Cao da Serra de Aires vs Bouvier des Flandres - Breed Comparison

Cao da Serra de Aires vs Bouvier des Flandres - Breed ComparisonCao da Serra de Aires is originated from Portugal but Bouvier des Flandres is originated from Belgium. Cao da Serra de Aires may grow 15 cm / 5 inches shorter than Bouvier des Flandres. Cao da Serra de Aires may weigh 25 kg / 55 pounds lesser than Bouvier des Flandres. Both Cao da Serra de Aires and Bouvier des Flandres has almost same life span. Cao da Serra de Aires may have less litter size than Bouvier des Flandres. Both Cao da Serra de Aires and Bouvier des Flandres requires Moderate maintenance.

History

cao da serra de aires - historyAncestors of the Cao da Sera de Aires were used for herding livestock in the Serra de Aires and Alentejo, Portugal. This herding dog is native to Portugal and throughout the 20th Century he was kept as a working dog.

Known also as the Portuguese Sheepdog, Portuguese Shepherd Dog or Serra de Aires Mountain Dog, there are some questions surrounding the breed's ancestry as there are few records of dogs before 1900. The dog is thought to be related to the Pyrenean and Catalan Sheepdogs and that it has descended from Briards which were imported into Portugal and crossed with the Pyrenean Sheepdog.

The Cão da Serra de Aires breed standard was accepted by the Portuguese Kennel Club, and the breed was recognized internationally in 1996. The dog was also recognized by the United Kennel Club in the Herding Group in 2006.

bouvier des flandres - historyThese large dogs have descended from Flemish cattle dogs, and in French, the word Bouvier means herdsman or cattle herder. This is because the dog was used for driving cattle. The Bouvier comes from the Flemish region of Belgium where it was bred as a working farm dog. It is believed that the breed may have come from crossing local farm dogs with imported Irish Wolfhounds, Schnauzers, Tibetan Mastiffs, Brabanters, Griffons and Beaucerons.

It was in 1910 that the first Bouviers appeared at the international dog show in Brussels, with a standard for the breed being adopted in 1912.The American Kennel Club recognized the dog in 1929. It was after World War 11 that Bouviers were brought to America and the American Bouvier des Flandres Club was founded in 1963.

Basic Information

Group:
Herding dogs
Herding dogs
Origin:
Portugal
Belgium
Height Male:
45 - 55 cm
17 - 22 inches
59 - 70 cm
23 - 28 inches
Height Female:
42 - 53 cm
16 - 21 inches
55 - 70 cm
21 - 28 inches
Weight Male:
17 - 27 kg
37 - 60 pounds
27 - 52 kg
59 - 115 pounds
Weight Female:
15 - 27 kg
33 - 60 pounds
25 - 52 kg
55 - 115 pounds
Life Span:
12 - 14 Years
10 - 12 Years
Litter Size:
3 - 6
5 - 10
Size:
Medium dog
Large dog
Other Names:
Portuguese Sheepdog, Portuguese Shepherd Dog
Flanders Cattle Dog
Colors Available:
Fawn, gray, yellow and black
Black, Brindle, Fawn, Grey
Coat:
Long, shaggy, single-layer coat,
Medium length, coarse, shaggy, dense
Shedding:
Moderate
Moderate
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Detached, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Territorial
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Territorial
Grooming:
Moderate maintenance
Moderate maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
Yes
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

Description

cao da serra de aires puppy - descriptionThe beautiful Cão da Serra de Aires is a medium-sized dog. He stands at 45 to 55 cm at the withers and weighs about 17 to 27 kg. He is recognizable by the long, shaggy, single-layer coat, of straight or slightly wavy hair. Don’t be deceived by the coat as below, the dog has a muscular, athletic body.

The coat comes in different shades such as fawn, gray, yellow and black. The dog has a long tail which is held straight out or down and he has medium-length, floppy ears. You’ve got to look hard, as the facial features of the dog are hidden by its shaggy coat. He has a lot of facial hair that sometimes you have to wonder if he can see out of his eyes.

Temperament:

The Cao da Serra de Aires is a wonderful canine companion and is devoted and loyal, forming strong bonds with their human family. He is a playful, amicable dog and gets on well with children in the home as well as with other pets.

He is intelligent and trainable, and when properly trained and socialized,he becomes an even nicer pet to have around and is obedient to his master’s voice. He is territorial, strong willed and dominant and makes a good watchdog too.

bouvier des flandres puppy - descriptionThe Bouvier is a large compact, well built dog with strong muscled limbs. He stands at roughly 59 to 70 cm high at the withers, weighing between 27 and 52 kg. He has a large head with a thick and abundant coat which is of rough appearance. The coat is mostly black, but you’ll also find a range of other shades such as brindle, grey and fawn.

The back of the dog is level and broad, and is typically wider in female dogs. The back legs are strong and muscular. Some Bouvier des Flandres are born tail-less and this is most attractive. Most Bouvier dog owners used to have the tails docked because of the excellent appearance, but with docking now being banned, the tail is kept long. The muzzle is wide, the nose large, the eyes dark brown and the ears high set and floppy.

The Bouvier is intelligent, energetic and full of confidence while being calm and balanced in temperament. The puppies are vocal and full of antics, but as the Bouvier grows into adulthood, he mellows and becomes a steady family friend who gets on well with each human family member. He loves spending time with his family and becomes both friend and guardian, making a good watchdog too.

Characteristics

cao da serra de aires dog - characteristicsThe Cão da Serra de Aires is such a loyal dog to his human family that he makes a splendid pet. He is active, having worked historically at herding and guarding.

Socialization and obedience training ensure that he becomes an exceptional pet and he has a host of positive attributes to his name – he is intelligent, energetic, loyal and loving. He may have been used long ago to guard livestock, but today he is selected as a pet specifically for his excellent companionship and for his protective nature.

bouvier des flandres dog - characteristicsThe Bouvier is such an amicable dog and strong and energetic too. He makes the most marvellous companion and will happily adapt to life in the city or in the country, although, with his big size, he is better suited to a home where there is enough space to run around in.

He is loyal, loving and protective and when you make sure to make him an active part of your family, you’ll find in him all the characteristics of a true friend.

Health Problems

cao da serra de aires puppies - health problemsAs with most dogs that are looked after well, their health can be good. The Cao da Serra de Aires isn’t likely to keep you at the vet often. Just like with any good dog, there are some health disorders that can benefit you to know about.

Being forewarned , you can get your pet to the vet quickly before the illness gets out of hand.

There are some pet owners who want to have their pets tested by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals as well as the Canine Eye Registration Foundation to rule out health defects such as hip dysplasia and cataracts before they manifest themselves in their pets. This is of particular importance to breeders so as to prevent the parent dogs passing bad genetic conditions to the puppies.

Hip Dysplasia:

This is a common skeletal disease where the dog’s hip joints don’t develop properly. It can be terribly painful for your pet to get around. It’s a genetic condition and while it is more prevalent in big dogs, any breeds are susceptible.

Your dog will battle along with painful joints and sometimes his hind-end will be lame. You’ll notice that once lying down, he battles to get up again. Fortunately vets are well acquainted with this ailment and they have different options to treat and manage it.

Cataracts:

Cataracts in your dog come about from a disease process which affects the lens of the eye. The eye loses its transparency and impairs vision. There are some instances where cataracts can cause blindness. You’ll see a whitish gray area in your pets eye. The most common cause of cataracts is genetics. Get your pet to the vet who will do certain tests to evaluate the eyes and make a recommendation.

bouvier des flandres puppies - health problemsThe big teddy-bear of a dog is a healthy breed, but as a large dog, you will need to look out for certain health problems with him.

Hip Dysplasia:

Xrays have been done on many Bouvier des Flandres by the Club and by the Orthopedic Foundation of America and it has been found that a significant percentage of Bouviers were dysplastic. Hip dysplasia is a deformity of the hip joint and many large breed dogs battle with this. It can be very sad for dog lovers as they watch their dog battling to get up after lying down and sometimes lameness in the hind legs.

Dental Disease:

Dental disease is a common problem in many dogs, and the Bouvier isn’t excluded one bit. If you don’t brush your pet’s teeth with special dog toothpaste and toothbrush, there is tartar build-up which can lead to bad breath and gum infection. Dental disease can lead to pain in the teeth and even the loss of teeth. Bad teeth affect the entire body, and the heart, kidneys and joints can all be negatively affected.

Obesity:

The Bouvier is a large dog prone to obesity. This is a serious disease that can lead to all kinds of digestive disorders, back pain as well as heart disease. It can be easy just to give in to your pet’s pleading eyes, but in the long run, excessive weight can spell a host of health problems.

Caring The Pet

cao da serra de aires dogs - caringAs a working dog used to long hours of action, the Cao da Serra de Aires will need lots of activity. He’ll need you taking him for long walks and playing ball games with him. He can become frustrated and destructive when left without any physical stimulation.

Grooming

The Cao da Serra de Aires may have long hair but he isn’t high maintenance. He won’t require professional grooming, but will require a good brush a least twice a week. This is because the long coat can tangle.

To keep him looking his best, you’ll want to be trimming the hair around his paws. Another important grooming task is checking his ears and cleaning them. You have to be careful about cleaning your pet ears if you don’t know how, as it could damage the ears. Your vet can always advise you on how this is done.

Training:

bouvier des flandres dogs - caringYour Bouvier is an intelligent, independent dog and you will be doing him a favor by having him socialized and trained. He becomes such a pleasure to have around, being obedient and willing to respond to your commands.

Exercise:

Every dog, and particularly large dogs like the Bouvier, should be able to rely on a daily walk, a run in the park or on the farm and have special games from his owner. Not only does participating in activities together build a strong bond between dog and owner, its important to avoid boredom and frustration with your dog. You bought him so you therefore have a responsibility toward him.

Grooming:

Your Bouvier des Flandres has a thick, medium-length coat that gets a shaggy look to it. The breed needs regular brushing every second day or so to get rid of loose hairs and to prevent the hair matting. He will require some professional grooming to look and feel his best. With his thick coat, he is hypoallergenic which can be a relief for allergy sufferers.

Diet:

The Bouvier has to be on high-quality dog food, whether you give him home-made food or commercially manufactured food. It has to have the right amount of vitamins and minerals. If you’re unsure about feeding a dog, remember that the amount and type of food you give your pet must be appropriate to your dog’s age, size and energy levels.It can also be wise to know which human foods are bad. Speak to your vet about your dog – they are a minefield of useful information about your pet. Fresh, cool water should be be available at all times.

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Old English Sheepdog vs Bouvier des Flandres - Breed Comparison
  2. Briard vs Bouvier des Flandres - Breed Comparison
  3. Rough Collie vs Bouvier des Flandres - Breed Comparison
  4. Bouvier des Flandres vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  5. Bouvier des Flandres vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  6. Bouvier des Flandres vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  7. East German Shepherd vs Bouvier des Flandres - Breed Comparison
  8. Saarlooswolfhond vs Bouvier des Flandres - Breed Comparison
  9. Estrela Mountain Dog vs Bouvier des Flandres - Breed Comparison
  10. Huntaway vs Bouvier des Flandres - Breed Comparison
  11. Czechoslovakian Wolfdog vs Bouvier des Flandres - Breed Comparison
  12. Perro de Pastor Mallorquin vs Bouvier des Flandres - Breed Comparison
  13. South Russian Ovcharka vs Bouvier des Flandres - Breed Comparison
  14. Mioritic Sheepdog vs Bouvier des Flandres - Breed Comparison
  15. Samoyed vs Bouvier des Flandres - Breed Comparison
  16. Labradoodle vs Bouvier des Flandres - Breed Comparison
  17. Cane Corso vs Bouvier des Flandres - Breed Comparison
  18. Mixed vs Bouvier des Flandres - Breed Comparison
  19. Bullmastiff vs Bouvier des Flandres - Breed Comparison
  20. Dogue De Bordeaux vs Bouvier des Flandres - Breed Comparison
  21. German Shorthaired Pointer vs Bouvier des Flandres - Breed Comparison
  22. Great Pyrenees vs Bouvier des Flandres - Breed Comparison
  23. Presa Canario vs Bouvier des Flandres - Breed Comparison
  24. Labrador Husky vs Bouvier des Flandres - Breed Comparison
  25. Pembroke Welsh Corgi vs Cao da Serra de Aires - Breed Comparison
  26. Collie vs Cao da Serra de Aires - Breed Comparison
  27. Dutch Shepherd vs Cao da Serra de Aires - Breed Comparison
  28. English Shepherd vs Cao da Serra de Aires - Breed Comparison
  29. Catahoula Cur vs Cao da Serra de Aires - Breed Comparison
  30. Catalan Sheepdog vs Cao da Serra de Aires - Breed Comparison
  31. Pyrenean Shepherd vs Cao da Serra de Aires - Breed Comparison
  32. Appenzell Mountain Dog vs Cao da Serra de Aires - Breed Comparison
  33. Queensland Heeler vs Cao da Serra de Aires - Breed Comparison
  34. German Coolie vs Cao da Serra de Aires - Breed Comparison
  35. Croatian Sheepdog vs Cao da Serra de Aires - Breed Comparison
  36. Red Heeler vs Cao da Serra de Aires - Breed Comparison
  37. New Zealand Huntaway vs Cao da Serra de Aires - Breed Comparison
  38. Norwegian Buhund vs Cao da Serra de Aires - Breed Comparison
  39. Polish Lowland Sheepdog vs Cao da Serra de Aires - Breed Comparison
  40. Mudi vs Cao da Serra de Aires - Breed Comparison
  41. Schapendoes vs Cao da Serra de Aires - Breed Comparison
  42. Nenets Herding Laika vs Cao da Serra de Aires - Breed Comparison
  43. Scotch Collie vs Cao da Serra de Aires - Breed Comparison
  44. Smithfield vs Cao da Serra de Aires - Breed Comparison
  45. Smooth Collie vs Cao da Serra de Aires - Breed Comparison
  46. Spanish Water Dog vs Cao da Serra de Aires - Breed Comparison
  47. Swedish Lapphund vs Cao da Serra de Aires - Breed Comparison
  48. Swedish Vallhund vs Cao da Serra de Aires - Breed Comparison
  49. Thai Bangkaew vs Cao da Serra de Aires - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds