Stop Calling Me Lazy!

Just because I’m a Sarplaninac and enjoy my leisure time doesn’t mean that I’m lazy! Livestock guard dogs everywhere get a bad rap, and this is why.

Constantly on Watch

You know those silly guards in England that stand watch in front of Buckingham Palace? Vigilant, scanning, watching for trouble? I’m the same. The only difference? Why spend all that extra energy standing up when you can do the same job lying down? Think about it. I’d have less energy to chase off a fox or a skunk if I stood around all day. Somebody should send this tip to those guards in England, honestly.

  I’m I'm  Not ignoring Humans; I’m Analyzing

Sure, fine, I’m laying down on active watch, and people come up and pet me. Do humans come up to you at your place of employment and start tickling your head? Or rubbing your belly? I’m working here! Of course I enjoy it, but I’m on watch. I’m not ignoring you; I’m choosing to analyze the surroundings instead. It’s for your protection.

Other Dogs

Other dogs, like my brother Kaleo (German Shepherd), can’t get enough playtime. Fetch the newspaper, fetch the ball, fetch the stick—he loves it. Humans see that and think, “Kaleo has so much energy, unlike Aspen, who just sleeps all day.”

I’m on watch! I’M YOUR ALARM SYSTEM. If an intruder breaks in, will Kaleo’s stick protect Mom and Dad? Nope. But my bite will.