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Cao De Serra De Aires

Cao De Serra De Aires
History:

Country/Date of Origin:Portugal/1800s

This is an old-fashioned type of sheepdog that has been used to herd livestock for many centuries. Some authorities believe that it is possibly descended from a pair of Briards that were imported into Portugal from France. It was not until about 1930 that the appearance of this dog became standardized. It is still used to work sheep in its homeland but is becoming popular as a show dog and house pet.

FCI Group: 1 (Herding)

 Other Names Body Type Personality Coat Health Concerns

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Portuguese Sheepdog

AKC Group: Miscellaneous

Breed Club:

Rescue Club:

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Body Type:

  • A medium sized shaggy dog that bears a strong resemblance to the Briard
  • Height: 16-20 inches (at shoulder)
  • Weight: 26-40 pounds
  • The long tail is slightly curved at the tip and is carried low. It is not altered
  • The medium size ears hang and are not usually altered

Personality:

  • Loyal and obedient
  • Suspicious of strangers
  • Intelligent

Coat:

  • Long, slightly wavy and of medium coarseness. There is no undercoat and the coat does not form cords as does the Puli and other sheepdogs of Eastern Europe
  • Has a beard and mustache of long hair as well as thick eyebrows
  • Allowed colors are any shade of fawn, yellow, brown, gray or black-and-tan
  • Parti colors are not permitted
  • Moderate grooming required

Health Concerns:

  • Generally very healthy
  • Possible hip dysplasia
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Tasty Tidbits:
  • Very active and quite clever it will herd anything from cattle to children
  • It is sometimes called the "monkey dog" in its homeland because of its unique facial expression
  • Responds well to obedience training
  • While it is becoming more popular in Europe it will not be easily found in the U.S.