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Estrela Mountain Dog

Working Group - AKC Foundation Stock Service (FSS)

The photos, profile, history and FAQs are the courtesy of Cindy Martishius from Trails End Estrela

The Estrela is loyal and affectionate to his owners with a streak of stuborness. It is NOT the dog for a first time dog owner as they can be dominant and difficult to control for a person who has never owned a large dominant dog. They need to be handled with a firm hand.

They love children to the point of ignoring adults if there are children present. An Estrela that does not love children is not a true Estrela. The most important thing in an Estrela's life is you, he needs to be with you, to know he is loved and to feel he is secure in this. They are not demanding of attention and accept what is given them with contentment.

As guard dogs, they are among the best in the world. When something is left under it’s protection its as safe as a dog can make it. He will give, without hesitation, his life protecting his territory, flock or family. It is extremely aggressive to strangers especially when it’s territory or protected zone is violated. Outdoor activity is a necessity.

For more detailed information about the history of the breed and a very thorough FAQ about the breed go to History and FAQ For additional photos go to Estrela Photos

Notice	Average Height("'s)	Average Weight (#'s)	Personality	Coat	Grooming	Notes for owners
The height and weight are given from the lowest for a female to the highest for a male.	24 1/2-28 1/2	66-110	Love children	Coarse and abundent	Deep brushing once a week	Not a first owner dog.

Relevant Web Sites

AKC Breed Profile

Estrela Mountain Dog Association of America

Estrela Mountain Dog USA

Breeder Listing

Book Suggestions

We STRONGLY recommend that you get your dog from a respectable breeder or rescue organization. Pet store puppies may get their dogs from Puppy Mills that normally breed only for profit, not quality or concern for the puppy or its eventual owner. Please visit NoPuppyMills.com

If you would like help locating a breeder or rescue agency near you please E-Mail PGAA ( ita408@comcast.net), and let us know your city/state and the type of dog you are looking for. Do not assume that PGAA has qualified all of the breeders or rescues on this site. Do your own check of each breeder or rescue -- be sure that you are comfortable with the organization before you buy, adopt or turn-over a dog.

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