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They are typically gentle, patient, and protective with children, especially when raised with them. Their guardian instincts mean they often watch over kids carefully, but their large size requires supervision with very young children to prevent accidental bumps or knocks.

They were bred as livestock guardians and use barking to warn off predators, so vocal behavior is part of their nature. Consistent training, adequate exercise, and managing triggers such as visual access to the street can reduce excessive barking, but most will always be relatively vocal compared with other breeds.

They are not high-intensity sporting dogs but do need regular moderate activity to stay fit and mentally balanced. Daily walks plus access to a secure yard and chances to patrol or explore are usually sufficient, though young adults may need more structured exercise to prevent restlessness.

It is challenging but sometimes possible for a calm adult with an experienced owner. They need frequent outdoor time, a place to stretch out, and very good noise management because their size and tendency to bark can create problems in close quarters.

They have a thick double coat that sheds year round and heavily during seasonal changes. Weekly brushing, and more frequent work during shedding seasons, helps control loose hair and prevent matting, while baths can be relatively infrequent if the coat is kept clean and brushed out.

They are intelligent but strongly independent thinkers, shaped by centuries of working without close human direction. Training needs to be calm, consistent, and patient, focusing on cooperation rather than obedience for its own sake, and they often respond best to short, positive sessions rather than repetitive drills.

Common concerns include hip and elbow dysplasia, certain orthopedic issues related to their large size, and occasionally bloat and some hereditary eye conditions. Responsible breeders typically screen for joint and eye problems, and keeping the dog lean with appropriate exercise helps reduce stress on the skeleton.

Their coat insulates against both cold and heat, but they are still more comfortable in cooler climates. In warm weather they need shade, constant access to fresh water, and limited exercise during the hottest parts of the day to reduce the risk of overheating.

They are naturally protective and territorial, which is part of their original role as flock guardians. Formal guard training is generally unnecessary and can even be counterproductive, since good socialization and clear boundaries usually produce a dog that is calmly watchful rather than reactive.

Many are very tolerant and even nurturing with other animals when properly introduced, reflecting their history as livestock guardians. Early and careful socialization is important, but once bonded they often coexist peacefully with other dogs, cats, and farm animals, although same-sex dog conflicts can occur in some individuals.