Breed History:

The Portuguese Sheepdog, known in its native country as the Cão da Serra de Aires, is a herding breed developed in the Serra de Aires region in southern Portugal. It was originally bred to herd and guard livestock in rugged and arid terrain. Though its precise ancestry is uncertain, it likely descends from ancient Pyrenean or Briard-type sheepdogs, possibly with influence from the Catalan Sheepdog.

The breed became widely appreciated by Portuguese shepherds for its intelligence, adaptability, and work ethic. It nearly faced extinction in the 20th century but was saved by fanciers and officially recognised by the Portuguese Kennel Club and later by the FCI in the 1990s.

Though still rare outside Portugal, the Portuguese Sheepdog is gaining attention for its unique appearance and versatile herding abilities.

Size – Medium

Life Expectancy: 12–14 years

Breed Appearance:

The Portuguese Sheepdog is a medium-sized, rustic-looking herding dog with a rectangular body, strong limbs, and nimble movement. It is known for its shaggy, goat-like coat, which is long, slightly wavy, and covers the entire body, including the face and eyes.

Its coat comes in yellow, chestnut, grey, fawn, or black, often with lighter or darker shading. It does not have an undercoat, making it better suited to mild climates.

The breed’s expression is lively and intelligent, with dark, expressive eyes and triangular ears that are either naturally hanging or cropped (though cropping is now discouraged or banned in many countries).

Breed Type – Herding/Companion:

Originally used as a sheep and cattle herder, the Portuguese Sheepdog is known for its tireless energy, keen instincts, and loyal nature. It is an excellent worker and can be trained to herd multiple species, including goats and horses.

As a companion, it is affectionate, devoted, and alert, forming close bonds with its family. It is wary of strangers and makes a good watchdog, though it is rarely aggressive. Its energetic and intuitive personality makes it well-suited to active families or individuals.

Training:

The Portuguese Sheepdog is highly intelligent and responsive to training, especially when mentally engaged. It enjoys learning and thrives on positive reinforcement, problem-solving, and task-based activities.

It may display independent thinking typical of herding dogs, so early obedience training and socialisation are essential. With consistent leadership and varied routines, it excels in herding, agility, obedience, and even dog dancing.

Avoid harsh corrections, as the breed is sensitive and emotionally aware of its owner’s tone and mood.

Health & Care:

The Portuguese Sheepdog is generally robust and healthy, with no widespread breed-specific disorders. However, like many medium-sized breeds, it can occasionally be prone to:

• Hip dysplasia

• Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)

• Allergies or skin sensitivities

Routine veterinary care, joint health supplements, and a balanced diet help maintain its vitality. Due to its lack of undercoat, it is less suited to cold, wet environments and may need extra care in harsh weather.

Living Conditions:

The breed adapts well to rural, suburban, or even urban environments, provided it receives ample exercise and interaction. It is not suitable for apartment living unless given daily outdoor time and stimulation.

The Portuguese Sheepdog is happiest when included in family life. It dislikes being left alone for extended periods and may develop separation anxiety or destructive behaviors without adequate companionship and mental activity.

It thrives in homes where it can have a job or regular activity, whether herding, training, or simply accompanying its owner on walks or hikes.

Exercise:

This is an active and athletic breed that needs at least 60 to 90 minutes of daily exercise. It enjoys long walks, play sessions, herding games, and agility work.

Mental stimulation is equally important. Puzzle toys, obedience drills, and interactive games help keep its sharp mind occupied. Without adequate exercise, the breed can become restless, vocal, or overly alert indoors.

Grooming:

Despite its long coat, grooming the Portuguese Sheepdog is moderate in difficulty. The shaggy, single-layer coat should be brushed 2–3 times per week to prevent tangles and matting, especially around the ears, legs, and chest.

It sheds minimally and typically stays clean, requiring only occasional baths. Routine nail trimming, ear cleaning, and dental hygiene are essential to overall health.

Its coat may trap dirt or debris, so a quick comb-out after outdoor activity is beneficial.

Advantages:

• Highly intelligent and easily trainable

• Strong herding instinct and work ethic

• Loyal, affectionate, and bonds closely with family

• Distinctive appearance with a unique shaggy coat

• Adaptable to various activities (agility, herding, obedience)

• Low shedding compared to other long-coated breeds

Disadvantages:

• Needs daily exercise and mental stimulation

• May become anxious or bored if left alone

• Independent streak can challenge novice owners

• A coat requires regular brushing to avoid tangles

• Can be wary or reserved with strangers

• Less tolerant of cold climates due to a lack of an undercoat