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Dog Breed

Portuguese Sheepdog

Breed Overview

Breed Name: Portuguese Sheepdog

Origin: Portugal

Breed Group: Herding (AKC Foundation Stock Service)

Physical Characteristics

Size: Medium

Height: Male: 17.5–21.5 inches (45–55 cm), Female: 16.5–20.5 inches (42–52 cm)

Weight: Male: 37–60 lbs (17–27 kg), Female: 30–53 lbs (14–24 kg)

Coat Type: Long, shaggy, goat-like texture; no undercoat

Coat Colors: Yellow, fawn, gray, wolf gray, black with or without tan

Grooming Needs: Moderate (regular brushing to prevent tangles)

Shedding: Low to Moderate

Behavioral Traits

Temperament: Energetic, intelligent, devoted, alert, affectionate

Intelligence Level: High

Energy Level: High

Health Information

Lifespan: 12–15 years

Common Health Issues: Generally healthy; watch for hip dysplasia or eye issues

Care

Nutrition Needs: Balanced diet for active medium-sized breeds

Exercise Needs: High – needs daily walks, playtime, and tasks to stay mentally engaged

Space Requirements: Best with a yard or active lifestyle; not ideal for sedentary homes

Noise Sensitivity: Moderate (can be vocal and alert)

Socialization and Training

Socialization Needs: High

Socialization Tips: Very intelligent and eager to learn; excels with positive, consistent training

Good with Children: Yes, sociable when well socialized

Good with Other Dogs: Yes, sociable when well socialized

Good with Other Pets: Yes, with supervision—may herd smaller animals

Training: Very intelligent and eager to learn; excels with positive, consistent training

Description

The Portuguese Sheepdog, or Cão da Serra de Aires, is a lively and clever herding breed from Portugal’s Alentejo region. Known for its expressive eyes and scruffy coat, this breed was developed to herd and protect livestock in harsh, rocky terrain. Today, it's valued as a loyal and versatile companion, excelling in obedience, herding trials, and agility.

Its long, wavy coat lacks an undercoat, making it less prone to heavy shedding than many other herding breeds, though regular brushing is important to prevent tangles. Portuguese Sheepdogs are extremely intelligent, thrive with consistent training and daily work, and are happiest when given mental and physical challenges.

History

Origin: The Portuguese Sheepdog, known in Portugal as Cão da Serra de Aires, is a medium-sized herding breed originating from the mountainous Alentejo region of Portugal, specifically near the Serra de Aires. It likely descends from a mix of Briards, Catalan Sheepdogs, and other local mountain herding dogs. Historically, these dogs herded cattle, sheep, goats, horses, and pigs in rugged terrain and extreme weather. The breed’s roots trace back centuries, making it one of Portugal’s indigenous regional dogs. It is also nicknamed cão macaco ("monkey dog") due to its expressive face and lively, agile movements.
Development: The Portuguese Sheepdog was developed as an all-purpose herding and livestock guardian dog, valued for its intelligence, agility, and independence. Its long, dense coat with a goat-like texture protects it in harsh environments. The breed was nearly extinct by the 1970s due to urbanization, modern farming methods, and lack of international recognition. Dedicated breeders revived the breed by emphasizing its value as both a working dog and companion. The first breed standard was written by Antonio Cabral and Felipe Morgado Romeiros and accepted by the Portuguese Kennel Club in 1932. The breed is closely related to other European sheepdogs such as the Pyrenean and Catalan Sheepdogs.
Recognition: The Portuguese Sheepdog received full recognition by the Portuguese Kennel Club in 1932 and was internationally recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) in 1996. It is also recognized by the United Kennel Club (UKC) in the United States since 2006. While still rare outside Portugal, the breed has gained popularity as both a herding dog and family companion in Europe and North America. The breed is listed among Portuguese native breeds by the Clube Português de Canicultura (Portuguese Kennel Club).
Today, the Portuguese Sheepdog is known for its intelligence, loyalty, and strong work ethic. It remains a capable herding dog but is increasingly kept as a devoted family companion and watchdog. The breed requires significant exercise and mental stimulation, thriving in active homes with space to roam. It has a distinctive long, shaggy coat in colors including yellow, brown, grey, fawn, wolf grey, and black, often with tan markings. The breed is alert and wary of strangers, making it a good watchdog but sometimes challenging in apartment settings due to its barking and energy levels. Portuguese Sheepdogs need firm, consistent training and socialization and are best suited to experienced dog owners.

Ideal Owner

Active individuals or families looking for a smart, hardworking, and loyal herding dog