Portuguese Sheepdog
Other names: Cão da Serra de Aires, Cão Macaco, Monkey Dog, Macaque Dog

A rare dog is the Portuguese Sheepdog. It is native to the Serra de Aires Mountains of Portugal where it has been bred for decades to guard and herd livestock. It is unlikely to be spotted in great numbers elsewhere in the world. The breed is nicknamed the monkey dog because of its facial appearance, and lively and agile demeanour.
Key facts about the Portuguese Sheepdog
Origins and history
The Portuguese Sheepdog was first bred in the 1910s. It may have descended from the French Briard. The dog was prized by farmers throughout the first part of the 20th Century, but by 1970 the breed was almost extinct. Since the 70s breeders have been able to reassert the breed as a pet, and it is now a popular choice of companion for Portuguese families.
FCI breed nomenclature
FCI Group
Group 1 - Sheepdogs and Cattledogs (except Swiss Cattledogs)
Section
Section 1 : Sheepdogs
Physical characteristics of the Portuguese Sheepdog
Adult size
Female : Between 24 and 27 in
Male : Between 26 and 29 in
Weight
Female : Between 77 and 99 lb
Male : Between 99 and 132 lb
Coat colour
The colours of the coat of this dog are seen of black, grey and fawn.
Type of coat
The single coat of this dog is long, extremely abundant and slightly harsh to the touch. The hair of its face gives rise to a beard, moustache and eyebrows.
Eye colour
Hazel or amber.
Description
A robust dog with a rustic appearance; the Portuguese Sheepdog is compact, stocky and well-proportioned. The head is slightly square, longer than it is broad. The ears are set high and hang against the cheeks of the dog.
Good to know
This dog is renowned for its ability to herd flocks of sheep and to defend livestock against predators. It is clever and stubborn and will try to dominate a household if given the opportunity to do so. The owner of the Portuguese must exhibit confidence and be consistent of their treatment of the dog.