A large dog rustic dog seen speedily weaving in and out between the cattle to bring a runaway back to the herd would be an impressive sight. Obviously, the dog has the courage of an outstanding herding dog. The square shaped muscular body is covered with short sleek fur that can be grey, brindled or fawn in color. Unlike other herders, this dog has a larger body but the size is not an impediment that cause the dog to be less agile. Actually, the dogs gracefulness and efficiency when herding is unsurpassed by other herding dogs. This very rare breed that is seldom seen outside Portugal is the Azores Cattle Dog.
Ever since its creation, the Azores Cattle Dogs has always been vital in managing herds of unruly cattle. Sao Miguel, the largest among the Azorean Islands was covered with dense vegetation during the 15th century. To take advantage of the abundant life plant Prince Henrys sailors have brought cattle and left the herds on the island. After fourteen years, the cattle that has proliferated have become unruly. To take the issue in hand, it was decided that a breed of dog with excellent herding qualities must be developed.
The Azores Cattle Dog, otherwise known as Cao Fila de Sao Miguel was developed from a breed called Fila de Terceira. The Fila de Terceira was crossed with mollosers and resulted to the creation of the outstanding herding breed, the Azores Cattle Dog. It was accepted that the breed is already in existence since the 1800s.
The herding ability is innate in this breed thus it would need very little training to perform is herding duties efficiently. The aggressive personality makes this breed a dependable guard dog. An Azores Cattle Dog was specifically developed to be a herder. An aggressive temperament is therefore necessary in the performance of its duties hence, breeders have made no efforts to tone down its ferociousness.
An Azores Cattle Dog is an efficient cattle herder¦a dependable guard dog – but it is not for everyone especially for a first time dog owner. This breed would need a dominant owner that will be able to make the dog toe the line and one that will understand the special needs of this breed. This is a working breed. Obviously, the dog would not thrive in an apartment being kept mainly as a home companion. The Azores Cattle Dog would be happiest if allowed to do the jobs it was specifically developed for – to guard its masters and to manage the cattle.
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