Dogs
Castro Laboreiro-Hund
Other names: Dog of Castro Laboreiro, Chien de Castro Laboreiro, Castro Laboreiro-Hund
- Origin
- Portugal
- Size
- Large
- Height · Male
- 58–64 cm
- Height · Female
- 55–61 cm
- Weight · Male
- 30–40 kg
- Weight · Female
- 25–35 kg
- Life expectancy
- 10–12 years
- FCI
- FCI group 2 · 2 · n.º 170
Traits
Social
Guarding
Temperament
A loyal and docile companion to its family, it is essential in flock protection against wolf attacks which, in the breed?s area of origin, are still very frequent. Due to its constant vigilance, it is an ideal sentinel of property entrusted to it, patrolling it frequently. Of noble nature. Very agile and active, it can show some hostility, without being quarrelsome. It has a characteristic alarm bark, starting with a deep sound, rising to low-pitched and ending in prolonged high-pitched sounds.
History
One of the most ancient breeds in the Iberian Peninsula, it owes its name to the village of Castro Laboreiro, located in the Melgaço municipality in the extreme north of Portugal, where it comes from. It is a rustic mountainous area, ranging from the Minho River to the Peneda and Soajo Mountains with altitudes of up to 1400 m. It is delimited by the Minho, Trancoso, Laboreiro and Mouro rivers.
Care
The Cao de Castro Laboreiro breed is not recommended for city or apartment living. The Cao de Castro Laboreiro must be in a rural setting with a job to do and ample space to safely roam.
Health
Regular brushing to remove loose and dead hair is recommended for the Cao de Castro Laboreiro. Bathing should only be done when absolutely necessary. Due to the rarity of this breed there are no known health issues.