Portuguese Sheepdog

Origins and History

The Portuguese Sheepdog (Cão de Pastor Português) is a native herding breed of Portugal. Its origins trace back to the 19th century when it was developed by shepherds in the northern regions of the country to drive and protect livestock in rugged terrain. The breed was formally recognized by the Portuguese Kennel Club (GK) in 1932 and accepted by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) under standard No. 226. Though never a widespread working breed outside Portugal, it gained international attention after being exhibited at the 1938 World Dog Show in Paris.

General Characteristics

• Medium‑sized, well‑balanced, and agile with a square‑proportioned frame.
• Intelligent, eager to please, and highly responsive to consistent, positive training.
• Originally bred for herding sheep and cattle; today excels in obedience, agility, and other performance sports.

Physical Specifications

• Height (at withers): Males 45‑55 cm (18‑22 in); Females 43‑53 cm (17‑21 in).
• Weight: Proportionate to height, typically 14‑20 kg (30‑44 lb).

Coat and Color

• Medium‑length double coat; harsh, straight outer hair over a soft, dense undercoat. Tail and ears may have longer fringe.
• Accepted colors: fawn, wolf‑grey, black, and brown, each solid or with white markings on the chest, toes, or tail tip. No merle or piebald patterns are permitted.

Temperament Considerations

The Portuguese Sheepdog is naturally alert and possesses a strong herding instinct. It thrives on mental challenges and can become bored if under‑stimulated, leading to nuisance behaviors such as nipping or excessive barking.

Training Essentials

• Early socialization with people, children, and other animals is essential to temper the breed’s protective tendencies.
• Daily exercise of at least 60 minutes, including vigorous play, obedience work, or agility to satisfy its high energy level.
• Consistent, reward‑based methods work best; harsh corrections may trigger fear‑based reactions.

Daily Grooming

• Brush the coat 2‑3 times per week with a slicker brush or a pin brush to remove loose hair and prevent matting.
• Bathing only as needed (typically every 6‑8 weeks) to preserve natural oils.
• Trim nails regularly; check ears weekly for debris and clean gently.

Show Preparation

• Begin a full coat trim 2‑3 weeks before the show to achieve the breed‑standard length and to remove dead hair.
• Perform a final hand‑strip of the tail and ear fringe the day before the ring to enhance the harsh outer texture.
• Apply a light, non‑oil‑based conditioner on the day of the show to add shine without weighing the coat down.

Common Health Issues

• Hip dysplasia – recommended hip radiographs at 12‑18 months.
• Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) – DNA testing available through accredited labs.
• Hereditary cataracts – regular ophthalmologic examinations.
• Epilepsy and hypothyroidism – monitor for seizures or weight changes; annual blood work recommended.

General Care

• Provide at least 60 minutes of vigorous exercise daily to maintain musculoskeletal health.
• Feed a high‑quality, age‑appropriate diet; maintain body condition score between 4‑5 on a 9‑point scale.
• Average lifespan 12‑14 years; regular veterinary check‑ups and preventive care extend longevity.