The Cao de Castro Laboreiro, or Dog
from Castro Laboreiro, or Portuguese Cattle Dog or Portuguese Watch Dog, is a
dog breed of the livestock guardian dog type, originating from Castro Laboreiro
in the northern mountains of Portugal.
Appearance
The
desired appearance for which the Cão de Castro Laboreiro has been bred is
somewhat wolflike 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 also 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. The mountain colour is a mixed
light and dark grey interspersed with individual hairs (not spots) that are
brown (called pine-seed) or dark red (called mahogany), in a brindle.
Health Issues
Health
issues specific to the breed have not been documented. Dogs represented as Cao
de Castro Laboreiro 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.
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