Portuguese Sheepdog
Cao de Serra de Aires
Key facts
| FCI group | 1. Sheepdogs and Cattle Dogs (except Swiss Cattle Dogs) |
|---|---|
| Country of origin | Portugal |
| Category | Medium |
| Height at withers | 42–55 cm |
| Weight | 17–27 kg |
Recognition features
- Medium-sized, slightly long dog with long, goat-like coat without undercoat
- Beard, moustache and eyebrows that do not hide the eyes
- Extremely agile; known at home as the "monkey dog"
Purpose
A Portuguese herding dog from Alentejo, nicknamed the "monkey dog", used to herd and guard many kinds of livestock.
History
A sheepdog of the Alentejo region used to herd and watch over sheep, cattle, horses, goats and pigs. An austere, rustic dog adapted to temperature swings and to covering long distances across the Alentejo plains.
Coat
Long, straight or slightly wavy coat of goat-like texture without undercoat; yellow, brown, grey, fawn, wolf-grey or black, with tan markings.
Similar breeds
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Learn to recognise this breed and many more
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The information is indicative. Texts are based on available sources and may contain inaccuracies; for binding details (e.g. for breeding or shows) use the official breed standard. Report a photo or rights.