Pet Wiki

Portuguese Sheepdog

Also called Cão da Serra de Aires, Cão Macaco, monkey dog

A bright, bouncy and very loyal herding dog.

SizeMedium
Weight17 to 27 kg (37 to 60 lb)12
Height42 to 55 cm (17 to 22 in)males 45 to 55 cm, females 42 to 52 cm12
CoatLong, goat-like coat
OriginPortugal, in the Alentejo region, named after the Serra de Aires hills.12
GroupFCI group 1
Recognised breedShort profile
exceptionally intelligent
lively and energetic
devoted to its family and flock
13

Personality what they are like

A bright, bouncy and very loyal herding dog. It is devoted to its shepherd and animals, somewhat wary of strangers and naturally alert at night, which also makes it a good watchdog and a fine companion.13

Coat and looks how to spot one

long, goat-like coat

A long, straight or lightly wavy coat with a slightly rough, goat-hair feel and no undercoat. The hair forms a beard, moustache and eyebrows on the face but does not hide the eyes.12

Coloursyellowbrownchestnutgreyfawnwolf greyblackany of these with tan markings12

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Portuguese Sheepdog. 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

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Bred to cover long distances with livestock on open plains, it has great stamina and needs daily exercise plus mental work such as training or dog sports.13

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

The long coat benefits from regular brushing to keep it free of tangles, with a little attention to the facial furnishings.1

Home where they are happiest

Suits an active home with outdoor space and a job to do.13

Company who they like around

Very attached to its people and happiest when included in family life.13

The story where it all began

The breed grew up as an all-round farm dog in the Alentejo, moving sheep, cattle, goats, horses and pigs. Its ancestry is often linked to Briards brought to Portugal in the early 1900s by the Count of Castro Guimarães and crossed with Pyrenean Sheepdogs.12

Fun facts for the dinner table

  1. 1

    Portuguese shepherds nicknamed it cão macaco, the monkey dog, for its bearded face and lively manner.2

  2. 2

    It has herded an unusual mix of animals, including sheep, cattle, goats, horses and pigs.1

  3. 3

    The breed standard likens the coat texture to goat hair.1

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The breed is known in its native region as 'monkey dog' due to its simian-like attitudes and appearance. Its official name, Cão da Serra de Aires, refers to the Serra de Aires region in Portugal.4

Name ideas for your new friend

MacacoAiresBouncyFiapoLuzRucaSardinhaTrovãoPipaChicoBrisaZé

A day in the life told by a Portuguese Sheepdog

I woke up and herded the cat off my bed, just my morning routine! My human laughed and gave me a treat. We went to the pasture, and I ran circles around the sheep, keeping them together. I love my job! Back home, I barked at the mailman to warn everyone. In the afternoon, we played agility in the yard, I jumped through hoops like a pro. At sunset, I sat on the porch, watching the stars. Now I'm snuggled next to my human, dreaming of sheep.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

FCI
Standard no. 93, Group 1 (Sheepdogs and Cattle Dogs), Section 1 Sheepdogs; standard dated 30.03.2009. Wikipedia gives 1996 for FCI recognition.1
UKC
Recognised (per Wikipedia, as of 2006).2
AKC
Has an AKC breed page.3

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

  • 1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

  1. Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
  2. Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
  3. Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

  • 1 cooking pumpkin
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
  • Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

  1. Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
  2. Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
  3. Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
  4. Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
  5. Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
  6. Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
  7. Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Blueberry and Oat Bites

These three-ingredient treats are quick to make and packed with antioxidants from blueberries and fibre from oats. They are low in fat and perfect as a training reward.

You need

  • 100g oats
  • 1 banana (mashed)
  • 40g fresh blueberries (chopped)
  • Splash of water (as needed)

How

  1. Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F).
  2. In a bowl, mix the mashed banana, oats, and chopped blueberries together.
  3. Add splashes of water gradually until the mixture comes together into a large ball.
  4. Roll out the mixture on a lightly floured surface to about 1-2cm thick.
  5. Use a knife or cookie cutter to cut into shapes.
  6. Place the shapes on a lined baking tray.
  7. Bake for 15-20 minutes until slightly browned.
  8. Leave to cool completely before serving.

How much: Offer one or two bites per day for a medium-sized dog. Reduce your dog's usual food portion to account for these treats.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

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

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Portuguese Sheepdog, and at what times?

Feed your adult Portuguese Sheepdog at least two meals a day, and puppies three to four smaller meals. Stick to consistent times each day, as their stomachs empty within a few hours. Pet Wiki's starting plan is to follow this routine, adjusting portions as needed.5 Pet Wiki plan

What should a Portuguese Sheepdog eat, and which foods are dangerous?

A balanced, high-quality dog food is best for your Portuguese Sheepdog. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, xylitol, onions, garlic, and macadamia nuts, as these are especially harmful to dogs. Always check with your vet for specific dietary needs.6

How often should I bathe a Portuguese Sheepdog?

Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests a bath every 70 days, and general guidance recommends at least once every three months. Bathe more often if your dog gets very dirty or has skin issues, but avoid over-bathing to protect their coat.7 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Portuguese Sheepdog need brushing?

Brush your Portuguese Sheepdog every three days, and daily during heavy shedding to keep their long, goat-like coat free of tangles. Their facial furnishings also need a little attention. Regular brushing helps maintain a healthy coat.17 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Portuguese Sheepdog's nails, and how often?

Trim nails every 28 days, or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick (the pink part) to avoid pain. Pet Wiki's plan is a good starting point, and your vet can show you the technique.7 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Portuguese Sheepdog need?

This breed has great stamina and needs daily exercise plus mental work, such as training or dog sports. Pet Wiki's starting plan includes daily walks and play. An active home with outdoor space is ideal for this lively herding dog.13 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Portuguese Sheepdog's teeth and ears?

Brush your dog's teeth daily with a dog-safe toothpaste, and check ears every two weeks for dirt or redness. Never push anything into the ear canal. Pet Wiki's plan suggests these routines to keep your Portuguese Sheepdog healthy.7 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Portuguese Sheepdog live?

Lifespan varies by individual health and care, so it's best to ask your vet for a general estimate. They can give you guidance based on your dog's specific needs and breed tendencies.

Is a Portuguese Sheepdog good with children and other pets?

Yes, this loyal breed is devoted to its family and gets along well with children and other pets when properly socialized. They can be wary of strangers, so early training helps them feel confident. They make wonderful companions for an active household.13

Can a Portuguese Sheepdog be left alone?

Portuguese Sheepdogs are very attached to their people and are happiest when included in family life. They do not do well left alone for long periods, as they need companionship and a job to do. Consider a dog walker or pet sitter if you're away often.13

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.

You might also like

BriardPyrenean SheepdogCatalan Sheepdog

Where this comes from

Every fact on this page has a numbered source. Spotted an error? support@petwiki.app.

  1. FCI Standard No. 93, Cão da Serra de Aires fci.beused for size, coat, colours, temperament, use
  2. Wikipedia: Portuguese Sheepdog en.wikipedia.orgused for history, nickname, recognition
  3. AKC: Portuguese Sheepdog akc.orgused for temperament, roles
  4. fci.be fci.be
  5. VCA Animal Hospitals: Feeding times and frequency for your dog vcahospitals.comused for owner questions
  6. ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
  7. ASPCA: Dog grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions

Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.