Cão de Castro Laboreiro

Information and Pictures

Adult Cão de Castro Laboreiro, photo courtesy of Villa Laboreiro

Other Names

Castro Laboreiro Livestock Guarding Dog
Castro Laboreiro Dog
Portuguese Cattle Dog

Description

The Cão de Castro Laboreiro has a thick resistant coat, which is slightly rough to the touch. Coat colors include black, chestnut and mahogany.

Temperament

The Laboreiro is a very brave protective flock guardian dog that is intelligent, very dominant and fearless. It is a loyal, docile friend to its owners, but is sometimes aggressive with strangers. The Laboreiro is trustworthy and very tolerant of children within its own family. All those the Laboreiro does not know is considered suspicious, is not trusted and will be watched closely. It will only tolerate orders of its owners. It will not tolerate a stranger telling it what to do. This breed will instinctively patrol its territory. It lives with its livestock, not letting strange people or animals anywhere near what it is protecting. The Laboreiro will find high ground to rest where he can watch over his flock. This is not a yappy breed; if the Laboreiro is barking, the dog feels there is something wrong. This is a breed which requires a very dominant owner. Starting from puppyhood, the dog must learn to respect its owner, not fear him. Harsh training does not work with this breed. These dogs may be difficult to control and need experienced training and firm handling. Not a breed for the average owner. Does best with a job to do.