Cao Da Serra Da Estrela

February 15, 2024

The Cão da Serra da Estrela is a traditional Portuguese dog breed that was bred specifically for herding. In experienced hands, this loyal four-legged friend can also be an excellent family dog.

Contents: Cão da Serra da Estrela

profile
Special features
Nutrition
Health and care
Origin & History
The right accessories
Conclusion

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Cao Da Serra Da Estrela - Profile

Character: Proud, protective, loyal
Size: Large
Height: 62-72cm
Weight: 35-50 kg
Life expectancy: 10-12 years
Coat type: Long, dense
Colour: Fawn, wolf grey and yellow, with or without brindle
Special features: Known for its binding ability and protective properties
FCI group: Molossoids, mountain dogs

Cao Da Serra Da Estrela - Special features

The males of this breed tend to be larger and heavier than the females and can reach a height of up to 72 cm at the withers and a weight of up to 50 kg. Despite their size, these dogs have a compact and balanced stature. The ears are comparatively small, triangular in shape and tilted backwards.The Cão Da Serra Da Estrela is bred in long and short-coated variants, with the long-haired variant generally being more common. Both variants have a dense undercoat and an equally dense, goat-like topcoat.The coat of this breed can appear in various shades from fawn to grey to yellow. A striking feature of this breed is a dark facial mask, which gives it a unique appearance.Due to its original duties as a guard and herding dog, the Cão Da Serra Da Estrela is extremely alert by nature and often harbors a fundamental distrust of strangers. However, he is loyal and devoted to his owner and is very keen to protect his well-being. These dogs are independent and self-sufficient in their work, which is also reflected in their other behavior. These distinctive characteristics make them popular as both guard dogs and family dogs. However, keeping this breed requires a certain amount of experience, particularly because of their strong need for exercise, which makes them particularly suitable for life in the country.

Cao Da Serra Da Estrela - What should you consider regarding nutrition?

The Cão Da Serra Da Estrela is often prone to hip dysplasia, but appropriate housing and nutrition in the first few months of life can help prevent such problems. It is therefore crucial to ensure a balanced, age-appropriate and natural dog food . In the first few weeks, puppies should be fed a diet rich in energy, but without being overly stressed. After that, it is advisable to switch to a diet with less protein to avoid too rapid growth. When the dog is fully grown, the energy intake should be adjusted again and tailored to the dog's individual needs.

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Cao Da Serra Da Estrela - Health and Care

Grooming this breed is generally surprisingly easy. Even the long-haired dogs do not need to be brushed daily and are happy with a weekly grooming session. However, during the coat change, the Cão Da Serra Da Estrela sheds a lot and should therefore be brushed thoroughly every day.

Cao Da Serra Da Estrela - Origin & History

The Cão Da Serra Da Estrela is considered to be the oldest breed in the Iberian Peninsula. These dogs have long served as shepherd dogs in the Serra de Estrela region, where they protected the herds from attackers such as wolves or thieves. Nowadays, stray dogs represent the greatest threat to the herds in the mountainous regions, and often the Cão Da Serra Da Estrela dogs are left alone with the herds.

The popularity of this breed is not limited to Portugal, but there are also enthusiasts and breeders in other countries such as England, France, Sweden, Norway, Finland, the Czech Republic, the Netherlands and the USA.

Cao Da Serra Da Estrela - The right accessories

Despite their love of exercise, this breed is not suitable for dog sports . They are far too stubborn for that. What the Cão Da Serra Da Estrela needs above all is enough space to go on forays. They often do this without company.

Cao Da Serra Da Estrela - Conclusion

The Cão Da Serra Da Estrela is an ancient Portuguese breed with a robust character and special protective instincts. They are excellent watchdogs and flock protectors and have a strong bond with their owners. The breed requires a lot of space and freedom of movement, making them ideal for rural environments. Their dense, weather-resistant coats require daily brushing during shedding, but grooming is generally straightforward. Experienced dog owners looking for a reliable and watchful companion will find a loyal companion in this breed.

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