The Saint Miguel Cattle Dog is a large dog breed originating from the Azores in Portugal. This molossoid-type dog is renowned for its strength, endurance, and protective instinct, making it an excellent guard dog and a loyal companion.
The Saint Miguel Cattle Dog is a massive and robust dog. Males typically stand between 65 and 85 cm at the shoulder, while females stand between 60 and 75 cm. Their weight ranges from 40 to 55 kg for females and from 50 to 70 kg for males. Their body is well-proportioned, with powerful musculature and solid bone structure. The head is broad with a flat skull and prominent cheeks. The muzzle is short and wide, with slightly drooping lips. The eyes are medium-sized, dark brown or hazel in color, and convey an attentive and determined expression. The ears are medium-sized, drooping, and slightly V-shaped.
Males typically stand between 65 and 85 cm at the shoulder and weigh between 50 and 70 kg. Females stand between 60 and 75 cm at the shoulder and weigh between 40 and 55 kg.
The coat of the Saint Miguel Cattle Dog is short, dense, and rough to the touch. It is typically brindle, fawn, or black with brindle markings. The skin is thick and elastic, contributing to the breed's imposing appearance. Regular grooming is necessary to maintain the health and appearance of the coat, especially to remove dead hair and dirt.
The Saint Miguel Cattle Dog is known for its protective, courageous, and loyal temperament. It is extremely devoted to its family and makes an excellent guard dog. Although it can be reserved with strangers, it is not aggressive without reason. Its protective nature requires early socialization and training to ensure balanced behavior. With its family, it is affectionate and gentle, but it can be dominant and should be handled by an experienced owner who can establish clear authority.
The Saint Miguel Cattle Dog is generally a robust breed, but like all large breeds, it may be prone to certain health issues such as hip dysplasia, heart problems, and skin conditions. A balanced diet, regular veterinary care, and appropriate exercise are essential for maintaining overall health. It is also important to monitor joint issues and maintain a healthy weight to avoid complications.
The Saint Miguel Cattle Dog Puppy has a short coat, usually in fawn, brown, or brindle colors, with lighter shades on the belly and legs. This dog is known for its unwavering loyalty to its family and calm temperament, but it is also an excellent protector. From a young age, the Saint Miguel Cattle Dog puppy shows great alertness, and early socialization and training are important. With the right owner, it will grow into a calm, affectionate dog that is very attached to its family.
The price of a Saint Miguel Cattle Dog puppy typically ranges from 1,000 to 1,500 euros, depending on the lineage of the parents and the quality of the breed. It's essential to consider regular veterinary expenses and the specific needs for food and exercise to ensure good health for this large dog. A well-raised and well-cared-for puppy will become an excellent companion.
The São Miguel Cattle Dog, an energetic herding breed from the Azores, requires firm but balanced training. Its strong protective instinct and practical intelligence make it a special student.
Essential socialization from 3 months: gradually expose it to livestock, strangers and farm noises. Its lively temperament demands short sessions (10-15 min) but very regular.
Unlike other herding dogs, it combines ruggedness and sensitivity - harsh methods create distrust. Prioritize positive reinforcement with food rewards and tug games.
Key specificity: its training must channel its controlled biting instinct, inherited from ancestral cattle driving work. A well-trained São Miguel becomes an exceptional farm assistant.
