what they are likePastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai temperament
Lively, curious and easy-going at home, this shepherd dog switches to a sharp, determined working mode around livestock. It pays close attention to its handler, gets along naturally with people and other animals, and quietly keeps watch when needed.123
how to spot onePastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai coat and colours
semi-long double coat
A medium-sized, wolf-like herding dog, a little longer than it is tall, built for agility, speed and stamina. The semi-long coat can be slightly wavy, with coarser hairs along the back, a light mane and a dense undercoat. Ears are usually upright or semi-upright.123
A typical home-care rhythm for a Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai. A starting point, not a vet's advice.
BrushingDaily during heavy sheddingevery 3 days
Double coats insulate against cold and heat, so shaving is not recommended
Bathevery 10 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
Ear checkevery 2 weeks
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 8every year
by countryIs the Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai legal where you live?
No breed-specific rule names the Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai in the 44 countries we check. General dangerous-dog laws still apply everywhere, and some cities keep their own lists.
Checked 2026-11-05. Laws change and local rules exist; this is a sourced overview, not legal advice.
how busy a day looksPastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai exercise needs
A true working dog with high exercise needs, bred to keep going for long days in the mountains.13
where they are happiestPastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai at home
Best suited to an active rural life with space and a job to do; the breed is at home outdoors in harsh alpine weather.13
who they like aroundPastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai with people and other pets
Bred to work closely with a shepherd and alongside other animals, so it does best with plenty of contact and purposeful activity.23
where it all beganPastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai history
This herding dog grew out of the old, widespread European herding type and was shaped over centuries of seasonal transhumance in the Venetian and Trentino Alps, where wool production was important. It was kept for its working ability rather than looks, and shepherds still use it today. A breed society formed around 2016-2017 to protect it and seek official recognition.12
for the dinner tableFun facts
1
A single dog can comfortably handle a flock or herd of more than 100 animals.2
told by a Pastore della Lessinia e del LagoraiA day in the life
I started my day with a stretch on the sunny hillside, watching the cows graze. My human whistled, and I perked up, time to work! I circled the herd, keeping everyone together on the winding path. A playful calf tried to wander, I gave a gentle nudge and a patient look. After the job was done, I romped through a stream, splashing water everywhere. Back home, I flopped on the grass, enjoying a belly rub. The evening breeze carried the scent of wildflowers, and I knew this was a perfect day.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
the official bitsRecognised by
Major kennel clubs (FCI, ENCI standard)
Not recognised as a breed by any major kennel club.1
ENCI
Entered in ENCI's open supplementary register (RSA) for native breeds at risk of disappearing; the Società Italiana Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai (SIPaLL) is working toward official breed status.2
How many Several thousand dogs still working with shepherds (2017)2
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
the things everyone asksOwner questions
How often should I feed my Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai, and at what times?
Adult dogs do well with at least two meals a day, while puppies need three to four smaller meals. Pet Wiki's starting plan is to feed twice daily, and it's best to follow the food label and your vet's advice for exact amounts.4Pet Wiki plan
What should a Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai eat, and which foods are dangerous?
Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for their age and activity level. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts, so keep these well away.5
How often should I bathe a Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai?
Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests a bath about every 10 weeks, but you can bathe more often if your dog gets very dirty. Use a gentle dog shampoo and avoid over-bathing to protect their natural coat oils.6Pet Wiki plan
How often does a Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai need brushing?
Brush every three days, and daily during heavy shedding seasons to manage loose fur. Their semi-long double coat benefits from regular brushing to prevent mats and keep it healthy. Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai's nails, and how often?
Trim nails about every four weeks, or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick to avoid pain and bleeding.6Pet Wiki plan
How much exercise does a Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai need?
This working breed has high exercise needs and thrives with daily walks and play. Pet Wiki's starting plan includes daily activity, and they are best suited to an active rural life with space to move.13Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai's teeth and ears?
Brush their teeth daily if possible, at least two to three times a week, using only dog toothpaste. Check ears every two weeks and clean gently without pushing anything into the ear canal.6Pet Wiki plan
How long does a Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai live?
Lifespan varies, but senior years usually start around age 8. For specific longevity, ask your vet or a good breeder. Pet Wiki plan
Is a Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai good with children and other pets?
Yes, they are lively, curious, and easy-going at home, getting along naturally with people and other animals. They are bred to work closely with a shepherd and alongside other animals, so they do best with plenty of contact.123
Can a Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai be left alone?
This breed does best with plenty of contact and purposeful activity, so they may struggle with long periods alone. For specific guidance, ask a good breeder or an exotic-pet vet.23
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
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