Estrela Mountain Dog is an ancient breed that has undergone rigorous natural selection. The dogs gained good health, endurance, developed both physically and intellectually. In their homeland in Portugal, these dogs are very popular, but outside the country, they are extremely rare. However, this does not mean that they do not deserve attention. Cynologists are sure that these shepherd dogs did not spread in the world for only one reason – the world simply did not know about these amazing animals.

History of the Breed

The Estrela Mountain Dog is considered the oldest breed in the Iberian Peninsula. Most experts assume that her ancestors came to the territory of Portugal during the time of the Roman Empire. These descendants of Asiatic Molossians were used by humans to guard livestock and homes, as well as to transport goods. Shaggy giants were kept mainly by villagers, using them for practical purposes, so for a long time, the breed was not in sight and not heard. However, with the development of technological progress and, in particular, communications, as well as with some changes in the attitude of people towards pets, the popularity of Estrela Mountain Dog has grown dramatically. Since the beginning of the 20th century, dog handlers have seriously taken up breeding, dogs of new colors were bred, and in 1934 the official breed standard was adopted. In 1955, the Estrel Shepherd Dog was included in the IFF list. But, despite the fact that there are a lot of such dogs in Portugal, they are poorly known outside the country.

Appearance

A large, powerful, robustly built dog that commands respect because of its size alone. Females are slightly smaller than males. There are two types – short-haired (not very common) and long-haired. The format of the body is rectangular, the head is large, the chest is wide, the legs are strong, muscular. The eyes are of medium size, the ears are triangular, drooping. In the old days, they were usually stopped, now the standard does not require this. In long-haired Australians, the tail is saber-shaped, solid, very fluffy, with a brush.

On the head and paws, the hair is thick and short, on the neck – a rich mane, on the limbs – feathers. The color can be a wolf, gray, and gray with yellowness, fawn, red, there are black-brindle dogs. The undercoat is a tone or two lighter than the guard hair. A black “mask” on the face is considered a plus.

Characteristics and Personality

Self-confident, genetically trained to make independent decisions, a bold, dominant dog. From the Estrela Mountain Dog puppy, an ideal, loyal, and understanding owner will grow up to be a guard and protector from a half-word – but only if the owner seriously engages in his upbringing. Otherwise, the instinct cultivated for centuries, telling the dog that a stranger is an enemy in a protected area, will work at the most inopportune moments, which can lead to major troubles.

Care and Maintenance

The main care, of course, is for the coat. It requires attention, it is advisable to comb the dog weekly, even more often during periods of seasonal molting. But the result will be great. The shepherd should be bathed as needed, not often; when combing out, the dirt is perfectly removed from the coat. Do not forget to check the cleanliness of the auricles – as the envelope ears tend to accumulate secretions.

This breed is for suburban keeping. In a city apartment, the shaggy giant will be cramped and hot, and it will be difficult to cope with physical inactivity. But a house with a plot is the very thing. These dogs are hard workers and will be happy to have territory and objects to guard. They can perfectly live on the street all year round, only from time to time leaving for a house or booth, where you can hide from the rain or snow.

Education and Training

Estrela Mountain Dog has a difficult character, she is willful and stubborn. The owner should take this into account as soon as the puppy crosses the threshold of the new home. Already on the first day, the owner needs to show the pet that it is he who is the main thing here, and subsequently, periodically remind the stubborn one. If this is not done, after a few months the owner will not be able to cope with the grown pet.

The dog must be socialized, it is desirable that he undergo a course of obedience. The owner will have to tune in too long, consistent, regular training. It is imperative to be persistent and patient, not to forget about praise and encouragement. You can’t be too soft, but the dog will not tolerate a rude, negligent attitude towards himself. Corporal punishment is also unacceptable in the education and upbringing of Australians, it will only embitter them.

Experts do not recommend starting such a pet for beginners, since this animal needs a strong hand, long walks, and exercises, as well as compulsory education and training. Not everyone will be able to drive Estrela Mountain Dog.

Health

Estrela Mountain Dog is hardy and adapted to live in any climatic conditions, it very rarely gets sick. However, like all large dogs, she has a tendency to hip dysplasia – a serious disease, with the progression of which the pet’s hind legs can fail.

In addition, dermatological diseases, cardiomyopathy, and volvulus are most often diagnosed in Estrela Mountain Do

How to Choose a Puppy

Future owners who are interested in a particular breed should look for a puppy only from trusted breeders and in kennels with an excellent reputation.

It is also better to “get acquainted” with the parents in order to have an idea of ​​the heredity of the future pet and to look at the conditions of keeping the mother with the babies. Cleanliness, ample space, quality food and toys, and timely vaccinations are undeniable evidence in favor of the breeder.

The Portuguese Mountain Shepherd Dog is a worthy representative of herding breeds, proud, freedom-loving, but at the same time unusually intelligent and loyal. Such a pet is not a toy, it needs to be educated, trained, and given attention, then the dog will become an excellent helper and favorite of the family.