Also known as the Portuguese Mountain Dog, the Estrela Mountain Dog is protective and intelligent breed. But how do you know whether you are ready to purchase a pet and if this breed is right for you? This information is absolutely necessary in making the decision to purchase a pet.
History
The origin of the Estrela Mountain Dog is believed to be traced to the Serra de Estrela mountains of Portugal. The breed’s history has not been well documented, yet enthusiasts believe that the Estrela Mountain Dog to be the oldest breed of the Iberian Peninsula.
Throughout its history, the Estrela Mountain Dog has been most commonly used to serve as a guard and watch dog, due to its protective nature.
It was 1994 before the breed was introduced to Britain and 1998 brought the Estrela Mountain Dog to the United States.
In 2004, the Estrela Mountain Dog was recognized by the American Kennel Club’s Foundation Stock Service.
Today, the breed remains rather rare outside of its native Portugal.
Personality Traits
Best known for its protective and dominant nature, the Estrela Mountain Dog is very protective of its owners and property. This breed is highly intelligent and trainable, but has a stubborn and overly confident side. These dogs are loyal, affectionate, and loving to their owners, only once trust has been established.
Train-ability
The Estrela Mountain Dog is intelligent and obedient by nature, and typically responds well to basic training and commands.
Establishing immediate dominance and trust is key to successfully training this breed. A strong, confident, stern, and experienced trainer is best suited to work with the Estrela Mountain Dog.
Benefits and Disadvantages of the Breed
There are many benefits to owning an Estrela Mountain Dog. This breed is protective and territorial by nature and makes an impressive and efficient guard and watch dog. These dogs are highly intelligent and typically respond well to experienced trainers. When properly socialized from a young age, the Estrela Mountain Dog gets along well with small children and other pets. The Estrela Mountain Dog becomes quickly attached to its owner and makes a loving, loyal, and affectionate family pet and companion alike.
Unfortunately, there are also disadvantages to owning an Estrela Mountain Dog. These large dogs require moderate amounts of daily exercise and room to run and play. Anyone wishing to purchase this breed lacking the adequate amount of time and space to dedicate to the dog is strongly advised against doing so. An Estrela Mountain Dog not receiving the proper amount of exercise or room will often act out by destroying property, chewing, barking, whining, and ignoring basic training such as housebreaking.
Proper training and socialization is absolutely required with the Estrela Mountain Dog. Improper training may result in an overly aggressive and territorial dog, which may be dangerous to strangers, other pets, and even family members. Occasionally, professional intervention may be required to insure proper training.
This breed’s impressive and thick coat requires almost constant attention, brushing, and grooming.
As previously mentioned, the Estrela Mountain Dog remains rather rare outside of its native Portugal and can prove difficult to obtain. Individuals seeking to purchase this breed often encounter such challenges as inability to locate a breeder, extremely high prices, and being placed on long waiting lists.
Common Health Concerns
While the Estrela Mountain Dog is generally known as a healthy and hearty breed, they do suffer from a few health problems, including: hip dysplasia, patellar luxation – dislocation of the knee cap, bloat, and various joint issues such as arthritis.
Now that you know all about the breed, do you think you are ready to own an Estrela Mountain Dog? Remember, purchasing a pet is a big decision and should be discussed thoroughly and seriously with your entire family.
Sources:
http://www.akc.org/breeds/estrela_mountain_dog
http://www.dogguide.net/estrela-mountain-dog.php
