Castro laboreiro dog

Welcome to our page dedicated to the breed of dog castro laboreiro dog!

Here, you will find all the useful information about castro laboreiro dog. This descriptive profile will allow you to discover the aspects of this breed. You can notably consult information about the average price, monthly and annual upkeep expenses, their health, name ideas, as well as their official recognition by competent authorities.

Explore this page to discover everything you need to know.

Overall description of the breed

The Cao de Castro Laboreiro is a very old breed of dog from Portugal, named after the village where it was born centuries ago, "Castro Laboreiro", located in the heart of the municipality of Melgaço, bounded by the Minho rivers in the extreme north of the country.

Not very widespread outside its borders, we would even say outside its region, where it is particularly appreciated as a shepherd dog, especially for guarding and leading cattle herds.

He is a reliable, hardy and intelligent working partner, all qualities that give him a lot of credibility with farmers who frequently use him on their farms. In addition, this Portuguese Cattle Dog is increasingly in demand by families, its benevolent temperament and dynamic character make it an ideal companion for sporty owners.

The Cao de Castro Laboreiro was finally registered by the FCI on 24 May 1955 and the last update of the official standard in force was published on 4 November 2008.

These large, robust and hardy dogs have a balanced, powerful body and impressive stamina. They are strong-boned, but not heavy, and keep their movement light and supple thanks to their vigorous and particularly agile limbs. Versatile, he adapts easily to his environment, with the ability to work on all terrains and in all weathers.

Slightly longer than high, his body is rectangular with a broad chest and deep belly, while his belly is well tucked up. The topline is of medium length, straight and stocky. The head is of medium size, rather light than heavy, elongated and rectangular in shape, well proportioned overall, the skin is thick, but not wrinkled, the stop is absent.

Set high, the tail is strong at the base and of medium length. The coat of the Castro Laboreiro is short, abundant and of rough texture, lying flat over the whole body. The most common coat colour is wolf grey, sometimes with darker or lighter brindle on different parts of the body.

The character of the Cao de Castro Laboreiro is balanced and serene, with a real predisposition for guarding and protection, of an active nature, he will appreciate playful activities or obedience games that he can share with his family.

Devoted and loyal, they have a physiological need to be useful and to please their owners by accomplishing the tasks entrusted to them, whether at work or in everyday life, because even if they are mainly used as sheepdogs, they are a remarkable companion for the whole family.

Adult: The Cao de Castro Laboreiro will weigh approximately 25 to 40 kg (55 to 88 lbs), with a height at the withers of approximately 55 to 60 cm (21.5" to 23.5") for males and 52 to 57 cm (20.5" to 22.5") for females.

Awareness of acquiring an animal

Each animal is a sensitive being, deserving love, attention and care.
When you choose to adopt an animal, you take on the responsibility of ensuring its health and well-being throughout its life.

To learn more about animal welfare, we invite you to consult our FAQ by clicking the button below:

Awareness of animal welfare

Origins

The Castro Laboreiro Dog, also known as Cão de Castro Laboreiro, originates from the mountainous region of Castro Laboreiro, located in northern Portugal. This ancient breed was developed to protect herds of sheep and goats from predators such as wolves. Its origins date back centuries, and it is considered one of the oldest breeds in Portugal. Well adapted to harsh mountain conditions, this robust and vigilant dog is deeply rooted in Portuguese rural heritage.

History

The history of the Castro Laboreiro Dog is rich and ancient. Used for centuries in the mountains of northern Portugal, this dog played a crucial role in protecting herds against predators. Over the years, it has also been used as a guard dog for houses and properties. Its protective instinct and loyalty have made it an indispensable companion for farmers and shepherds. Despite economic and social changes, the breed has survived thanks to the efforts of local breeders who have preserved its unique characteristics and natural skills.

Standard

The standard of the Castro Laboreiro Dog breed is defined by distinctive characteristics that reflect its robustness and aptitude for work. It measures between 58 and 64 cm at the withers for males and between 55 and 61 cm for females, with a weight ranging between 30 and 40 kg. Its head is wide with a slightly arched skull and droopy triangular ears. Its dark brown eyes are expressive and show great intelligence. Its body is muscular and well-proportioned, designed for endurance. The coat is dense and thick, typically brindle or black in color, with various shades.

Physical characteristics

The Castro Laboreiro dog is a powerful and well-proportioned dog. It has a dense and thick coat that protects it from bad weather, particularly suitable for harsh mountain climates. Its well-developed muscles and strong skeletal structure give it great endurance and remarkable agility. Its drooping ears and expressive eyes give it a alert and vigilant appearance. The tail is long and carried low at rest, but it rises in action. Its physical robustness and noble appearance make it an impressive and efficient guardian.

Character

The Castro Laboreiro Dog is known for its brave, loyal and protective character. Devoted to its family, it is extremely vigilant and can be reserved or even wary towards strangers, making it an excellent guard dog. Its intelligence and independence allow it to make autonomous decisions when patrolling its territory. Although affectionate with its loved ones, it requires early socialization and training to channel its protective instinct. Its balanced nature and devotion make it a loyal and reliable companion.

Life expectancy

The life expectancy of the Castro Laboreiro Dog generally ranges from 10 to 14 years. This longevity is the result of its natural robustness and good constitution. To maximize its lifespan, it is important to provide a balanced diet, regular veterinary care, and enough exercise. Regular health checks and disease prevention are essential to maintain good health. With a suitable lifestyle and special attention to its specific needs, this dog can live a long and active life.

Exercise and activity needs

The Castro Laboreiro Dog is an active breed that requires a lot of exercise to be happy and healthy. He needs long daily walks and enjoys stimulating activities that allow him to expend his energy. As a working dog, he excels in tasks requiring vigilance and endurance. Outdoor activities such as hiking and play are ideal for him. Without sufficient exercise, he can become bored and develop undesirable behaviors. Owners must be prepared to offer him an active and engaging lifestyle.

Recommended diet

To keep the Castro Laboreiro Dog healthy, a diet rich in high-quality proteins is essential. Premium kibble formulated for active dogs is recommended to meet its nutritional needs. It is important to choose a balanced diet, including lean meats, vegetables, and whole grains. Dietary supplements, such as omega-3 for skin and coat health, may also be beneficial. Portions should be adjusted according to its activity level to avoid obesity and ensure it receives all necessary nutrients.

Training and obedience

The education and training of the Castro Laboreiro Dog require a firm but positive approach. Intelligent and independent, this dog responds well to positive reinforcement methods. It is crucial to start training at a young age to establish good habits and reliable obedience. Early socialization is also essential for him to get used to various environments and people. Training sessions should be varied and stimulating to keep his interest. His protective nature requires consistent education to channel his guarding instinct appropriately.

Behavior with children

The Castro Laboreiro Dog is generally protective and affectionate with the children in its family. Its loyal and patient nature makes it a good companion for young people, provided it is properly socialized from a young age. However, due to its size and energy, it is important to supervise interactions with young children to avoid unintentional accidents. Teaching children to respect the dog and interact with it appropriately is essential. With proper training, it can become an excellent playmate and a vigilant guardian for children.

Compatibility with Other Animals

The Castro Laboreiro Dog can coexist with other pets, but early socialization is crucial to ensure a good relationship. Its protective and territorial instinct can sometimes pose challenges when introducing it to other animals. With dogs of similar or larger size, it may be more comfortable, especially if introduced gradually and under controlled conditions. Owners should monitor initial interactions and be ready to intervene if necessary. Proper training and continuous supervision are essential for harmonious cohabitation with other pets.

Grooming needs

The Castro Laboreiro Dog has a dense and thick coat that requires regular maintenance to remain in good condition. Weekly brushing is sufficient to remove dead hair and prevent knots. During shedding periods, in spring and autumn, more frequent brushing may be necessary. It is also important to regularly check and clean its ears to prevent infections. Baths should be given occasionally, unless the dog gets particularly dirty. Keeping the claws at an appropriate length is also essential for its health and comfort.

Health

The Castro Laboreiro Dog is generally robust and healthy, but like all breeds, it can be subject to certain health problems. Common conditions include hip dysplasia and certain eye diseases. A balanced diet, regular veterinary care, and plenty of exercise are essential to maintain its health. Responsible breeders conduct health tests on their breeding dogs to minimize the risks of hereditary diseases. By carefully monitoring your dog's health and quickly responding to any signs of discomfort, you can contribute to a long and healthy life.

Average price

The average price of a Castro Laboreiro puppy can vary depending on the breeder, lineage, and region. Generally, a puppy of this breed costs between 800 and 1200 euros, or between 900 and 1300 dollars. This price often includes first vaccinations, health certificates, and sometimes a pedigree. It is important to choose a reputable breeder who tests their dogs for hereditary diseases and raises their puppies in good conditions. Investing in a well-raised puppy can reduce future costs in healthcare and behavioral issues.

Expenses

Annual expenses for a Castro Laboreiro Dog can vary, but on average, they range between 1000 and 1500 euros, or 1100 to 1600 dollars. This includes high-quality food, regular veterinary care, vaccinations, health insurance, grooming products, and accessories such as collars and leashes. Additional costs may be incurred for training, obedience courses or specific activities such as herding. Good financial planning is essential to ensure your dog's well-being and cover all necessary expenses.

Name ideas

Choosing a name for your Castro Laboreiro Dog can reflect his unique qualities. For example, "Lobo" means "wolf" in Portuguese, evoking his protective instinct. "Forte" means "strong", highlighting his robustness. "Sombra" means "shadow", reminding of his often dark fur. "Brave" evokes his courage. "Leal" means "loyal". "Monte" means "mountain", in reference to his original habitat. "Guerreiro" means "warrior". "Preto" means "black". "Amigo" for his loyalty. "Guardião" means "guardian", reflecting his protective nature.

Legislation and regulation

In general, the Castro Laboreiro Dog is not subject to particular restrictions in most countries. However, it is always advisable to check local regulations regarding the ownership of guard or working dogs. In Portugal, its country of origin, there are no specific prohibitions, but owners must comply with general laws on the ownership and treatment of animals. It is also important to be informed about local regulations concerning herd guarding if the dog is used for pastoral purposes. A good understanding of local laws is essential to avoid legal issues.

Official recognition

The Castro Laboreiro Dog is officially recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) under standard number 170 in group 2, section 2.2: Mountain Dogs. In the United States, it is also recognized by the United Kennel Club (UKC). In Portugal, the official breed club is the Clube Português do Cão de Castro Laboreiro, which plays a crucial role in the preservation and promotion of the breed. This global recognition reflects the importance of this breed in the world of working and companion dogs.

Pedigrees

Pedigrees available for the Castro Laboreiro Dog are crucial to ensure the purity of the breed and the health of the puppies. Responsible breeders provide pedigrees detailing the dog's lineage over several generations. These documents include information about the dog's ancestors, their championship titles, their health test results, and sometimes their working performances. In Portugal, the Clube Português do Cão de Castro Laboreiro maintains a registry of pedigrees. For potential buyers, checking the pedigree is essential to ensure they are acquiring a high-quality and well-raised dog.

Destination and usage

The Castro Laboreiro dog is mainly used as a guard and protection dog thanks to its protective instinct and robustness. It excels in protecting flocks and properties, and is also used as a working dog on farms. In addition to its working abilities, it is also appreciated as a companion dog for active families. Its loyal and energetic nature makes it suitable for various roles, including participation in canine sports such as tracking and guarding. Its versatility and character make it valuable in many situations.

Prohibitions

The Castro Laboreiro Dog is generally not subject to strict restrictions, but some regions may have specific regulations regarding guard dogs or breeds considered potentially dangerous. It is essential to inquire about local laws before acquiring a Castro Laboreiro Dog, especially if you plan to travel or move abroad with him. In some countries, restrictions may apply to large dogs or those used for guarding. Always check with local authorities to avoid legal complications.

Breeders of castro laboreiro dog

No of castro laboreiro dog breeders are currently registered on Preeders.
If you’re a breeder, sign up for free now and be the first to appear on this page.

Classified Ads of castro laboreiro dog

No of castro laboreiro dog classified ads are available on Preeders.
If you’re a breeder, sign up for free now and be the first to post a classified ad

Breed clubs of castro laboreiro dog

No of castro laboreiro dog breed clubs are currently registered on Preeders.
If you would like to highlight your breed club, sign up for free now and be the first to appear on this page.