Estrela Mountain Dog

Estrela Mountain Dog by Traceywashere
One of the oldest breeds in the Iberian Peninsula, the Estrela Mountain Dog (Portuguese: cão de Serra da Estrệla) is a large dog from the Estrela Mountains of Portugal bred to guard livestock, especially sheep, and homesteads.

Despite the age of the breed, there is no documentation of their history and it was relatively unknown outside of the mountain region until the early 20th century. Beginning in 1908, shows called concursos were held to promote and preserve the breed. Livestock guardian working trials were held that consisted of an owner introducing his dog into a large field with flocks of sheep that dispersed when the Estrela Mountain Dog appeared. The dog was graded on well they collected the sheep before assuming a leadership position at the head of the flock.

The first official breed standard for the Estrela Mountain Dog was formalized in 1933.

Weight: Male: 88–110 lbs (40–50 kg) Female: 66–88 lbs (30–40 kg)
Height: Male: 26–29 inches (65–72 cm) Female: 24–27 inches (62–69 cm)
Coat: Two varieties: Short and Long hair. Both thick and slightly coarse.
Color: Fawn, Brindle, Grey, Yellow.
Life span: 10–12 years

Temperament: Suspicious, Stubborn, Dignified, Keen, Alert, Protective.

Health: Healthy breed with a long life span for its size. May be susceptible to hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia.

Special Interest:

• Long-haired variety most popular at shows.
• Most working Estrela Mountain Dogs are short-haired.
• Portuguese Marines have used them as patrol dogs.
• No record of the Estrela Mountain Dog outside Portugal prior to 1972.

Classifications:
AKC: FSS
KC (UK): Pastoral
NZKC: Utility
UKC: Guardian Dog
FCI: Group 2, Section 2.2 Molossian: Mountain type #173;
Short-haired 173a;
Long-haired 173b

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