Estrela Mountain Dog
Temperament:
The Estrela Mountain Dog is an old Portuguese dog breed that was bred specifically for guarding large herds. In experienced hands, however, this loyal four-legged friend can also be a wonderful family dog.
Characteristics
The males are generally larger and heavier than the females and can weigh up to 50 kg with a height at the withers of 72 cm. The large dog is compact but well proportioned.
The relatively small ears are triangular and point backwards.
The Estrela Mountain Dog is bred with both long and short coats, whereby the long-haired variety has prevailed. Both varieties have a dense undercoat and an equally dense but goat-like top coat.
The coat color varies from chestnut to gray to yellow. A special feature of this breed is the dark shading on the face. It resembles a mask.
In keeping with its role, the Estrela Mountain Dog is very vigilant and fundamentally suspicious of strangers. However, he is loyal to his master and concerned for his well-being.
As a shepherd dog, he is used to working independently, which is also reflected in his other behavior.
These characteristics also make it a popular guard and family dog. However, keeping this dog requires a certain amount of experience.
This is mainly due to its pronounced urge to move, which makes it ideal for keeping in rural areas.
Coat care:
Shedding:
Energy level:
Trainability:
Children suitable:
The right food
The predisposition to hip joint dysplasia is often inherited in the Estrela Mountain Dog. However, correct posture and nutrition in the first few months of life can go a long way towards preventing an outbreak. A balanced diet adapted to the child's age, weight and activity level is therefore essential.
When selecting food, attention should therefore be paid to high-quality and balanced ingredients.
Health & Care
Grooming this breed is generally surprisingly easy. Even long-haired dogs do not need to be brushed daily, but are content with one grooming a week. The coat is also naturally dirt-repellent.
However, the Estrela Mountain Dog sheds a lot during the shedding period and must therefore be brushed thoroughly every day.
Suitable accessories
Despite their love of exercise, this breed is not suitable for dog sports. They are far too stubborn for that.
What the Estrela Mountain Dog needs above all is enough exercise.
Like all dogs, he needs a lead, a collar, a food and water bowl, a place to sleep, a brush and a comb. A dog crate is required for transportation in the car.
Origin & History
The Estrela Mountain Dog is considered to be the oldest breed on the Iberian Peninsula. They have lived as shepherd dogs in the Serra de Estrela region for a long time. They defended the herds against attackers such as wolves or thieves. Today, however, stray dogs pose the greatest danger to the herds in the mountains. It is not uncommon for the Estrela Mountain Dog to be left alone with its herds.
There are also lovers of this breed outside Portugal. There are breeders in England, France, Sweden, Norway, Finland, the Czech Republic, the Netherlands and the USA.
