Breed History:

The Can de Chira, also known as the Perro Pastor Altoaragonés, is a rare traditional herding breed from the Alto Aragón region of northeastern Spain. For centuries, shepherds in the Pyrenees and surrounding mountain areas relied on these dogs to herd and manage sheep and cattle across rugged terrain. The breed was valued for its intelligence, agility, endurance, and ability to work independently with livestock. 

As modern farming practices expanded, the breed's population declined significantly and it is now considered rare. Conservation efforts in Spain aim to preserve this historic regional herding dog. 

Gender	Height	Weight
Male	42–47 cm	16–20 kg
Female	38–43 cm	12–16 kg

Size: Medium

Life Expectancy: 12–15 years

Breed Appearance:

The Can de Chira is a medium-sized, agile, wolf-like herding dog.

The breed commonly features:

• Wedge-shaped head

• Alert almond-shaped eyes

• Semi-drop ears

• Athletic, square-built body

• Bushy tail carried naturally

Its coat is medium-length, longer on the body and legs and shorter on the head and neck. 

Common coat colours include:

• Black with white markings

• Black and white

• White face, chest, legs, and belly with a black body

The breed's appearance reflects its mountain herding heritage and working functionality.

Breed Type – Herding Dog:

The Can de Chira is an intelligent, energetic, and dependable livestock-working breed.

It is known for being:

• Loyal and devoted

• Highly intelligent

• Alert and watchful

• Agile and hardworking

• Confident and adaptable

The breed forms strong bonds with its family while maintaining the independence required for herding work. 

Training:

The Can de Chira is highly trainable and responsive.

Training should focus on:

• Early socialisation

• Positive reinforcement methods

• Herding exercises

• Obedience training

• Mental enrichment activities

The breed excels in:

• Herding work

• Agility

• Obedience

• Farm duties

• Outdoor sports

Health & Care:

The Can de Chira is generally a healthy and hardy breed but may occasionally be prone to:

• Hip dysplasia

• Joint injuries from strenuous activity

• Eye disorders (rare)

Routine veterinary care, balanced nutrition, and regular exercise help maintain overall health.

Living Conditions:

The Can de Chira is best suited to active homes.

Ideal environments include:

• Farms and ranches

• Rural homes

• Houses with secure yards

• Active outdoor households

Apartment living is generally not recommended due to the breed's energy level and working instincts.

Exercise:

The Can de Chira has high exercise requirements.

Recommended activities include:

• Long daily walks or runs

• Herding activities

• Agility training

• Hiking and outdoor adventures

• Interactive games and mental challenges

Regular physical and mental stimulation is essential.

Grooming:

The medium-length coat requires moderate maintenance.

• Brushing 1–2 times weekly

• More frequent brushing during shedding seasons

• Occasional bathing as needed

• Routine ear cleaning and nail trimming

• Regular dental care

The breed sheds moderately throughout the year.

Advantages:

• Intelligent and highly trainable

• Excellent herding instincts

• Loyal and devoted companion

• Hardy and adaptable working dog

• Generally healthy breed

• Agile and athletic

Disadvantages:

• Rare and difficult to find

• High exercise and mental stimulation requirements

• Can become destructive if bored

• Requires consistent training and engagement

• Not ideal for sedentary households

• Best suited to active owners with space and outdoor activities

• May be reserved with strangers without proper socialisation