Veluwe shepherds use Italian dogs to protect sheep from wolves

Shepherds in the Veluwe region of the Netherlands have introduced Maremmano-Abruzzese dogs to protect sheep flocks from increasing wolf activity. The volunteer organization Stichting Schapedrift Ermelo acquired two dogs from Italy this summer to safeguard their flock on the Ermelosche Heide.

While the organization had previously installed eight-foot electric fences around sheep enclosures, the animals remained vulnerable when grazing on the heathlands. Shepherd Marion Derks noted that the threat from wolves is growing, with several wolves observed showing interest in the sheep.

The Maremmano-Abruzzese dogs are intended to act as a deterrent rather than to physically confront wolves. By their presence and behavior—such as barking and appearing larger when danger is sensed—the dogs aim to convince wolves that the sheep are too difficult a target, prompting the predators to seek easier prey elsewhere.