Portuguese Sheepdog Breed

The Portuguese Sheepdog is a member of the Herding group of breeds, and was developed in the mountainous regions of Portugal as a livestock shepherd. As such, members of this breed have been utilized as working farm dogs since the breed was first created, but Caos have become increasingly popular as family pets in Europe since the beginning of the 21st century.

Some breed specifications: Caos are medium-sized (height at the shoulders is 16-22 inches, and weight is 25-45 pounds), with long-haired, wavy coats that include abundant facial furnishings. Here are some good (and not so good) qualities of this rare breed:

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The Portuguese Sheepdog was developed by Portuguese farmers to be a livestock herding dog--and in both physical makeup and temperament, this breed exemplifies its purpose. With agile and durable bodies, and playful yet dominant demeanors, Caos make reliable working farm animals--and excellent family pets as well.

Dogs of this breed are exceptionally intelligent, and can perform difficult, complex tasks as well as any breed known. They must, however, have a trainer whom they absolutely respect. If taught with firmness and authority, Caos will learn quickly and well; if, on the other hand, they don't hold their trainer in high regard, they can be dominant and disrespectful. But a well-trained Portuguese Sheepdog is a brilliant animal, and will make a fantastic working dog.

Despite these bossy tendencies, Caos are also known for their playfulness. Canine experts often describe them as having "monkey-like" personalities, in that they're goofy and rambunctious at play. Thus they're typically great with children, though some socialization with kids may be needed to minimize any bossy behavior.

And as herding dogs, Caos have exceptional stamina. While not blessed with brute strength, these dogs have plenty of energy, and will require a lot of daily exercise; the good news is that they make great jogging companions!

As a rare breed, potential health issues for the Portuguese Sheepdog are largely unknown. It is believed, though, that these dogs may suffer from some of the same ailments as other similar medium-sized herding breeds, including hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and various eye issues.

Life expectancy for this breed is 12-15 years.