Bathing
Brushing
Ear Cleaning
Nail Trimming
Teeth Care
Benefits of Grooming
Cleanliness
Low Shedding
Odourless
Prevents Bad Breath
Prevents infections
Quality of life
- Coat Care: Because their coat is made to naturally repel dirt, Croatian sheepdogs don't require a lot of grooming. Even while they do shed, it's not excessive. Brush them once a week to get rid of knots, dead hair, and debris from their coat.
- Ear Care: Periodically cleaning their ears with a soft cloth is a good idea. You should watch for any unusual discharges or redness, as these could indicate a serious infection.
- Dental Care: It is a great practice to brush your dog’s teeth every day. According to the Spruce Pets, you should brush the teeth of your Croatian Sheepdog once a week minimum.
Compare with similar breeds
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Croatian Sheepdogs be raised in apartments?
No, Croatian Sheepdogs are active dogs and require lots of space and stimulation. A large house with a garden or a backyard is recommended.
Do Croatian Sheepdogs require a lot of exercise?
Yes, Croatian Sheepdogs are high-energy dogs and require a lot of exercise.
Do Croatian Sheepdogs require a lot of grooming?
No, Croatian Sheepdogs are not high maintenance. Brushing their coat once a week is enough to keep their fur healthy.
