Exploring the World of Dogs in Romania: History, Breeds, and More

Romania, a country with a rich cultural heritage and diverse landscapes, has a complex and fascinating relationship with dogs. From ancient livestock guardians to modern-day strays, dogs have played a significant role in Romanian history and society. This blog dives into the history of dogs in Romania, native Romanian breeds, banned breeds, import and export trends, the most expensive dogs, fascinating facts, famous dogs, and the current dog population.

Check out our Hench Range Muscle And Performance Fuel HERE

The First Dogs in Romania

While pinpointing the exact "first dog" in Romania is impossible due to the ancient origins of canine domestication, archaeological evidence suggests dogs have been present in the region for thousands of years. The area that is now Romania was home to Neolithic cultures as early as 5500 BCE, and dogs likely accompanied these early human settlements as hunting partners, guardians, and companions. The Dacian people, who inhabited the region before Roman conquest in 106 CE, are believed to have used dogs for hunting and guarding livestock, a tradition that persists in Romania’s rugged Carpathian Mountains. These early dogs were likely ancestors of the robust shepherd breeds we associate with Romania today.

Treat your dog to a premium collar and lead at huge discount prices HERE

A Brief History of Dogs in Romania

Dogs have long been integral to Romania’s agricultural and pastoral lifestyle, particularly in the Carpathian Mountains, where they protected livestock from predators like wolves, bears, and lynx. The tradition of transhumance—seasonal movement of livestock between pastures—relied heavily on dogs, particularly native shepherd breeds, to guard flocks. These dogs were bred for strength, courage, and independence, traits still evident in modern Romanian breeds.However, Romania’s dog population faced significant challenges during the communist era (1947–1989). Under Nicolae Ceaușescu’s regime, rapid urbanization forced many rural families into small apartment blocks, leading to the abandonment of pets. Unneutered dogs left on the streets bred uncontrollably, creating a stray dog crisis that persists today. By the early 2000s, Romania had an estimated 600,000 stray dogs, particularly in cities like Bucharest. Controversial laws, such as the 2013 Stray Dogs Euthanasia Law, allowed for the culling of unclaimed strays, sparking debates over animal welfare. Despite efforts by organizations like Vier Pfoten and the Pack Project to implement capture-neuter-release programs, the stray population remains a significant issue

Native Romanian Dog Breeds

Romania is home to four recognized native dog breeds, all developed in the Carpathian Mountains as livestock guardians and watchdogs. These breeds are known for their size, strength, and protective instincts.

Romanian Mioritic Shepherd Dog

Romanian Mioritic Shepherd Dog: Originating in the Sibiu and Brasov regions, this ancient breed traces back to Celtic tribes. Named after the Romanian word “mioară” (young sheep), the Mioritic is a massive, fluffy dog with white, cream, or gray fur. It’s gentle with families but wary of strangers, requiring early socialization.

Carpathian Shepherd Dog: Hailing from the Carpathian-Danube region, this breed is calm, intelligent, and easy to train. With a thick, double-layered coat and a bushy tail, it grows up to 29 inches tall and excels at guarding livestock.

Romanian Raven Shepherd Dog Puppy

Romanian Raven Shepherd Dog (Corb Shepherd): Recognized by the Romanian Kennel Club in 2008, this breed from south-central Romania is known for its striking black coat. It’s courageous, loyal, and used to protect sheep from predators. Ravens wear a “jujău” (a stick hung from a chain) to indicate ownership and deter wildlife hunting.

Bucovina Shepherd

Bucovina Shepherd Dog: The largest of the Romanian breeds, the Bucovina, also known as “Dulău” or “Căpău,” is a gentle giant with a white coat and gray, black, or sable patches. It’s fiercely protective yet affectionate with children, making it a versatile guard dog.

These breeds are well-suited to Romania’s rugged terrain and pastoral traditions but require experienced handlers due to their size and independent nature.

Banned Dog Breeds in Romania

Romania has strict regulations on certain dog breeds deemed dangerous. The following breeds are banned from import, sale, purchase, advertising, or exchange since 2004:

Pitbulls and their mixes

Fila Brasileiros

Dogo Argentinos

Tosa Inus

Bandogs

Boerboels

Pit Bull Fila Tosa

Additionally, breeds like German Shepherds, Doberman Pinschers, Belgian Malinois, Dogo Canarios, Komondors, Kuvasz, and Riesenschnauzers must wear a muzzle in public. These restrictions aim to reduce the risk of dog attacks and control the population of potentially aggressive breeds.

Most Imported Dog Breeds

Romania imports several breeds, often for guarding or companionship.

Popular imported breeds include:

Kangal Shepherd Dogs

Central Asian Shepherd Dogs

Caucasian Shepherd Dogs

These breeds are favored for their guarding abilities, complementing Romania’s native shepherd dogs. Exact data on import numbers is scarce, but these breeds are frequently mentioned in the context of Romania’s livestock protection needs.

Most Exported Dog Breeds

Romania is a significant source of dog exports, particularly rescue dogs. In 2020, Romania exported 32,525 dogs to the UK alone, accounting for 48% of the UK’s total dog imports. Many of these are stray or mixed-breed dogs adopted through rescue organizations like the Pack Project and Wild at Heart Foundation. Native Romanian breeds, such as the Mioritic and Bucovina Shepherds, are less commonly exported due to their rarity and specific needs, but there’s growing interest in these breeds abroad, particularly in Europe.

Most Expensive Dogs in Romania

The cost of dogs in Romania varies widely. Native breeds like the Romanian Mioritic Shepherd and Bucovina Shepherd can be expensive due to their rarity and demand among enthusiasts, with prices ranging from $1,000 to $3,000 USD for a puppy from a reputable breeder. Imported purebreds, such as German Shepherds or Caucasian Shepherds, can also fetch high prices, often $1,500–$4,000 USD, depending on pedigree and training. The cost of dog food, which is often imported and expensive (e.g., $2 per kilogram), adds to the expense of owning high-maintenance breeds.

Countries Romania Imports and Exports Dogs To

Imports: Romania imports dogs primarily from neighboring countries or within the EU, such as Turkey (Kangals) and Russia (Caucasian Shepherds). Specific import data is limited, but these countries are noted for supplying working breeds.

Exports: The UK is the primary destination for Romanian dogs, with 32,525 dogs exported in 2020, many through rescue organizations. Other EU countries, like Germany and the Netherlands, also adopt Romanian strays, though on a smaller scale.

Fascinating Facts About Dogs in Romania

Stray Population: Romania has an estimated 600,000 stray dogs, the largest in Europe, largely due to historical abandonment during communist-era urbanization.

Rabies Control: Romania established one of the world’s first anti-rabies centers in Bucharest in 1888, thanks to scientist Victor Babeș, reflecting early efforts to manage animal-related health risks.

Wolf-Dog Hybrids: A 2018–2020 study found wolf-dog hybrids in the Southern Carpathians, posing a potential threat to the genetic integrity of wild wolf populations.

Legal Requirements:

Working shepherd dogs must wear a “jujău” (a stick or stave around the neck) to indicate ownership and prevent wildlife hunting.

Pet Ownership: Romania has a high per capita dog ownership rate, with 43% of households owning at least one dog in 2022, second only to Hungary in the EU.

Famous Dogs from Romania

While specific famous dogs from Romania are not widely documented, some rescue stories have gained attention:Monica (Romi): A Romanian stray adopted by UK celebrities Sue Moxley and David Van Day, Romi’s story highlights the success of international adoptions facilitated by groups like REAN.

Sage and Huxley: Two Romanian rescue puppies adopted by a UK family, their heartwarming story of sibling loyalty has been shared widely, showcasing the gentle nature of Romanian strays.

Dog Population in Romania

As of 2023, Romania’s pet dog population is approximately 4.2 million, a figure that has remained stable in recent years. This does not include the estimated 600,000 stray dogs, which continue to pose a challenge for animal welfare organizations. Romania ranks high in per capita dog ownership, with 43% of households owning at least one dog, reflecting a strong cultural connection to dogs despite the stray crisis.

Conclusion

Romania’s dogs tell a story of resilience, loyalty, and adaptation. From the majestic native shepherd breeds guarding livestock in the Carpathians to the ongoing struggle with stray populations, dogs are deeply woven into the country’s fabric. While challenges like stray overpopulation and controversial culling laws persist, organizations and advocates are working tirelessly to improve animal welfare through neutering programs and international adoptions. Whether you’re drawn to the unique Romanian breeds or inspired by the stories of rescued strays finding forever homes, Romania’s canine world is one of complexity and hope.If you’re interested in supporting Romania’s dogs, consider donating to organizations like the Pack Project or Wild at Heart Foundation, or explore adopting a Romanian rescue dog to give them a second chance at a loving home