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Maremma Sheepdogs are herding dogs who are fierce enough to fend off nearly any predator. They like to make their own decisions and are very protective of their human and animal friends. This breed is not for beginners, and although they are sometimes kept as a pet, they're best suited to a family who will let them fulfill their intended purpose of guarding a flock. Full-grown, they typically weigh 65-100 pounds and stand 23-29 inches tall.

Maremma Sheepdogs are generally good with kids, especially when raised together. Maremma Sheepdogs fit best in rural homes where they are allowed to guard a flock in a rural area where no one will mind their excessive barking. Maremma Sheepdogs are protective of the children in their owner's family, but they do not enjoy being poked and prodded by toddlers, so supervision is suggested. They're relatively quiet and don't bark much.

Maremma sheepdogs thrive when they are tending to their flock, and they need time to run free in open space to be happy. A simple walk once a day will not do; they need lots of stimulation - both mental and physical. You must always make sure your Maremma Sheepdog understands that you are in charge during exercise time, otherwise they will think they’re the boss. Overall, their exercise needs are moderate.

Maremma Sheepdogs have a dense coat that sheds once in the spring and once in the fall. If your Maremma Sheepdog is not exposed to the weather every day, you’ll want to brush them once or twice a week and more often when they’re shedding. Dogs that are used as livestock guardians do not require extensive care for their coats. Grooming-wise, this breed is moderate.

Maremma Sheepdogs are best suited for a house with a good-sized yard. Maremma Sheepdogs fit best in rural homes where they are allowed to guard a flock in a rural area where no one will mind their excessive barking. If you do not keep other animals, this breed requires a home with a large, fenced-in yard. They are fairly easy to train.