In this post, we’ll discuss some of the key facts about the Estrela Mountain Dog, as well as why they make excellent pets. We’ll also cover some health concerns associated with this breed so that you can make an informed decision if adopting one is right for you.
History of the Estrela Mountain Dog Breed
The Estrela Mountain Dog is a big, athletic breed originating in the Serra da Estrela mountains of Portugal. These dogs were bred to be working dogs, and their size and strength made them ideal for guarding livestock and property. Today, they are still used as working dogs in many parts of the world, but they also make great companions and family pets.
The Estrela Mountain Dog is one of the oldest breeds in this region. It is thought to be descended from the ancient Molosser breed, which was brought to Portugal by the Romans. The breed was further developed in the mountains of Portugal, where they were used as guard dogs and livestock shepherds.
Estrela Mountain Dog: Size, Traits, Coat
The Estrela Mountain Dog is a large breed, with males typically weighing in at around 100 pounds and females around 80 pounds. This breed has a thick, wooly coat that can be either short or long, and is usually white, cream-colored, or brown with white markings. The tail of the Estrela is long and bushy, and often hangs down below the dog’s hocks. Their muzzle is relatively short, and their ears are triangular in shape and stand erect. They stand anywhere from 24 to 29 inches (61 to 71 cm) at the shoulder, and the life expectancy of this dog is 10 to 14 years.
Temperament of the Estrela Mountain Dog
The Estrela Mountain Dog is an independent, loyal and protective breed. They are reserved around strangers but are affectionate with their family and friends, and they love to fawn. This breed is intelligent and trainable, but can also be stubborn at times. They need a firm hand in training and socialization from an early age. This is an active breed that needs plenty of exercise and playtime. They are not suited for life in an apartment or small home. This breed does best in a rural or suburban environment with plenty of space to run and play.
Estrela Mountain Dog’s Health Concerns
Estrela Mountain Dogs are a relatively healthy breed, but like all breeds, they are susceptible to certain health conditions. Some of the most common health concerns for them include hip and elbow dysplasia, eye problems, and heart disease.
Hip and elbow dysplasia are two of the most common health concerns for Estrela Mountain Dogs. It is a condition where the joints do not form properly, causing pain and lameness. These dogs are especially prone to hip dysplasia, and it is important to have them checked by a veterinarian regularly for this condition.
These dogs are also prone to develop eye problems, like cataracts, glaucoma, and other conditions. It is important to have their eyes checked by a veterinarian regularly to ensure that they are healthy.
Heart disease is another common health concern for this large breed. They are susceptible to developing congenital heart defects, which can be fatal. It is important to have your dog checked by a veterinarian regularly and to keep an eye out for any signs of illness.
Estrela Mountain Dog Training
If you are looking for a dog that is easy to train and will be a loyal companion, the Estrela Mountain Dog may be the right breed for you. However, their size can also make them difficult to handle if they are not properly trained. With the right amount of patience and positive reinforcement, you can have your pup obediently following your commands in no time.
One of the most important things to remember when training this large dog is to be consistent with your commands. You should also try to keep sessions short and sweet. Estrela Mountain Dogs have a short attention span and may become easily bored if training sessions are too long. Try to keep sessions to about 15-20 minutes at a time.
As your dog becomes more familiar with the basic commands, you can start to add in some more advanced tricks.
How to Groom Estrela Mountain Dogs
Assuming you have an Estrela Mountain Dog, the first thing you will need to do is gather the proper grooming supplies. You will need a dog brush, a comb, and some dog shampoo.
Next, you will want to start by brushing your dog’s coat. Be sure to move in the direction of hair growth and be gentle, as the Estrela Mountain Dog has a sensitive coat. You may also want to use a comb to help remove any tangles or knots in your dog’s coarse undercoat.
After you have brushed and combed your dog’s fur, you will next want to give them a bath. Be sure to use a dog shampoo that is designed for sensitive skin. After the bath, be sure to clean your dog’s fur again to remove any remaining knots or tangles. And don’t forget about clipping your dog’s nails!
Estrela Mountain Dog’s Dietary Needs
The Estrela Mountain Dog is a large, athletic breed that needs a diet that will support their active lifestyle. They should have a diet that is high in protein and fat to help them maintain their muscular body type. They also need plenty of exercise to stay in shape. A good diet for an Estrela Mountain Dog should include:
- High quality protein – this will help your pup maintain their muscle mass. Look for food that has at least 20% protein.
- Fat – it is an important energy source for dogs, and it helps to keep their coat healthy. Make sure that the fat content in your dog’s food is at least 10%.
If you are unsure of what to feed your dog, talk to your veterinarian. They can help you choose food that is right for your pup.
Estrela Mountain Dog’s Exercise Needs
The Estrela Mountain Dog is an energetic dog that needs a good amount of exercise. They are happiest when they have a job to do, whether it is herding livestock, guarding property, or even just going for long walks with their owner. This breed is not suited for life in an apartment or small home without a yard, as they need space to run and play.
Exercise is an important part of the Estrela Mountain Dog’s life, and they should have at least one good walk or play session every day. If possible, they should also have access to a large yard where they can run and explore. This breed is not suited for hot climates, as they can overheat easily, so exercise should be done in cooler weather whenever possible.
Where to Buy Estrela Mountain Dog Puppies
If you’re looking for a new furry friend, you might be wondering where to buy Estrela Mountain Dog puppies. This large and loyal dog makes a great addition to any family, and there are plenty of reputable breeders out there who can help you find the perfect pup for your home.
Here are a few tips on where to buy Estrela Mountain Dog puppies:
- Do your research. Make sure you take the time to learn about the Estrela Mountain Dog before you start looking for a puppy. This way, you’ll know what to look for in a reputable place and what questions to ask.
- Ask around. Talk to your friends, family, and even your vet to see if anyone knows of a good place in your area.
- Check online directories. There are several online directories that list reputable breeders of all different types of dogs.
- Go to dog shows. If you have the opportunity to attend a dog show, take advantage of it! This is a great place to meet the owners, see puppies in person, and ask some questions about breed standards.
- Contact the Estrela Mountain Dog Club of America. The EMDCOA is the official breed club for Estrelas in the United States. They can provide you with a list of reputable breeders in your area.
Price for the puppy is variable depending on the breeder, bloodline, and coat color. You can expect to pay anywhere from $600-$2000 for an Estrela Mountain Dog pup.
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