Castro Laboreiro Dog
Also known as: Cão de Castro Laboreiro , Portuguese cattle dog, Portuguese watchdog
The Castro Laboreiro Dog is a rare breed from Portugal, known for its distinctive appearance and strong herding instincts. The Castro Laboreiro Dog comes from Portugal. Individual Castro Laboreiro Dogs vary, so treat this as a general guide rather than a guarantee.
Breed at a glance
- Origin
- Portugal
- Other names
- Cão de Castro Laboreiro , Portuguese cattle dog, Portuguese watchdog
About the Castro Laboreiro Dog
The Castro Laboreiro Dog is a rare breed from Portugal, known for its distinctive appearance and strong herding instincts. Originating in the Castro Laboreiro region, it is a versatile working dog.
Overview
The Castro Laboreiro Dog ( Portuguese : cão de Castro Laboreiro , ''dog of Castro Laboreiro''), also known as the Portuguese cattle dog or Portuguese watchdog , is a dog breed of the livestock guardian type , originating from Castro Laboreiro in the northern mountains of Portugal .
History
The Portuguese name, meaning ''dog from Castro Laboreiro'', refers to a small town in the far north of Portugal, now a parish in the Melgaço urban area. It is in the same mountains as the Peneda-Gerês National Park . Although now served by modern highways, the mountainous, rocky area was once quite remote. The modern breed is descended from a very old livestock guardians , which worked with livestock herders in the mountains, defending against wolves and other large predators. The origin of the breed is not known, although many legends are given. The Portuguese breed club notes that "Everything that is written about their origins is pure fiction, without any scientific or historical accuracy ... data is rare, or does not exist ... most guardian and herding breeds do not have records before 1900". There are mentions of the Castro Laboreiro in the 19th century but none before 1800. Camilo Castelo Branco in his novella A Brasileira de Prazins (1882) mentions "the dogs of Castro Laboreiro, very fierce ..." Modern genetic studies have shown that the modern breed is unique from other similar breeds in Portugal. It is said to be "ferocious against wolves." With the eradication of wolves and other large predators the Castro Laboreiro Dog lost its original use. Changes in agricultural methods over the last hundred years led to many of these dogs being abandoned, turning feral and becoming a problem for those that raise cattle and horses. Today, the breed has mostly been removed from its native range and purpose, and is kept as a companion and guard dog. It was first exhibited at a dog show in 1914, and the first written breed standard was by veterinarian Manuel Marques in 1935, when the breed was recognised by the Clube Portugues de Canicultura, the official Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) kennel club for Portugal founded in 1897. The Castro Laboreiro Dog is recognised by the FCI in Group 2, Section 2.2: Mastiffs, Mountain Type, Portugal (breed number 150). It is also recognised, under its Portuguese name, by the United Kennel Club in the United States, in their Guardian dog group. It may also be listed under the name cão de Castro Laboreiro , similar-sounding names, or different English versions of the name (such as Portuguese cattle dog or Portuguese watchdog) by large commercial breeders, minor kennel clubs that require little to no breed verification for registration, and Internet-based dog registry businesses, where it is promoted as a rare breed for those seeking a fashionably novel or unique pet. Nevertheless, the number of specimens of this breed does not exceed 500 in the whole world. In Portugal, there are a half-dozen breeders, plus a couple more elsewhere in Europe (in United Kingdom and Germany), and one in the US.
Appearance
The standardised appearance for which the Castro Laboreiro Dog has been bred is somewhat wolf-like in outline. It is a large dog, but not oversize. Height should not be above 60 cm (24 in) at the withers and weight should not be more than 40 kg (88 lbs); females somewhat smaller. Coat colours are often described in wolf terms: "dark wolf colour", "light wolf colour". Most breeders prefer what is considered the most authentic, called "mountain colour" ( cor do monte ), also described as similar to the coat of a wolf, but a mixed light and dark grey interspersed with individual hairs (not spots) that are brown (called "pine-seed") or dark red (called "mahogany"), forming overall a brindle pattern.
Health issues
Health issues specific to the breed have not been documented. Dogs represented as Castro Laboreiros may be mixed with other breeds, which may have other genetic health problems. Puppy buyers should enquire of breeders about types of health testing done on the sire and dam; responsible breeders will be able to provide information. Being a "rare breed" does not guarantee immunity from inherited disease or disability.
Frequently asked questions
What are the key characteristics of the Castro Laboreiro Dog?
The Castro Laboreiro Dog is a medium-sized livestock guardian dog originating from Portugal. They are known for their distinctive appearance, with a rough, wiry coat and a broad, flat head. Adult Castro Laboreiro Dogs typically weigh between 25-40 kg and stand 45-55 cm tall at the shoulder.
Is the Castro Laboreiro Dog a good family dog?
As a livestock guardian dog, the Castro Laboreiro Dog is naturally protective of its family and territory. However, they can be wary of strangers and may require time to warm up to new people. With proper socialization and training, they can make loyal and loving family pets, especially for experienced dog owners.
What health problems do Castro Laboreiro Dogs have?
Like many breeds, the Castro Laboreiro Dog can be prone to certain health issues, including hip dysplasia and eye problems. Regular veterinary check-ups and genetic testing can help identify potential health issues early on. Additionally, their rough coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling.
How much does a Castro Laboreiro Dog puppy cost?
The cost of a Castro Laboreiro Dog puppy can vary depending on factors such as location, breeder reputation, and bloodline. On average, you can expect to pay between €500-€1,500 (approximately $550-$1,650 USD) for a puppy from a reputable breeder. However, prices may be higher or lower depending on your specific circumstances.
Where do Castro Laboreiro Dogs come from?
The Castro Laboreiro Dog comes from Portugal. The breed developed there before spreading to dog fanciers worldwide.
Related breeds
Breed information on this page is based on the Wikipedia article on the Castro Laboreiro Dog, supplemented with additional research. Reviewed for accuracy.