Saint Miguel Cattle Dog
Other names: São Miguel Cattle Dog, São Miguel Catch Dog, Cao fila de Sao Miguel, Azores Cattle Dog, Azores Cow Dog
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Wamiz's Top Breed
The Cao Fila de Sao Miguel is a very old breed of dog that first originated on the island of Sao Miguel, in the Azores islands, just off Portugal. This breed was first used as a herding dog to round up the livestock that lived on the island, both feral and tame. They are extremely loyal to their families and will protect them no matter what. However, they are very wary of strangers and often aggressive towards other animals. The dog’s name arises from “Cao” which means dog in Portuguese and “Fila” which translates to holding something by the mouth or teeth.
Key facts about the Saint Miguel Cattle Dog
Origins and history
This very old breed of dog was developed long before any records began. Although their ancestry is uncertain, it’s believed that the guarding and herding Saint Miguel Cattle Dog breed came from crossing various types of Molosser dogs. These Molosser canines were common around Europe during the 14th century to herd cattle, especially aggressive or stubborn ones. The Cao fila de Sao Miguel breed was first registered with the Portuguese Kennel Club in 1984, yet even to this day, they are not very popular outside of Portugal.
FCI breed nomenclature
FCI Group
Group 2 - Pinscher and Schnauzer - Molossoid and Swiss Mountain and Cattledogs
Section
Section 2 : Molossian type
Physical characteristics of the Saint Miguel Cattle Dog
Adult size
Female : Between 19 and 23 in
Male : Between 20 and 24 in
Weight
Female : Between 44 and 66 lb
Male : Between 55 and 77 lb
Coat colour
Many shades of fawn colour, with grey brindle or black markings.
Type of coat
The Cao fila de Sao Miguel has a short, smooth coat hair that is also quite dense. These dogs have fringing on the back of their thighs and tail.
Eye colour
Dark brown.
Description
This breed is medium to large sized. A heavy build, with the male dog being slightly heavier and taller than the female. The dog’s head is square-shaped and heavy and has a powerful, well-muscled jaw. The Cao Fila de Sao Miguel has a tail that is high set, slightly curved and of medium length. The dog’s ears are triangle-shaped, medium sized, and hang almost to the dog’s cheeks.
Good to know
As a dominant, strong breed, the Saint Miguel Cattle Dog needs to become part of the pack, and as such, needs to have a leader. When living with humans, this line of leadership needs to be clearly defined with set rules. It’s important that this dog realises that the human is his leader, otherwise he may show his displeasure by biting and growling. This is the most important factor to make a relationship with the Cao fila de Sao Miguel dog a success.