Anyone watching a large dog at a mad dash between the cattle to herd a runaway would surely be impressed. Obviously, the dog has the courage of an outstanding herding dog. The dog’s muscular square shaped body is smoothly covered with short grey, fawn or brindled fur. Unlike other herders, this dog has a larger body but the size is not an impediment that cause the dog to be less agile. In fact its elegant and efficient herding ability is seldom seen in other herding dogs. This is the Azores Cattle Dog, an extremely rare breed that is rarely seen outside Portugal, its country of origin.
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 thick and rich vegetation, the sailors of Prince Henry have decided to let loose cattle on the fringes of the island. After fourteen years, the cattle that has proliferated have become unruly. To address this concern, an intelligent and courageous breed has to be developed.
The Azores Cattle Dog also known as Cao Fila De Sao Miguel was developed from the Fila de Terceira breed. This breed was crossed with molloser type dogs creating an outstanding herding dog that was given the name Azores Cattle Dog. It was widely accepted that the breed is already in existence in the 1800s.
This dog has an inherent herding ability thus very little training is necessary to make the dog learn the ropes of herding. An Azores Cattle Dog’s aggressive personality is a valuable asset that makes this breed an outstanding guard dog. The dog is first and foremost a herder. A herding dog has to have an aggressive temperament to be able to function well thus breeders have made no efforts temper the dog’s aggressive personality.
This breed is a remarkable herder and makes a mean guard dog as well but an Azores Cattle Dog would not be a wise choice of dog for a first time dog owner. Only a dog wise and a dog experienced dominant owner that has what it takes to handle a breed known for its tough personality is qualified to have this breed. An Azores Cattle Dog is a working breed. It is apparent that this dog would not fare well in confined spaces. 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.