Group 1 · Sheepdogs & cattle dogs
Basque Shepherd Dog
The Basque Shepherd Dog, or Euskal Artzain Txakurra, is a medium-sized Spanish farm dog with a short or a rougher coat, usually red or fawn-red. It is intelligent, loyal and hard-working.
Health
There is no breeding programme approved by Dierenwelzijn Vlaanderen (Animal Welfare Flanders) for this breed (yet). Without an approved breeding programme, no Flemish pedigree can be issued, but a lineage certificate can. Dierenwelzijn Vlaanderen strongly recommends carrying out the health tests on the parent dogs.
View the official breeding programmes
This breed profile is not a breed sheet within the meaning of the Flemish Breeding Decree (Fokkerijbesluit). The legal rules for breeding this breed are set out in the official breeding programme.
Considerations when buying
There is no breeding programme approved by Dierenwelzijn Vlaanderen for this breed (yet). Dierenwelzijn Vlaanderen strongly recommends carrying out the health tests on the parent dogs. Ask the breeder which health tests the parent dogs have had, and ask for the results. A Basque Shepherd Dog needs plenty of daily exercise and a job, such as herding, dog sports or training. The coat needs a weekly brush, the rougher variety a little more often.
Questions for the breeder
- Which health tests have the parent dogs had, and may I see the results?
- Will the puppy receive a pedigree or a lineage certificate, and from which association?
- How are the puppies socialised before they go to their new home?
Breed-specific challenges
As a working sheepdog it is eager to learn and focused on its owner, but needs structure and enough challenge. Early socialisation helps, as it can be watchful with strangers.
More background
General guides that help you understand this breed information and choose well.
