Cão de Castro Laboreiro

The Cão de Castro Laboreiro (translates as dog from Castro Laboreiro, the name of a town) is a dog breed of the livestock guardian dog type, originating in the northern mountains of Portugal.

The desired appearance for which the Cão de Castro Laboreiro has been bred is somewhat wolflike in outline. It is a large dog, but not oversize. Height should not be above 60cms (24ins) at the withers and weight should not be more than 40kgs (88lbs); females somewhat smaller. Coat colours are also described in wolf terms, dark wolf colour, light wolf colour. Most breeders prefer what is considered the most authentic, called mountain colour (cor do monte), also described as similar to the coat of a wolf. The mountain colour is a mixed light and dark grey interspersed with individual hairs (not spots) that are brown (called pine-seed) or dark red (called mahogany), in a brindle.

The Cão de Castro Laboreiro is a large guardian dog. Dogs of this size and type have the potential to be a danger to others if not well socialized at an early age, and are recommended only for the experienced dog handler who has the time to socialize and train the dog. Individual dogs may vary in temperament.

Health issues specific to the dog breed have not been documented. Dogs represented as Cão de Castro Laboreiro may be mixed with other breeds, which may have other genetic health problems. Puppy buyers should enquire of breeders about types of health testing done on the sire and dam; responsible breeders will be able to provide information. Being a "rare breed" does not guarantee immunity from inherited disease or disability.