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Portuguese Sheepdog
Portuguese Sheepdog
Origin
Portugal
Size
Medium Breed
Ideal Space
House with backyard
Ideal Weather
15º-25ºC
Life Expectancy
12-14 years
Cost of buying
₹ 40,000 - ₹ 80,000
Top 5 Traits
Playful
Protective
Energetic
Intelligent
Loyal
Avg Monthly Expenses
₹ 4,900 - ₹ 6,600
by Happy Pet TeamUpdated on 5 Jul 2025
Introduction to the Portuguese Sheepdog
Portuguese Sheepdog or Cão da Serra de Aires is a rare, high-energy working breed that originated in southern Portugal, in the Alentejo, in the early part of the 20th century. The shaggy, goat like coat and monkey-like expression have given it the name monkey dog.
Characteristics
Barking
Quiet
Loud
Temperament with Kids
Aggressive
Friendly
Playfulness
Silent
Very Playful
Friendliness
Not Friendly
Super Friendly
Compatibility with other dogs
Aggressive
Friendly
Need for attention
Independent
Very Needy
Monthly Expenses
Portuguese Sheepdog’s Price Guide
Cost of buying
₹ 40,000 - ₹ 80,000
The price of a Portuguese Sheepdog in India can be somewhere between Rs. 40,000 to Rs. 80,000.
Prerequisites to pet a Portuguese Sheepdog
Access to Veterinary
Appropriate Climate
Space and Environment
Willingness to train
Time and Effort
Shop or Adopt a Portuguese Sheepdog: Make the Right Choice!
Portuguese Sheepdogs are charming, affectionate and devoted companions, distinguished by their unique appearance. When you adopt a Portuguese Sheepdog, you provide a loving home to a dog in need and bring a devoted friend into your life. Adoption helps support animal welfare and deters unethical breeding practices.
Nutrition Care for the Portuguese Sheepdog
Monthly Food Expenses
₹ 2,500 - ₹ 3,000
Calories per day
Puppies: 1500 kcal
Adults: 1200 kcal
Essential Nutrients
Carbohydrates
Fats
Minerals
Omega3
Protein
Vitamins
Fibre
List of foods
Chicken
Dry Dog Food
Fresh Meat
Fresh Fish
Fruits
Mutton
Home made meals
Vegetables
- Portuguese Sheepdog need a balanced diet to support their size and coat.
- Include protein, healthy fats, carbs, vitamins, and minerals for strength and coat health.
- Avoid low-quality food to prevent deficiencies and weight gain.
- Adjust feeding based on age and activity level.
- Mix dry food with lean meats and vegetables for balanced nutrition.
Breakdown of Macro-nutrients
Best Foods for Portuguese Sheepdogs
Recommended food choices include:
Foods to Avoid for Portuguese Sheepdogs
Avoid anything with these ingredients
Alcohol
Almonds
Avocados
Garlic
Grapes
Onions
Mushrooms
Dairy
- Fatty table scraps or fried treats – May cause abdominal pains. Only give a limited amount of lean, dog-safe treats.
- Corn gluten or wheat middlings – May ferment quickly and result in bloating. Prefer low-grain and readily digestible food.
- Toxic foods – Grapes, raisins, onions, chocolate, xylitol. Just a small dose can deliver severe or lethal effects.
- Excess liver – Vitamin A toxicity hazard. Only feed organ meats in moderate portions.
Healthcare for the Portuguese Sheepdog
Avg Monthly Expenses
₹ 1,200 - ₹ 1,800
Common Health Issues
Hip Dysplasia
Bloat
Parasites
Parvovirus
Leptospirosis
Lyme disease
Rabies
Well being
Exercise
Agility Training
Bonding
Hiking
Socialization
Energy Level
High
Exercise routine
60 - 90 minutes
Recognising Stress
Excessive Barking
Excessive Panting
Reluctance to move
Pacing
Changes in appetite
Common Health Problems of Portuguese Sheepdogs
For active herding breeds like these, annual and preventive care is very important.
Vaccination details
Growth Stage
Core Vaccines
6-8 Weeks
Distemper, Parvovirus, Canine Hepatitis.
10-12 Weeks
Leptospirosis, Lyme Disease, Parvovirus.
14-16 Weeks
Rabies, Parvovirus, Distemper.
Annually
Rabies, Parvovirus, Distemper.
Every 3 Years
Leptospirosis, Lyme Disease.
Senior Portuguese Sheepdog Care
- Senior food containing EPA/DHA (200 mg/10 kg), vitamin D, and phosphatidylcholine. Such nutrients will sustain joint health, brain health, and vitality in older pets.
- Twice annually, vet checks and ultrasounds of the belly are performed to examine tumours. Periodic check-ups allow the detection of health risks at an earlier stage and treat them more effectively.
- Gentle daily activity: Light swimming, scent games and hill walks. Such low-intensity activities keep the elderly physically fit, tone muscles, and promote mental health.
Portuguese Sheepdog Grooming Routine
Avg Monthly Expenses
₹ 1,200 - ₹ 1,800
Shedding Level
Moderate Shedding
Hygienic Checklist
Bathing
Brushing
Ear Cleaning
Nail Trimming
Eye Care
Teeth Care
Benefits of Grooming
Cleanliness
Low Shedding
Quality of life
Odourless
Prevents infections
Prevents Bad Breath
- Brush their coat once per week with a pin brush
- Make sure to clean their beard after meals.
- Trim your dog’s nails once every month.
- Bathe them monthly or only as needed with a gentle shampoo
Written by
Happy Pet TeamAuthor
Team Happy Pet is a passionate collective of pet experts, enthusiasts, and advocates dedicated to sharing trusted and insightful content.
Our cont
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the breed hypoallergenic?
No, the coat sheds dander, and it might not be suitable for allergy sufferers.
Can a Portuguese Sheepdog live in an apartment?
Only when exercised intensely several times a day. Suitable for a rural home or acreage with security fences.
How much grooming time does it require weekly?
Around 20 minutes, including brushing, ear checks, and beard cleaning.
Does it get along with other pets?
Yes, when they are socialised early. The herding instinct, however, can also lead them to herd or round up cats or children.
