Group 2 · Pinschers & molossoids
Castro Laboreiro Dog
The Castro Laboreiro Dog is a rare Portuguese livestock guardian from the mountains near the Spanish border, with a short brindle coat and a strikingly deep bark. It is watchful, loyal and independent.
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 Castro Laboreiro Dog needs long daily walks and above all space: a large, well-fenced garden is no luxury. Its short coat needs a weekly brush and more during moulting.
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 flock guardian it likes to make its own decisions and guards its territory and its people. It is reserved with strangers, can bark loudly and belongs with an experienced owner who puts a lot into socialisation.
More background
General guides that help you understand this breed information and choose well.
