Estrela Mountain Dog

Characteristics of Estrela Mountain Dog

Brief information

• Smart;
• Strong physically;
• Independent and stubborn;
• distrustful of strangers;
• Loyal to the owner.

Origin story

The Estrel Sheepdog is considered the most ancient breed on the Iberian Peninsula. Most experts suggest that her ancestors came to the territory of Portugal during the time of the Roman Empire. These descendants of Asiatic Molossians were used by people to protect livestock and dwellings, 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 neither seen nor heard of. 

However, with the development of technological progress and, in particular, communications, as well as with some change in people’s attitudes towards pets, the popularity of the Estrel Shepherd Dogs has grown dramatically. From the beginning of the 20th century, cynologists seriously took up selection, dogs of new colors were bred, and in 1934 the official breed standard was adopted. In 1955, the Estrel Sheepdog was included to the IFF list. But, despite the fact that there are a lot of such dogs in Portugal, they are poorly known outside the country.

Description

A large, powerful, strong build dog, commanding respect already because of its size alone. Bitches are slightly smaller than males. There are two types – short-haired (not common) and long-haired. The body format 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, hanging. In the old days they were usually stopped, now the standard does not require this. The long-haired estrelians have a saber-shaped tail, solid, very fluffy, with a tassel.

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 wolf, gray and gray with yellowness, fawn, red, there are black and brindle dogs. The undercoat is a tone or two lighter than the top coat. The black “mask” on the muzzle is considered a plus.

Character

Self-confident, genetically trained to make independent decisions, a bold, dominating dog. From a puppy of the Estrel shepherd dog, an ideal, faithful and understanding owner will grow up from a half-word guard and protector – but only if the owner is serious to educate him. Otherwise, the instinct cultivated for centuries, telling the dog that a stranger in a protected area is an enemy, will work at the most inopportune moments, which can lead to big troubles.

Estrela Mountain Dog Care

The main care, of course, for wool. She needs attention brush your dog weekly, during periods of seasonal molting even more often. But the result will be great. bathe the sheepdog follows as needed, not often, when combing out the dirt is perfectly removed from the coat. Do not forget check the cleanliness of the ears- since the ears-envelopes tend to accumulate secretions.

Conditions of detention

This breed is for country keeping. In a city apartment, a shaggy giant will be cramped and hot, and it will be difficult to cope with hypodynamia. But a house with a plot – that’s it. 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 rain or snow.

Prices

There are few specialized local kennels, so it is quite difficult to find a puppy. But in their homeland, Estrel Shepherds are common, and you can always choose the right dog. The price of a puppy is 400-700 euros.

Estrela Mountain Dog – Video