The C�o da Serra de Aires (also called Portuguese Sheepdog) is a lively and friendly herding, drover and guardian dog that got its name from a range of hills and mountains which are called 'Serra di Aires'. The breed is nicknamed ' Cao Macao' which means ' monkey dog' due to its lively and friendly nature. This is a medium size indigenous regional Portuguese dog which has been in use for more than 100 years. The dog is believed to be a cross breed between the Briards and the Pyrenian Sheepdog.
It is a medium sized dog with long shaggy coat long body. The dog stands between 17.5 to 21.5 inches and weighs between 26 to 40 pounds. The head is strong, broad but never round with a slightly longer than wide skull and a short muzzle. Nose is slightly raised from profile and has large nostrils. It is usually black. Medium size round eyes have expression of liveliness, intelligence and docility. Ears are of medium length and set high. When natural, they hang out and when cropped, they hang straight and triangular in shape. Medium length neck blends smoothly into the body. Body is slightly longer than tall with a long straight or slightly hollow back. Forelegs are strong and straight while hindlegs are strong and slightly angulated. Tail is high-set, pointing and tapers towards the base. The coat is long, smooth or slightly wavy and comes in different colors and shades.
This breed is NOT recognized by AKC however it is recognized by UKC and FCI.
