Estrela Mountain Dog

Cão da Serra da Estrela
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Face-On View
3/4 View
Sideways View
Standing View

Summary

  • The Estrela Mountain Dog is a large, loyal and protective breed that originated in Portugal, where they were used as livestock guardians. They are affectionate with family, but require experienced owners due to their independent nature and strong guarding instincts.

Origin and Purpose

  • Developed in the Estrela Mountains of Portugal as a livestock guardian. Used to protect flocks from predators and herd livestock.

Appearance

Dimensions

GenderHeightWeight
Female24-27 inches (62-69 cm)77-110 pounds (35-50 kg)
Male25.5-29 inches (65-74 cm)92-132 pounds (42-60 kg)

Coat

AttributeNotes
Color
  • Fawn
  • Brindle
  • Gray
  • Wolf Gray
  • Yellow
  • Often with shaded or white markings
Type
  • Double coat
Length
  • Long
  • Short

Care

AttributeNotes
Shedding
  • Moderate to High
Grooming
  • Regular brushing required
Drooling
  • Low

Body

AttributeNotes
Head
  • Large, strong, and well-proportioned
Skull
  • Broad and slightly rounded
Ears
  • Small, triangular, set high and hanging
Eyes
  • Dark amber to brown, oval-shaped
Nose
  • Black
Muzzle
  • Straight and proportionate to the skull
Teeth
  • Scissors bite
Neck
  • Short, strong, and well-muscled
Forequarters
  • Well-developed and muscled
Fore Legs
  • Straight and strong
Hindquarters
  • Well-muscled and powerful
Hind Legs
  • Strong and straight
Feet
  • Large, oval-shaped and well-padded
Tail
  • Long, thick, and curved at the tip, reaching to the hocks
Gait
  • Powerful and effortless

Temperament

  • Loyal, intelligent, independent, and protective

Social

AttributeNotes
Affectionate with Family
  • Very affectionate with family
Good with Children
  • Good with children, especially when raised together
Good with Dogs
  • Can be good with other dogs if socialized properly
Good with Cats
  • Can be good with cats if raised together
Openness to Strangers
  • Reserved with strangers, may be aloof
Playfulness Level
  • Moderate
Protective Nature
  • Very protective, strong guardian instincts
Adaptability Level
  • Moderate; Needs space and not suited for small apartments

Working Roles

  • Livestock guarding, property protection

Exercise Needs

  • Moderate; Requires daily walks and opportunities to roam

Health

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Elbow dysplasia
  • Progressive retinal atrophy
  • Gastric torsion (bloat)

Additional Notes

  • Early socialization and training are crucial. Can be dominant and willful. Requires experienced owners.

References