Catalan Sheepdog Dog Breed

The Catalan Sheepdog is, as the breed's name states, a dog who herds sheep. They do much more, but this dog's primary function is to herd animals in the open fields. While they are not livestock guardian dogs (LGDs), they often perform that function too. As cute as they are — they do resemble much smaller and leaner Sheepdogs — they are not for first-time dog owners, and they might even a handful even for seasoned dog owners. They get along well enough with most other dogs as well as mature kids, but they can be bossy and have habit of herding things that they feel are out of place, such a your shoes, the neighbor's kids, and a cat sleeping in the "wrong" place!

Here are some ups and downs regarding the Catalan Sheepdog:

The Catalan Sheepdog is a hardworking animal whose small size can be deceptive regarding the hardiness, agility, and versatility of this breed. They are highly trainable for many types of work, and they have have been used as messengers during war, guard dogs beyond the farm, and much more.

They have been bred for centuries to tend flocks and herds. While they they do need training, they possess a somewhat "shovel-ready" intelligence from an early age. They are able to work by themselves, and they learn very quickly. While they can seem stubborn, they will seek to please right person.

The Catalan Sheepdog is not given to separation anxiety, but they do prefer to be close to one person. Like any sheepdog, they'll be fine on they own for long periods of time. For the master that they have a hand in choosing, however, they will be at that person's side as much as possible.

These dogs are remarkably strong for their size. They are sheep dogs, after all, and they are expected to keep stragglers from running off even as they guard against predators and remain aware of the the herd, flock, or group. These small Sheepdogs are extremely energetic too.

For all the hard work expected of and carried out by the Catalan Sheepdog, this is a very friendly, loyal, and calm breed. They tend to follow closely the master whom they have chosen. They are very guarded in the presence of strangers. These dogs can get along well enough with other dogs, but they may not get on well with all breeds. They might be specially aloof to dogs who have a high prey drive.

These dogs will tolerate children much like they do younger members of a herd or flock: they expect some unruliness, but they tend to, in time, assert themselves in a protective fashion. Their behavior won't be dangerous but mean to communicate "enough!" They won't nip, but they may push an overly playful child away with gentle head-butting. Unlike most small dogs, the Catalan Sheepdog temperament is one that tends to not include nipping or anxiety, however.

Centuries of careful breeding have helped the Catalan Sheepdog become and remain one of the healthier dog breeds. Allowed to work, kept on a proper diet, and brought up in a happy home, they should have few health issues. Like all dogs, however, they do have some risks that can occur due to old age, work injuries, and typical dog things. Because they spend a lot of time running and jumping, joint problems tend to top the list of this dog's ailments.

Here are some of the conditions that can occur in this Sheepdog breed:

• Epilepsy
• Glaucoma
• Hip dysplasia
• Patellar luxation
• Dental problems
• Congenital deafness
• Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)

The average lifespan of a Catalan Sheepdog is 12 to 14 years.