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Maremma and Abruzzes Sheepdog vs Poodle

Discover the differences between Maremma and Abruzzes Sheepdog and Poodle to make the best choice for your situation.

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Maremma and Abruzzes Sheepdog
Italy

Maremma and Abruzzes Sheepdog

Working Group
Large

Loyal, protective, and independent, this breed excels as a guardian for livestock and family alike. Renowned for their courage and calm demeanor, they thrive with purpose and space.

Poodle
Germany/France

Poodle

Non-Sporting Group
Medium

Elegant, intelligent, and highly trainable, this breed stands out for its lively spirit and loyal companionship. Their hypoallergenic coat and playful personality make them ideal family pets.

Quick comparison

Size:

Large

Male:

35–45 kg

Coat:

Dense double coat, harsh texture

Lifespan:

11–13 years

Female:

30–40 kg

Energy:

High energy

Size:

Medium

Male:

20–32 kg

Coat:

Curly, dense

Lifespan:

12–15 years

Female:

18–27 kg

Energy:

High energy

Personality & behavior

Compare the personality traits and behavioral characteristics of both breeds.

Maremma and Abruzzes Sheepdog

Friendliness
3/5

Wary with strangers, loyal to known people

Intelligence
4/5

Quick learner, independent problem solver

Energy Level
3/5

Moderate exercise needs, enjoys regular activity

Playfulness
2/5

Not highly playful, prefers purposeful work

Adaptability
3/5

Adjusts to rural settings better than urban

Poodle

Friendliness
5/5

Warm and sociable with family and guests

Intelligence
5/5

Highly intelligent and quick to learn commands

Energy Level
4/5

Needs regular activity and enjoys exercise

Playfulness
5/5

Loves games and interactive playtime

Adaptability
5/5

Easily adjusts to new environments and routines

Care needs

Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements

Maremma and Abruzzes Sheepdog

Grooming:
Average grooming needed (2–3 times weekly)
Exercise:
90–120 minutes daily
Shedding:
Seasonal shedding
Trainability:
Learns with consistency
Climate tolerance:
Tolerates cold well
Health concerns:

Hip dysplasia, entropion

Poodle

Grooming:
High grooming needs (at least weekly)
Exercise:
60–90 minutes daily
Shedding:
Light shedding
Trainability:
Highly trainable
Climate tolerance:
Comfortable in temperate climates
Health concerns:

Hip dysplasia, Addison’s disease

Suitability

How well each breed fits different living situations and families

Maremma and Abruzzes Sheepdog

First-time Owner
2/5

Challenging choice

Needs experienced handling due to independence and strong guarding instincts

Apartment Living
1/5

Not suitable

Requires space and is prone to barking in confined environments

Active Lifestyle
4/5

Good fit

Enjoys outdoor activities and benefits from regular exercise

Kids
2/5

Cautious around kids

Protective nature may be overwhelming for small children without supervision

Multiple Pets
2/5

Potential challenges

May show dominance or territorial behavior with other pets

Being Left Alone
1/5

Not recommended

Dislikes being alone and can develop behavioral issues if left for long periods

Poodle

First-time Owner
5/5

Great choice

Intelligent and eager to please, Poodles are easy for beginners to train and manage.

Apartment Living
4/5

Highly suitable

Poodles adapt well to apartment life if given daily exercise and mental stimulation.

Active Lifestyle
5/5

Perfect fit

Their energy and love for activity make them great companions for active households.

Kids
5/5

Very friendly

Poodles are gentle and patient with children when socialized from a young age.

Multiple Pets
4/5

Gets along well

Poodles usually coexist peacefully with other pets, especially if socialized early.

Being Left Alone
2/5

Prone to anxiety

Poodles can develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods regularly.

Breed strengths

What each breed excels at and their best qualities

Maremma and Abruzzes Sheepdog

  • Independent problem solver in guarding tasks
  • Strong protective instincts toward flock and family
  • Tolerant of harsh weather conditions outdoors
  • Low tendency for excessive barking
  • Generally healthy with minimal genetic issues

Poodle

  • Highly intelligent and easy to train
  • Hypoallergenic coat reduces shedding
  • Strong bond with family members
  • Adaptable to various living environments
  • Excellent performance in canine sports

Challenges & considerations

Potential challenges and considerations for each breed

Maremma and Abruzzes Sheepdog

  • Strong-willed and resistant to obedience training
  • High exercise needs require ample space
  • Wary of strangers, may be aloof with guests
  • Not suitable for apartment or urban living
  • Prone to boredom if left without a job

Poodle

  • Requires regular professional grooming
  • Prone to separation anxiety if left alone
  • Needs daily mental and physical stimulation
  • Can be reserved with unfamiliar people
  • Susceptible to certain genetic health issues

Ready to choose your perfect breed?

Learn more about each breed or compare other breeds to find the perfect match for your lifestyle.

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