Estrela Mountain Dog

These strong and sturdy dogs have a build similar to mastiffs, but they are a bit more agile, giving off a vibe of elegant strength. Estrela Mountain Dogs can have either long or short fur, but both types look impressive and carry a sense of nobility. The long-haired ones display a luxurious mane of slightly rough, flowing outer fur over a soft, lighter undercoat, while the short-haired ones have thick, smooth fur that keeps them cozy.

Quick Info

Size
Large
Colours
Fawn, brindle, wolf grey, or black
Lifespan
10-12 years
Height
24 to 29 inches
Type
Mastiff
Hypoallergenic
no
Weight
66 to 110 pounds
Family

Personality

These beautiful dogs make great protectors you can count on. They are devoted and affectionate with their loved ones but may be a bit cautious around new people. Picture Estrela Mountain Dogs as the watchful older sibling who is always ready to defend you, keeping an eye out for any dangers. Smart and focused, they also enjoy having fun, especially when participating in family outings and activities.

History

Estrela Mountain Dogs get their name from the rough Estrela Mountains in Portugal. They have a long history as protectors of sheep and goats in those mountains. While we don’t know their exact beginnings, they probably came from Mastiff-like dogs that ancient people brought to the Iberian Peninsula. As time passed, these dogs became a unique breed known for their loyalty and protective nature. Their working roles decreased, and they made their way to the United States in the 1970s, where they slowly became beloved pets, appreciated for their strength and loyalty.

Ideal Owner

If you want to be the best owner of an Estrela, you should enjoy spending time outside and be skilled at taking long walks and training dogs. These dogs value safety and like homes with few visitors. Be prepared for a lot of grooming, and ensure your home can accommodate a large, heavy dog that sometimes doesn't realize how big it is—small kids and delicate adults may not be the best fit.

Exercise Needs

These wonderful furry companions thrive on long, leisurely strolls and have endless energy. If you provide them with one to two hours of activity each day, including some training, fun games, and challenging puzzles, they will be very content and pleasantly tired.

Space Requirements

Estrela Mountain Dogs are large and furry, needing ample room for regular grooming, dealing with shedding, and cleaning up after mud. It's important to have enough space on the ground floor of your home since these dogs usually don’t like climbing stairs, particularly when they are still puppies. For outdoor activities, having a safe, fenced yard is essential.

Training

Taking care of an Estrela Mountain Dog requires special attention! It's important to socialize and train them early since these dogs are born leaders, designed to detect dangers on their own. As an owner, your main job is to avoid problems through steady guidance and training from the start. Use positive reinforcement techniques to create a strong connection and encourage their willingness to cooperate.

Grooming

The Estrela Mountain Dog comes in two types of coats: long and short. Both types have a thick undercoat and a rougher top layer. The hair on the head and legs is shorter, while the tail and back legs have longer fur. Male Estrelas, in particular, display a beautiful mane. It’s best to groom them twice a week, focusing on the longer fur that can easily get knotted.

Suitability for Family Life

These big protectors are extremely loyal to their families and tend to bond well with kids if they grow up together. As puppies, they are large, energetic, and can be a bit awkward, which might lead to them accidentally knocking over smaller kids. Once they grow up, they need plenty of exercise and training, and they might be wary of new people. This could be a challenge for families with young kids, elderly individuals, or those who have many guests. However, older teens who enjoy training and working with dogs might find the Estrela dog to be a great friend.

Did You know?

The Estrela Mountain Dog features two dewclaws on each paw, unlike most dogs that typically have only one or sometimes none. This unique trait helps them gain better traction when navigating through snow or rocky surfaces.

Similar Breeds

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Need to Know

Dogs suitable for experienced owners
Extra training required
Generally healthy breed
Enjoys vigorous walks
Enjoys one to two hours of walking a day
Giant dog
Some drool
Requires grooming every other day