These dogs originated in Europe and Asia, where they have been used for centuries to protect livestock from predators. Each breed was developed based on the needs of the Shepherd, the area, climate, predators etc all of which attributed to the individual breeds temperament, conformation, coat, behavior and character. There are a large number of LGD such as the Anatolian, Kangal, Great Pyranees, Maremma, Tatra, Central Asian Shepherd and many more. Licvestock guardian dogs are not herding dogs, but are protectors of their stock.

The most common way to pronounce the name is Shar-pla-nee-nac  or Shar-pla-nee-natz

The Sarplaninac originate in an inland mountain climate. Due to their good quality coat they can withstand very cold temperatures.
They do not do well in extreme hot climates, however can handle quite a large temperature range. The will require shade in the summer months.

Yes, like all large breeds hip dysplasia and other structural problems can occur.  Bloating can also be an issue with any deep barreled breeds. They can be sensitive to anesthesia, which should be administered with care, proper weighing and monitoring. Care needs to be taken with flea and tick sprays. In general there are no specific breed health problems. Most of the problems that are found are primarily problems found in most large breed dogs.

Yes, they do, HOWEVER, they may be very protective of your home and family.  
They are not necessarily very sociable in the dog park.
They are calm protectors. They can be aloof and standoffish to strangers.

YES.S ecure fencing is a must to safely contain your livestock guardian dog.  Most guardian dogs like to expand their territory and will roam. This can be a liability should they hurt someone, be involved in a motor accident or bite someone. A free roaming guarding dog/pet is NOT an option. Ever.

Most sars are great with children, however as a young pup they may be rough and playful and due to their size can easily knock over a smaller child. When walking on a lead they can easily drag a smaller person unless well trained. Some can become rather food aggressive and will need to be watched. We believe that no small children should be unsupervised around any dog
(large or small)!

The Sarplaninac is a strong willed, fairly stubborn and dominant natured dog. He is highly protective of his family, his kids, his home and his stock. They are free thinkers, not very obedient or subservient. They can be canine aggressive, to dogs they do not know. They are intelligent dogs, good at problem solving and have an innate survival instinct. These dogs are  large dogs and physically very powerful. You need to understand that consequent, clear responses from you are required. There should be zero tolerance for any behavior that may be inappropriate.

From the UKC: Despite being slightly smaller than many other livestock guarding breeds, the Sarplaninac is characterized by extraordinary strength and large teeth, making it a formidable adversary of predatory animals. This breed has a typical livestock guarding temperament: highly intelligent and independent; devoted to family members and wary of strangers; calm and steady but fearless and quick to react to perceived threats.