Estrela Mountain DogCharacteristics, history, training and care

The FCI standard says this dog developed from very ancient times in the Serra da Estrela mountains, and its true origin has been lost over time. It can be considered one of the oldest breeds of the Iberian Peninsula. It climbs from the foothills almost to the summit, at about 2,000 m, especially in summer, when the flocks look for green pastures.

Its qualities were gradually recognised, and from the second half of the 20th century the breed spread all over the world. Wikipedia says the Portuguese breed association was founded in Lisbon in December 1986 and that in the 21st century some dogs protect flocks from the Iberian wolf, itself a protected species.

How the breed developed

• Since ancient times – The dogs guard the flocks of the Serra da Estrela.
• 23 June 1955 – The FCI recognises the breed.
• Second half of the 20th century – The breed spreads around the world.
• December 1986 – The Portuguese breed association is founded.
• 4 November 2008 – the current FCI standard is published.

Indicative rating: 5 stars means the highest level. It is based on the ratings the American Kennel Club gives the breed and on the FCI standard.

The standard describes it as a large, rustic and massive mastiff-type molossoid, with a lively gait and an impressive bearing. There are two coat varieties: long and short. The gaze is lively, calm and expressive.

General appearance

The head is strong, voluminous and long. The AKC says the breed has a few distinctive features: “rose” ears, a black mask and a hook at the end of the tail. The thick coat is similar in texture to goat hair.

The typical colours are yellow, fawn and grey, solid, in all shades, wolf grey or brindle. A dark mask on the face is typical. White markings are allowed only in small areas specified by the standard, such as the tips of the feet.

The standard describes it as the shepherd's inseparable companion and the faithful guardian of the flock, a wonderful guard dog for farm and home, distrustful of strangers and docile with its owner.

The AKC says socialisation and training from puppyhood are very important, so that its naturally dominant nature does not turn into aggression. With its family, and especially with children it knows, it can be very playful.

Tips for effective training

• Socialise it as a puppy. The AKC says this is very important given its dominant nature.
• Be calm and consistent. Such a big dog needs a confident owner.
• Introduce guests. It is distrustful of strangers.
• Teach it tricks. The AKC recommends tricks as exercise in bad weather.

The AKC says it is a relatively calm breed. If it is not working with a flock, play in a fenced yard and daily walks are enough. In bad weather it can exercise indoors, with a ball or by learning new tricks.

Tips for a balanced life

• It is not suited to flat life.
• The fence must be solid and high.
• Keep a cloth to hand: it drools quite a lot.

Coat and skin care

The AKC says the thick coat, like goat hair, needs weekly brushing and an occasional bath. The nails grow quickly and must be trimmed regularly.

Common health problems

The AKC says most dogs are healthy, and good breeders have their dogs genetically tested. As with any very large dog, the following are worth watching:

Other care

• Trim the nails regularly: they grow quickly.
• Check the ears and teeth weekly.
• Look for ticks after days spent outdoors.

For such a big dog, the portion should be set according to its actual weight. Puppies need food for giant breeds, so that they grow slowly and steadily.

Tips for a healthy diet

The table gives a starting estimate, calculated with the formula from the Merck Veterinary Manual. The first two calorie columns show the calories per day for a healthy adult dog. The last column shows what this means in dry food with 3,500–4,000 kcal per kilogram.

• Split the food into two meals a day to reduce the risk of bloat.
• Do not let it run right after a meal.
• A dog is at the right weight when you can feel its ribs under the coat without pressing hard.

Foods to avoid

Some human foods are dangerous for dogs: chocolate, coffee, grapes and raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol (a sweetener used in chewing gum), macadamia nuts and alcohol.

Physical and emotional maturity

In dogs, sexual maturity usually comes between 6 and 12 months, but in large breeds it can be delayed until about two years. Very large breeds become adults only at around 2 years.

Mating and pregnancy

Pregnancy lasts about 63 days, counted from ovulation. Mating a female on her first heat is not recommended. The FCI standard requires that only healthy dogs of typical breed appearance are used for breeding.

Caring for the puppies

In large breeds, a litter has around 7 puppies on average. The puppies grow very fast, so they need growth food suited to large breeds. Socialisation starts in the first weeks.

• A goat-hair coat. Its coat has the texture of goat hair.
• A hook in the tail. The tail has a distinctive hook at the end.
• It climbs to 2,000 m. In summer it goes up with the flocks almost to the mountain tops.
• Protecting the wolf by protecting the flock. Wikipedia says it guards flocks from the Iberian wolf, a protected species.
• Two coat types. There is a long-haired and a short-haired variety.

Where does the Estrela Mountain Dog come from?

From the Serra da Estrela mountains, in central Portugal.

How big does it get?

Males measure 65–73 cm and weigh 45–60 kg; females measure 62–69 cm and weigh 35–45 kg.

Is it good with children?

The AKC says it loves children and its family, if it is properly socialised.

How long does it live?

The AKC gives 10–14 years.