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The Canine Chronicles Directory
Cao De Castro Laboreiro
The Cao De Castro Laboreiro (aka Portuguese Cattle Dog) is a strongly built, mastiff-type
dog. The head is slightly long and rectangular in shape. The skull is rather broad
and flat on top, with a slight stop. The muzzle is long, strong and tapers in width
from the eyes to the nose, but is never pointed. The large nose is always black
with well-opened nostrils. The teeth should meet in a scissor bite. The medium-sized
eyes are almond-shaped and come in varying shades of brown. The neck is straight,
short, clean and carried proudly. The chest is fairly deep and oval in shape and
the back is straight. The front legs are long and straight and the hindquarters
are extremely muscular. The round feet are large with arched toes and thick pads.
The tail is set high and is thick at the base. The sabre-shaped tail is well furnished
on the underside. The coat of this breed is short, thick, coarse and weather resistant.
Colors include wolf in all shades from very light to very dark.
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Temperament
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The Cao De Castro Laboreiro is a loyal and obedient herd guardian. They are intelligent,
dominant and fearless. The Laboreiro is a docile friend to its owners but some may
be aggressive towards strangers. This breed is trustworthy and very tolerant of
the children within its own family. Anyone that the Laboreiro does not know is considered
suspicious and must be watched very closely. They will only take orders from their
owners and will not tolerate a stranger telling them what to do. Though not a very
vocal breed, they will bark if they feel something is wrong. The Laboreiro needs
a very dominant owner who can be respected by the breed instead of being feared.
They need an experienced trainer with a firm hand.
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Height, Weight
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Male Height: 21-24" ; Weight: 50-75 lbs.
Female Height: 20-23" ; Weight: 50-75 lbs.
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Health Problems
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There are no reported health issues or concerns for this breed.
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Living Conditions
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The Laboreiro is not suited to indoor living. They do best with a large and secure
yard. Because of its thundering bark, a country home or understanding neighbors
may be best.
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Exercise
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This breed requires abundant daily exercise as well as a job to do.
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Life Expectancy
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About 12-13 years
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Grooming
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Regular brushing is required.
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Origin
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The Laboreiro's place of origin is in the very northern tip of Portugal where he
took his name from the small village of Castro Laboreiro meaning "village of the
laborers". The Laboreiro protects herds from wolves, and is also used as a guard
dog and police dog. The Cao De Castro Laboreiro was recognized by the United Kennel
Club in 2006.
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Group
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Guardian
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