The Portuguese Sheepdog is a medium-sized dog. It is also known as Cão da Serra de Aires and Serra de Aires Mountain dog. It is a herding dog that was originated in Portugal. They are rare breeds which are not found much outside their native land.

Portuguese Sheepdog is a very intelligent and devoted dog that do best as a family companion dog as well besides herding dog.

The Portuguese Sheepdog’s distinct feature is its long hair that covers its whole body including its face. However, it has not got any undercoat like other sheepdogs. It is a very clever dog that needs an active family in the countryside where it can do perform its regular activities openly. It does not do well in an apartment.

Temperament of the Portuguese Sheepdog

The temperament of the Portuguese Sheepdog is lively, active, and are extremely devoted. They are always eager to work so, they need an owner who is active and can meet their level of energy. It is a smart dog that tends to learn things quickly. They get along with other pets very well if they have been socialized from an early age.

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The Portuguese Sheepdog is a flock guardian dog, so their protective nature comes naturally. They are very loving of their family and will stand to protect them and their property from any threats or intruders. Therefore, they make a great guard dog and also a watchdog.

Personality of the Portuguese Sheepdog

The Portuguese Sheepdog has a high spirited personality. They are active and being a working dog, they need a good amount of exercise. They are independent workers and independent thinker Cão da Serra de Aires develops a strong bond with its owner and if they are left alone for a long time, it will face separation anxiety. Therefore, it is not a great idea to leave your dog for a long time.

Training Portuguese Sheepdog can be hard as it has a mind of its own and can be stubborn. Establish a firm and consistent leadership upon them from an early age. They need to see you as a leader and if you fail to do so, they will be your leader.

Use positive methods of training by rewarding them with treats and vocal praises. It will encourage and motivate them to be focused on the training.

Is Portuguese Sheepdog Child-Friendly?

Portuguese Sheepdog is child-friendly if raised with them from an early age. They are best suited with older children who know to handle the dog and behave around them. Small children can play rough by pulling and pinching. Therefore, while letting your Portuguese Sheepdog play with your small kids, supervision is necessary.

Portuguese Sheepdog get well with older children
A girl sitting with a Portuguese Sheepdog.
Image Source: Instagram-@serra_dos_pastores_kennel

What Makes Portuguese Sheepdog Aggressive?

Although Portuguese Sheepdogs are guard dogs and watchdogs, they rarely are aggressive. They are calm and do not show their aggression easily. If someone provokes them or treat them harshly, they are likely to be aggressive towards them. However, they will not bite and just give a angry bark to them.

How Does Portuguese Sheepdog Behave Around Strangers?

The Portuguese Sheepdog is reserved and wary of strangers. They do not trust them easily and inspect closely before letting some unfamiliar person into its territory. Socialize them with a variety of people from an early age, so that they become welcoming of visitors and guest in the house.

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