Cao de Castro Laboreiro

Portuguese heritage runs deep in the fascinating breed known as Cao de Castro Laboreiro. These dogs, who were originally bred to defend livestock in the untamed Serra da Estrela mountains, are renowned for their strength, agility, and intelligence. They are devoted and protective by nature because of their guardian heritage, which makes them excellent companions for both farm animals and families.

The Cao de Castro Laboreiro is a striking animal with a strong build, a thick coat, and expressive eyes that convey their acute awareness. These dogs make excellent watchdogs because they are not only physically impressive but also have a remarkable ability to assess situations. They do best in settings where they can be active and involved because of their strong instincts and independent nature.

With strangers, they can be reserved, but when they are around family, they become playful and affectionate. They must receive early socialization and training in order to mature into well-rounded pets. The right owner can reap many benefits from the Cao de Castro Laboreiro, regardless of whether they are seeking a devoted companion or an active playmate.

General characteristics

The origin is linked to the name Cao de Castro Laboreiro. "Dog from Castro Laboreiro" is the translation. It originates from this Portuguese mountain village. Castro Laboreiro, Portuguese Shepherd Dog, and Portuguese Watchdog are some other names for it.

This breed provides universal service. Cattle can be herded and protected from predators by it. Dogs protect both property and territory. Their distinctive bark serves as a deterrent to would-be invaders. It starts with deep bass notes, shifts to high-pitched notes, and ends with a howl.

Pros

Cao de Castro Laboreiro makes a great friend and guard. He is a devoted person who is calm, obedient, and patient, making him a good fit for families with kids. Additionally, owners highlight the following benefits of these dogs:

• hard-working, hardy;
• unpretentious;
• do not require serious care;
• smart, obedient;
• calm, rarely bark;
• love children, can be a nanny;
• smart, easy to train;
• have pronounced guard and protective instincts;
• have good health.

Disadvantages

Although it can adapt to any situation, this service dog is not fit for a city life. However, it requires room and the chance to carry out its routine duties of defending the land and safeguarding the owner. This breed should not be adopted by inexperienced dog owners or those who are unable to give their pet enough physical activity. Members of the breed also suffer from a number of additional drawbacks:

• independent character;
• tendency to stubbornness and dominance;
• can be aggressive towards strangers;
• need early socialization and serious education;
• are very rare and expensive.

The history of the origin of the breed

The breed originated in Portugal’s northern mountainous region. This location has long been remote and challenging to get to. As a result, not much is known about the dogs’ original homeland. Their ancestors are thought to have been Molossians from Asia, who the Romans brought to the nation. Based on their appearance, some researchers estimate that this breed is among the oldest, dating back 5-7 thousand years BC.

These big shepherd dogs weren’t crossed with any other breeds or specially bred. However, the owners picked the healthiest, most resilient, and unafraid to face an animal. They served as shepherd dogs, kept an eye out for bears and wolves, guarded the home, and shielded the proprietors from would-be thieves.

It wasn’t until the early 1900s that breeders started to take an interest in the breed. It was no longer in much demand as a shepherd or cattle protector. These dogs were farm guards, army veterans, and household pets. They were initially displayed as Cao de Castro Laboreiro at an exhibition in 1914.

A breed standard was created and approved by the Portuguese Kennel Club in 1935. Only twenty years later, the FCI gave it official recognition; as of right now, neither the USA nor the UK clubs have done the same. Portugal now considers this breed to be a national treasure. Though rare outside of this country, it is well-liked here.

Appearance standards

Castro Laboreiro is a canine with a strong, muscular, and balanced build. The weight is 25–40 kg, and the height is average or slightly above average, ranging from 55 to 64 cm. Although the physique is not heavy, athletic, or rectangular in shape, it does belong to the molosser group. It is comparable to the Labrador Retriever in this regard. It is possible to observe the following aspects of appearance:

• the head is proportional to the body, the skull is convex, the stop is smooth;
• the muzzle is not wide, elongated;
• the bridge of the nose is straight, the nostrils are large, black;
• eyes are oval, dark, set wide apart;
• ears are hanging, triangular, medium in size, set high;
• neck is not long, without dewlap;
• chest is voluminous, deep, belly is tucked up;
• loin is short and wide, croup is slightly raised;
• host is long, set high, held straight or takes on a saber-like shape;
• limbs are muscular, straight, set parallel;
• paws are compact, rounded, presence of dewclaws is allowed;
• coat fits tightly, short, hard to the touch, forms small fringes on legs and tail;
• coat is thick, has waterproof properties;
• wolf or brindle color, common colors: gray, red, black, brown, there may be a dark mask on the muzzle.

In the images of this breed of dog:

Portugal produced the amazing Cao de Castro Laboreiro dog breed, which is renowned for its loyalty and protectiveness. This breed, which was initially developed to protect cattle, is smart and powerful, making it a great family pet. The Cao de Castro Laboreiro breed, with its unique appearance and endearing nature, is a combination of beauty and functionality that thrives on exercise and companionship.

Character and upbringing

These dogs’ dominant personality trait is a strongly manifested protective instinct. They never initiate the attack, are not inclined to engage in confrontations, and are not aggressive. However, they take immediate action if they witness anything endangering the proprietors or the protected area.

However, the Castro Laboreiro family is peaceful, considerate, and submissive. It is hard to aggravate them because of their calm temperament. They develop close, loving bonds with every member of the family. They have a great deal of patience and gentleness for children. A child will never suffer harm from this dog, and it will shield him from harm.

An amateur dog breeder should not attempt this breed. This is a capable, independent, and self-sufficient guard dog. Appropriate training is necessary. Training must begin early, demonstrating to the puppy that the owner is the leader right away. The dog is well-trained when the proper method is used. It is obedient and intelligent; it recalls commands with ease. It is advised to use it to go through ZKS and OKD and to frequently visit dog parks.

This breed of dog is used to freedom; they require room. They will thus have limited space in an apartment. However, they can be kept in cities as long as they walk briskly and take frequent trips outside. However, a private home with a plot seems to suit them better; just make sure the dog isn’t chained up.

Short hair requires little maintenance; just brush it once or twice a week. It is advised to use a furminator twice a year during shedding. It is not advised to bathe frequently; instead, wash the paws and belly after walks.

The ears are the Castro Laboreiro’s weak point. Veterinarian lotion should be used to clean them at least once every week. In addition, you should periodically brush the pet’s teeth, examine its eyes, and trim its claws as necessary.

The Castro Laboreiro can be fed both natural food and premium dry food. Don’t overindulge; serve food at the table. Eatables that are high in fat, spice, and sugar are forbidden. Food ought to be high in protein. Giving kefir, veggies, and porridge is beneficial.

A remarkable breed with a rich history, the Cao de Castro Laboreiro embodies strength and loyalty. These Portuguese-bred dogs were originally employed as guardians of livestock, demonstrating their strong familial bonds and protective nature. They are a capable protector and a devoted friend due to their special combination of independence and affection.

These dogs do best in situations that allow them to exercise their bodies and minds. Their happiness and well-being are largely dependent on socialization and regular exercise. They can blend in perfectly with a family environment with the right training and attention, offering happiness and company in addition to acting as watchful guardians.

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