Sao Miguel Cattle Dog
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. Fawn, grey or brindled short smooth fur covers the dog's muscular square shaped body. 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 very rare breed that is seldom seen outside Portugal is the Azores Cattle Dog.The Azores Cattle Dog has always been viewed as an important aide in herding unmanageable herds of 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. In fourteen years, the cattle that were left on the island have flourished and grown into unmanageable herds. 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 also known as Cao Fila De Sao Miguel was developed from the Fila de Terceira breed. The crossing of this breed with molosser type dogs created the Azores Cattle Dog, a breed acclaimed for its remarkable herding abilities. The breeds existence was documented since the 1800s.
Because of the innate herding abilities, extensive training is not really necessary to make the dog learn its herding duties. An Azores Cattle Dog's aggressive personality is a valuable asset that makes this breed an outstanding guard dog. An Azores Cattle Dog was specifically developed to be 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.
An Azores Cattle Dog is a very efficient herder and a dependable guard dog but it is not suitable for first time dog owners. 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. An Azores Cattle Dog is a working breed. This working dog is obviously not an apartment dweller. 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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