The Cao da Serra de Aires is a herding breed that is about 100 years old. It is believed that they have descended from the Briards that were imported to Portugal by a count, de Castro Guimaraes. The Cao da Serra de Aires was the primary companion of poor shepherds in the southern part of Portugal. This breed was almost extinct in the 1970s, but today the Portuguese middle-class ensures that the breed will survive. The Cao da Serra de Aires is almost unknown outside of Portugal.
Temperament
The Cao da Serra de Aires is a very dedicated and intelligent sheepdog. This breed is very lively, and also very keen to work. Cao da Serra de Aires are very dedicated to their owners and families. They have an above average intelligence, and also learn fairly quickly. If these dogs are trained properly, they are very consistent. The Cao da Serra de Aires gets along well with other dogs when they have been socialised from an early age onwards. The Cao da Serra de Aires tends to be wary of strangers, but they are still superb watchdogs. This is a dog that will also defend its family without holding back.
The Cao da Serra de Aires is not used to life in a small apartment, and will need sufficient exercise in order for them to be calm indoors. Seeing that this is a working breed, they prefer to live indoors.
Care
The coat of the Cao da Serra de Aires should be checked frequently to make sure that there are no tangles. Their coats should not be brushed excessively, as this will cause damage to the texture of it. It is advised that the surplus hair between their toes is trimmed. The Cao da Serra de Aires is not a dog that should be bathed too often, and only when it is really necessary.
Training
The training environment of the Cao da Serra de Aires should be one that is secure and consistent. These dogs learn very quickly, especially if their training is done correctly. This breed can on the other hand be very stubborn, and they will try to dominate when given the opportunity. It is vital that the trainers of these dogs are experienced and dominant, as this will ensure success in training. These dogs have lots of stamina and do very well in obedience.
Health problems
There are no recorded health issues for the Cao da Serra de Aires. This breed will typically live for 12 to 13 years.
