Portuguese Sheepdog

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

Portuguese Sheepdog

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

Life expectancy :

5

17

10

12

Temperament :

Playful Intelligent

Size :

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 classification of the Portuguese Sheepdog

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

Type of coat

Eye colour

Brown

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. 

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Portuguese Sheepdog: Purchase price

As this is a rare breed, the average price of the Portuguese Sheepdog puppy is unknown. The average cost of care for a dog of this size is £100 to £120 per month.

Portuguese Sheepdog: Shedding

The Portuguese is a low shedder, but does shed throughout the year. 

Nutrition of the Portuguese Sheepdog

It is always worthwhile to feed a Portuguese a high-quality and specially formulated dog food rather than human food. The Portuguese’s diet should consist of good amounts of protein and fat. 

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