The Portuguese Sheepdog is a herding dog breed originating from Portugal. This dog is particularly valued for its herding skills, intelligence, and dedication to its work and family.
The Cão da Serra de Aires is a medium-sized, well-proportioned, and muscular dog. Males typically stand between 45 and 55 cm at the withers, while females stand between 42 and 52 cm. Their weight ranges from 17 to 27 kg. This dog has a solid body with a deep chest, straight back, and strong, well-muscled limbs. Its head is proportional with a slightly domed skull and a straight, elongated muzzle. The eyes are medium-sized, oval, and dark brown, expressing a lively and intelligent look. The ears are set high, medium-sized, and naturally drop against the head.
The coat of the Cão da Serra de Aires is long, dense, and slightly wavy, providing good protection against the weather. The texture of the hair is similar to goat hair, which requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling. The coat colors can vary and include yellow, brown, gray, fawn, and black, often with white markings on the chest and feet.
In terms of personality, the Cão da Serra de Aires is known for being intelligent, vigilant, and extremely dedicated to its work. It is also very affectionate and loyal to its family. Although it may be reserved with strangers, it is generally sociable and friendly once it gets to know someone. This dog is very energetic and needs plenty of exercise to stay mentally and physically healthy. Its intelligence and desire to please make it relatively easy to train, although it can sometimes show a degree of independence.
The Cão da Serra de Aires is generally a robust breed, but like all dogs, it can be prone to certain health problems. Common issues include hip dysplasia and certain eye diseases. A balanced diet, regular veterinary care, and adequate physical activity are essential for maintaining overall health. Due to its dense coat, it is also important to monitor for parasites and conduct regular inspections.
