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Maremma Sheepdog vs Box-a-Shar Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Maremma or Boxpei?

Compare the Maremma Sheepdog and Box-a-Shar breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a Maremma or a Boxpei? Read on to determine which breed is the better fit for you

Other names

Abruzzese Sheepdog, Maremma, Pastore Maremmano, Abruzzo Sheepdog, Pastore Abruzzese, Maremmano, Maremmano-Abruzzese, Cane da Pastore
Boxpei

Weight

What is the average weight of Maremma Sheepdog and Box-a-Shar?
87.5 pounds ( 40 kg )
19.0 pounds ( 9 kg )

Height

What is the average height of Maremma Sheepdog and Box-a-Shar
27.5 inches ( 69.9 cm )
14.5 inches ( 36.8 cm )

Hypoallergenic

Are Maremma Sheepdogs or Box-a-Shars hypoallergenic, or neither?

No

Unfortunately, neither Maremma Sheepdog nor Box-a-Shar are hypoallergenic, which may not make them the best choice for dog lovers who suffer from pet allergies.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Maremma Sheepdog and Box-a-Shar dogs?
Alert
Dignified
Intelligent
Determined
Friendly
Loyal

Playful
Loving
Independent
Energetic
Intelligent
Confident
Friendly
Affectionate
Loyal
Devoted
Fearless
Brave
Bright
Reserved
Suspicious

Shedding Level

Do Maremma Sheepdogs shed more than Box-a-Shars, or which breed sheds more, Maremma Sheepdogs or Box-a-Shars?

Maremma Sheepdogs are moderate shedders, but regular brushing can reduce shedding and maintain coat health.

Box-a-Shars are low shedding dogs, requiring minimal coat care.

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Maremma Sheepdog or Box-a-Shar?

Maremma Sheepdogs make excellent watchdogs - they're vocal and protective of their territory.

Avoid Box-a-Shars as watchdogs - they're not effective.

Origin

What is the origin of Maremma Sheepdog and Box-a-Shar dog breeds?
Italy

​United States

Ancestry

What are the origins of Maremma Sheepdog and Box-a-Shar breeds?
Mastiff, Native Mountain Dogs

Boxer, Shar-Pei

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Maremma Sheepdog and Box-a-Shar?
American Canine Registry
America's Pet Registry
Continental Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
Kennel Club of Great Britain
National Kennel Club
New Zealand Kennel Club
United Kennel Club

ACHC = American Canine Hybrid Club
DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.

Date of Birth

When were Maremma Sheepdog and Box-a-Shar breeds first developed?
Unknown

2000s

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Maremma Sheepdog and Box-a-Shar dogs?
Brown
Amber

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Maremma Sheepdog and Box-a-Shar?
Black

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Maremma Sheepdog and Box-a-Shar breeds?
White

Brown
Black
Red
Brindle
Pied

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Maremma Sheepdog and Box-a-Shar breeds?

Maremma Sheepdogs have longer coats compared to most dogs.

Box-a-Shars have coats that can be either short or medium in length.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Maremma Sheepdog and Box-a-Shar?

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Maremma Sheepdog and Box-a-Shar?
Wavy

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Maremma Sheepdog and Box-a-Shar?

11-13 puppies per pregnancy

A Maremma Sheepdog can have a litter of 11-13 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

2-10 puppies per pregnancy

A Box-a-Shar can have a litter of 2-10 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

Maremma Sheepdogs have average adaptability to changes in lifestyle and living environments compared to other breeds.

Box-a-Shars are known for their adaptability and can adjust well to different environments and lifestyle changes.

Health Issues

Between Maremma Sheepdog and Box-a-Shar, which breed is more prone to health problems?

While the Maremma Sheepdog breed is generally healthy, occasional vet check-ups are still necessary to address any health concerns.

Box-a-Shars typically have low vet costs due to their good health, but it's important to monitor their health and seek vet care when necessary.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Maremma Sheepdog and Box-a-Shar breeds?
Hip And Elbow Dysplasia

Bloat
Hypothyroidism
Degenerative Myelopathy
Cancer
Aortic Stenosis

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Maremma Sheepdog and Box-a-Shar?
Bloat

Patellar Luxation
Hip Dysplasia
Epilepsy
Eye Problems

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Maremma Sheepdog and Box-a-Shar breeds?
X-Rays
Eye Examination
Physical Examination

X-Rays
MRI
Eye Examination
Physical Examination
Allergy Tests
Blood Work
Radiography

Energy

How do the energy levels of Maremma Sheepdogs and Box-a-Shars compare?

For those who lead a balanced lifestyle, Maremma Sheepdog and Box-a-Shar breeds may be a good choice as they have an average energy level.

Social Needs

Maremma Sheepdog vs Box-a-Shar social needs comparison

Maremma Sheepdog and Box-a-Shar have above average social needs compared to other breeds. They thrive in environments where they have a lot of interaction with humans and other dogs.

Exercise Needed

Maremma Sheepdog vs Box-a-Shar exercise need comparison.

Maremma Sheepdogs need moderate physical activity and are great for families and active individuals.

Box-a-Shars need only a small amount of physical activity, ideal for busy or elderly people or those with limited space.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Maremma Sheepdog or Box-a-Shar?

Maremma Sheepdog and Box-a-Shar breeds are known to have moderate energy levels and normal sleep patterns, typically sleeping around 12-14 hours per day.

Tendency to Bark

Do Maremma Sheepdogs or Box-a-Shars bark more/less frequently?

Maremma Sheepdog dogs are generally less vocal than other breeds and only bark when necessary, such as to alert their owner or communicate.

Box-a-Shars are typically quiet and only bark when needed, such as to alert their owner or when in distress.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Maremma Sheepdog vs Box-a-Shar?

Roaming urge

Maremma Sheepdog vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

Maremma Sheepdog or Box-a-Shar - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Maremma Sheepdog and Box-a-Shar entertained?
Petting, Kiss, Brushing, Walk, Play, Run, Swim, Play ball

Walk, Hike, Play, Hunt, Tug-of-war, Fetch, Brushing, Playing, Swimming, Snuggling, Wrestling, Play tug-a-war, Go to Park, Run, Frisbee, Chase, Ball throwing, Training, Cuddling, Car rides, Running, Mind games, Walks

Tolerance of being left alone

Walks per Week

How many miles should Maremma Sheepdog or Box-a-Shar walk each week?

16 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Maremma Sheepdog, it's at least 16 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

9 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Box-a-Shar, it's at least 9 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Maremma Sheepdogs or Box-a-Shars require more exercise?

60 minutes

In general most Maremma Sheepdogs usually need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

30 minutes

In general most Box-a-Shars usually need at least 30 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Maremma Sheepdogs or Box-a-Shars?

The Maremma Sheepdog requires an average amount of grooming compared to other breeds.

The Box-a-Shar has low grooming needs and is easy to maintain.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Maremma Sheepdog and Box-a-Shar dogs?

Daily

Ideally, Maremma Sheepdog should be brushed at least 2 or 3 times a week (preferably daily) improve shedding.

Weekly

Box-a-Shar should be brushed at least once a week. Of course you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Maremma Sheepdogs and Box-a-Shars?
Pin Brush
Dematter
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Maremma Sheepdog or Box-a-Shar in cups?

4.5 cups

For an average 75-100 pound (34 - 45 kg) Maremma Sheepdog feed 4.5 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

3 cups

For an average 45-65 pound (20 - 29 kg) Box-a-Shar feed 3 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, Maremma Sheepdog or Box-a-Shar?

$3.50 - $4.90 / day

The average cost of a Maremma Sheepdog is somewhere $3.50 - $4.90 per day.

$2.10 - $2.70 / day

The average cost of a Box-a-Shar is somewhere $2.10 - $2.70 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Maremma Sheepdog or Box-a-Shar?

$112 - $154 / month

The average per month expenses of a Maremma Sheepdog is between $112 - $154. This makes an average of $1344 - $1848 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

$55 - $73 / month

The average per month expenses of a Box-a-Shar is between $55 - $73. This makes an average of $660 - $876 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

Intelligence

Comparing Intelligence: Maremma Sheepdogs vs Box-a-Shars

Maremma Sheepdog has below average obedience intelligence, but they excel in understanding human emotions.

Box-a-Shars are average in obedience intelligence but have a high IQ and may cause trouble if left unsupervised.

Sensitivity Level

How do Maremma Sheepdog and Box-a-Shar compare in sensitivity?

This breed is sensitive and requires gentle handling and a calm home environment.

Box-a-Shars have average emotions and adapt well to different situations.

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Maremma Sheepdog vs Box-a-Shar?

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Maremma Sheepdog or Box-a-Shar?

Maremma Sheepdogs are good apartment dogs as long as they get enough exercise and stimulation outside of the apartment.

The Box-a-Shar is a great apartment dog, thriving with sufficient exercise and time outside as part of their daily routine.

Child Friendly

Do Maremma Sheepdogs or Box-a-Shars have a friendlier temperament towards children?

Maremma Sheepdogs are good with kids if socialized and trained from a young age.

Box-a-Shars have an average level of friendliness towards children.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Maremma Sheepdog or Box-a-Shar?

Cat Friendly

Do Maremma Sheepdog or Box-a-Shar breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

Maremma Sheepdogs are good with cats, but early training is needed to prevent chasing behavior.

Box-a-Shars are average in their friendliness toward cats and tend to do well with them, especially if raised together.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Maremma Sheepdog or Box-a-Shar?

Maremma Sheepdogs are average in their friendliness towards other dogs, and socialization can help.

Box-a-Shars are less friendly towards other dogs, but can improve with socialization.

Pet friendly

How do Maremma Sheepdog or Box-a-Shar dogs interact with other pets?

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Maremma Sheepdog or Box-a-Shar?

Maremma Sheepdogs are averagely friendly around strangers but benefit from early socialisation.

Box-a-Shars are quick to announce strangers and can be standoffish or suspicious.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Maremma Sheepdog and Box-a-Shar?

Maremma Sheepdogs have an average level of playfulness, enjoying playtime like most dogs but not excessively so.

Box-a-Shars are a playful breed that needs daily playtime to be happy.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Maremma Sheepdogs and Box-a-Shars compare?

Maremma Sheepdog and Box-a-Shar dogs are usually easy to train, but may require consistency to fully obey commands.

Common match-ups