Estrela Mountain Dog (Estrela Mountain Dog)
The Estrela Shepherd is a large herding dog that originated in Portugal. It is the oldest breed on the Iberian Peninsula. It is very popular in its homeland, but is rare abroad. The Estrela Shepherd is courageous, energetic, and obedient, with strong watchdog and guard qualities. It requires rigorous training. Other names: Estrela Mountain Dog, Estrela Sennenhund.
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History of origin
The Estrela Mountain Dog (Portuguese: Cão da Serra da Estrela) has historically inhabited the mountainous regions of northern Portugal, in the Serra de Estrela region. Its origins are not fully understood. The first official standard was written in 1933. The breed was recognized by the International Cynological Association in 1955 under the name Estrela Mountain Dog.
Purpose
In Portugal, Estrela Shepherds are still used for their original purpose, as loyal shepherd companions. They fearlessly protect their territory and charges from wolves and intruders. They can also serve as bodyguards and home guards. They were also previously used as draft dogs.
Appearance
The Estrela Shepherd is a large, yet harmonious, proportionally built dog. Its body is moderately elongated. Sexual dimorphism is well-defined.
- Height at the withers of males is 65-73 cm; weight is 45-60 kg.;
- Height at the withers of bitches is 62-60 cm; weight is 35-45 kg.
The head is of good size, strong, and long. The skull is well developed. The stop is slightly defined. The muzzle is long, tapering toward the tip, not pointed. The bridge of the nose has a slight hump. The tip of the nose is preferably black. The lips are clearly defined, large, but not too thick or overhanging. The mucous membrane of the palate and the edges of the lips are darkly pigmented. The bite is a scissors. The eyes are oval, small, set straight, and well open. The eyelids are tight-fitting and black. The ears are relatively small, thin, triangular, hanging, and fall back on the sides of the head. The neck is straight, thick, short, and has a slight dewlap.
The body is proportionate and moderately elongated. The back is short, almost level. The loin is wide and short. The croup is sloping. The chest is rounded and broad, its depth less than 1/2 the height at the withers. The underline is slightly tucked up. The tail is of natural length, thick, saber-shaped, and curls into a hook at the end. When moving or excited, the dog raises it above the line of the back, but even in this position, it does not touch the croup. When standing calmly, the limbs are straight, vertical, with strong bone, developed muscles, and moderately pronounced angulation. The paws are proportional, not too rounded, but not long either. The toes are arched, and the hair between the pads forms dense brushes. The nails are black and strong.
The coat is thick, dense, and not too harsh. Its texture resembles goat hair. The undercoat is dense, short, and lighter in color than the topcoat. It intertwines with the outer coat at the roots. There are two types of Estrela Shepherds, depending on their coat length:
- Longhaired - the coat is straight or slightly wavy. It varies in length on different parts of the body. On the head, pasterns, and forearms, it is shorter and thicker. On the ears, it is even shorter, thinner, and softer. The tail is fluffy, ending in a tuft. There is a mane around the neck and throat. On the back of the forearms and thighs, there are featherings. On the back, the hair is parted, forming a parting.
- Shorthaired – short hair evenly covers the dog's body. There is no feathering. The hair on the hocks, head, and forearms is slightly shorter.
Colors:
- solid color (wolf, fawn, gray, yellow);
- brindle (fawn, grey, yellow with dark brindle markings).
All colors are characterized by a dark mask on the head. Minor white markings on the throat, chest, and paws are permitted.
Character and behavior
The Estrela Shepherd is even-tempered, calm, self-confident, and dignified. She is extremely devoted to her owner and family. She shows marked concern for all animals within her care. She is always alert, quiet, and attentive. She is determined in all matters of protection. She has an excellent memory and is highly intelligent.
The Estrela Shepherd is quite large, but at the same time athletic and agile, capable of engaging in a fight with a wolf and reacting with lightning speed to approaching danger.
They are highly territorial and wary of strangers, making them excellent guard dogs. Like any other dog, the Estrela Shepherd is always eager for attention, but they are unobtrusive and will quietly wait for their owner to return home while fulfilling their duties. They are independent and self-sufficient enough to remain alone with the flock if the shepherd wanders off. Of course, behavior depends largely on upbringing and training, as well as the owner's attitude toward the dog.
Among other things, the Estrela Shepherd is a wonderful family dog and a loyal companion. It gets along well with children and is tolerant of their antics. It is instinctively protective of children and does not allow them to stray from its territory.
Estrela Shepherd training begins early, with particular attention paid to socialization. Independent and somewhat willful, this dog requires consistent leadership and is prone to aggressive behavior. It's not the best choice for an inexperienced owner.
Content Features
The Estrela Mountain Dog thrives in a private home, farm, or estate, where it has a job to do, a space to roam, and close contact with its owner. It's crucial for it to have ample space to roam and receive adequate exercise, which it can manage independently. The Estrela Mountain Dog is not suited to apartment living or short walks.
Care
They don't require much grooming. Occasionally, they need to be brushed to remove overgrown hair and enhance their beauty. Short-haired dogs shed moderately, while long-haired dogs shed heavily. The hair between the paw pads is sometimes trimmed. Ears should be inspected weekly and cleaned if necessary. Nails, eyes, and teeth should also be maintained.
Health and life expectancy
The breed is considered healthy. There is a predisposition to hip and elbow dysplasia. No other hereditary diseases are known. To maintain health, it is important to remember disease prevention. parasite treatments and pay attention to nutrition, especially during the growth period. Life expectancy is 11-12 years.
Where to buy an Estrela Shepherd puppy
The majority of Estrela Mountain Dogs are found in Portugal. However, there are also breeders in other European countries and the United States. A few dogs are also found in Russia. When choosing and purchasing a puppy, it's best to find a knowledgeable, reputable breeder. Contact information for breeders and information about planned litters can be found at the Estrela Mountain Dog Breeders League or the Portuguese Kennel Club.
Price
In Portugal, the average price of an Estrela Shepherd puppy is €500. Puppies from private sellers typically cost no more than €200, while those from breeders cost €450 or more.
Photos and videos
You can see more photos of Estrela Shepherd dogs in the gallery.
Video about the Estrela Shepherd dog breed
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