Estrela Mountain Dog

The Estrela dog breed is generally a healthy and robust breed. However, as with many breeds they can suffer from hip dysplasia (a condition that can lead to mobility problems). Hip scoring of dogs prior to breeding is therefore important. They are also predisposed to a particular heart disease which is common in many large breeds of dog.

Bred to patrol the mountains, he can walk for miles and has great stamina, but around an hour's exercise a day will keep him content. He is surprisingly playful, given his size, and will enjoy games with his owner. He can be stubborn, but is generally a happy pupil and has taken part in search and rescue as well as obedience and agility.

Large breed dogs, as well as having large appetites, benefit from a different balance of nutrients including minerals and vitamins compared to smaller-breed dogs.

There are two coat types with the Estrela Mountain Dog – long and short. In both, the double coat is made up of a dense undercoat and a thick topcoat that is slightly coarse in texture. There is shorter hair on the head and the front of the legs, and longer hair (feathering) on the tail and the back of the legs. The long variety has longer hair, of course, and a thicker 'mane' around the neck and chest, which is especially noticeable in male dogs. The Estrela should be groomed around twice a week, paying particular attention to the areas of longer hair that are prone to tangling.

While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children , all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with and respect each other, and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.