The Cao Fila de Sao Miguel (translated
literally as: Catch Dog of Sao Miguel Island) is a dog breed of molosser type
originating on São Miguel Island in the Azores, an island chain which is one of
the autonomous regions of Portugal. The breed was originally used for working
with cattle.
Appearance
A
large dog, but not oversize; up to a maximum of 60 cm (23.6 ins) at the withers
and 35 kg (77 lbs) in weight, with females slightly smaller. The general
appearance is of a normally proportioned, deep chested, muscular dog with a
broad head and medium length neck, straight back, and long legs. The tail is
held up and is slightly curved. Ears are drop unless they are cropped. The coat
is a brindle of brown (pale brown is described as fawn) or grey, with black; it
is short, smooth and harsh to the touch, with a short fringe on the tail (if
undocked) and on the backs of the rear legs.
Temperament
A
medium-sized working dog. As with all working dogs, it must be given regular
training and a job to do. Temperaments of individual dogs may vary greatly.
These dogs are family friendly and loving dogs, they like to cuddle and be near
their owners. Suitability of an individual dog for a particular kind of work
may depend on the quality of early training. This breed creates a deep bond
with its owner, being very gentle, loving and receptive. When trained well,
these dogs make fantastic family pets as they are highly intelligent and
docile.
Activities
Cão
Fila de São Miguel can compete in dog agility trials, obedience, flyball,
tracking, and herding events. Herding instincts and trainability can be
measured at noncompetitive herding tests. Azores Cattle Dogs exhibiting basic
herding instincts can be trained to compete in herding trials.
Health
Cão
Fila de São Miguel from Portugal have no documented health problems, but dogs
bred elsewhere are often bred to be very oversize (over 60 cm/23.6 in and 35
kg/77 lb) and may suffer and other ailments particular to deep-chested oversize
dogs, such as bloat.
Life
expectancy of the Cão Fila de São Miguel is approximately 15-years.
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