Maremma Sheepdog Training

Do you have a Maremma Sheepdog that needs some training help? Natalie from Crazy Kind Calm dog training can help!

With over 900 dogs trained across the Macedon Ranges, Natalie understands the unique personality and needs that come with this wonderful breed.

Maremma Sheepdogs are large, independent livestock guardian dogs bred to protect flocks. They're calm, loyal, and deeply bonded to their family — but their guarding instinct and independent nature set them apart from more biddable breeds.

Common Maremma Sheepdog traits and training needs

• Strong guardian instinct — will bark at and challenge perceived threats to their territory
• Independent thinkers bred to make decisions without human direction — can seem stubborn
• Naturally wary of strangers and may be suspicious of visitors to the home
• Can be dog-reactive, particularly with unfamiliar dogs entering their space
• Nocturnal barking is a common issue — they were bred to guard at night
• Large and powerful, requiring early lead training before they reach full size

Maremma owners understand they have a guardian, not a typical pet dog. Your Maremma probably patrols the fence line, barks at anything that moves after dark, and positions themselves between your family and strangers. If your Maremma is ignoring your recall, challenging the delivery driver, or barking through the night at possums, that's their breeding. Working with their instincts rather than against them is the key.