Estrela Mountain Dog vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison

Estrela Mountain Dog vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed ComparisonEstrela Mountain Dog is originated from Portugal but Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) is originated from France. Estrela Mountain Dog may grow 14 cm / 6 inches higher than Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type). Both Estrela Mountain Dog and Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) are having almost same weight. Estrela Mountain Dog may live 3 years less than Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type). Both Estrela Mountain Dog and Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) has almost same litter size. Estrela Mountain Dog requires Moderate maintenance. But Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) requires Low maintenance

History

estrela mountain dog - historyAlso known as the Cao da Serra de Estrela, the large Estrela Mountain Dog from Portugal is an ancient breed, having been used for centuries to guard homesteads and livestock.

The Estrela, as a herding dog, has been developed over a long period of time because shepherds particularly wanted a dog that could survive in the mountains and be strong enough to guard livestock from predators.

The first official recorded breed standard was published in 1933, with an attempt to make the Estrela a distinct breed with a hooked tail and double dew claws.

Today the Estrela is a dog which can be found in other countries beyond Portugal, and in fact in 1973 pairs of the dogs were imported to the United States.

braque francais pyrenean type - historyThe Braque Francais Gascognes and the Braque Francais Pyrenees are two alike dogs that are in reality separate breeds. The Pyrenees is not as rare as his larger brother, Gascognes. Around since the 15th century at least, not mush is really known about their origins. Because the Braque Francais was exported or taken to so many different countries in the 15th-18th centuries, a lot of information regarding the origins of the breeds were lost. There was a major study done in the 19th century that showed the two dogs came from very different blood lines. It is known that in this timeframe there was an acute need for a dog that was better than the current hunting breeds. This dog needed to be able to point, track, retrieve and flush.

With no authenticated story of origin, many myths have grown up in the vacuum. The most common belief is that the Chien d’Oysel, an ancient spaniel breed that was medium sized with brown or white fur and brown markings, is an ancestor of the Braque Francais and local hunting dogs. To make the Gascognes larger and stronger than the Pyrenees, local scent hounds were also crossed with these dogs. The Pyrenees does not have these scent hounds in their background.

Until the late 1800’s, there was only one type and one breed of Braque Francais. But when the breed was no longer the dogs of a nobility, the average hunter needed a smaller dog. Urbanization following the French Revolution added to this trend and the Pyrenees Mountain hunters crossed the Gascognes with smaller scent hounds and pointers. Thus, they created the Braque Francais Pyrenees and each dog became its own breed in 1920.

The Braque Francais breed club, including standards for both breeds was established in 1850 with the standards established in 1880. This acceptance was then followed by registration of both breeds in the International Kennel Club (FCI) and the French Kennel Club. Canada recognizes only the Gascoigne and the United Kennel Club (UKC) of the United States, recognized both. Neither breed has been recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC).

The Second World War was brutal to both types of the Braque Francais, but the Pyrenees have surpassed their sister breed and are the only one that has found its way to North America. The importers have started a breeding program in Canada. Later a few were imported to the States. There are currently at least four breeders in North America – 2 in the U.S. and 2 in Canada. It is thought that there are less than 200 Braque Francais Pyrenees living in North America.

Basic Information

Group:
Herding dogs
Sporting dog
Origin:
Portugal
France
Height Male:
65 - 72 cm
25 - 29 inches
47 - 58 cm
18 - 23 inches
Height Female:
62 - 70 cm
24 - 28 inches
45 - 55 cm
17 - 22 inches
Weight Male:
40 - 50 kg
88 - 111 pounds
35 - 55 kg
77 - 122 pounds
Weight Female:
30 - 50 kg
66 - 111 pounds
32 - 52 kg
70 - 115 pounds
Life Span:
10 - 12 Years
12 - 15 Years
Litter Size:
2 - 8
3 - 10
Size:
Large dog
Medium dog
Other Names:
Cao da Serra de Estrela
French Pointing Dog - Pyrenean Type; Braque Francais, de Petite Taille
Colors Available:
Fawn, gray, yellow, brindle
mottled brown Chestnut brown, either solid or mixed with white. With or without ticking or roaning or tan markings
Coat:
Short or long - coarse and thick
fine and short
Shedding:
Moderate
Minimal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Territorial
Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Loving, Loyal, Playful, Territorial
Grooming:
Moderate maintenance
Low maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

Description

estrela mountain dog puppy - descriptionThe large Estrela Mountain Dog stands between 62 and 72cm and weighs between 30kg and 50kg.

The dog has 2 coat types – short and long but always coarse and thick. The coat is available in a number of colors, from fawn to gray to yellow and brindle and there can be white and black mixed throughout the coat.

The head of the dog is large and long, the neck fairly short and thick, he has dark brown eyes, a bright, intelligent expression with small, floppy ears which are set high on the skull, falling backwards against the side of the head. The tail is long and thick and the dog has a deep chest.

Temperament:

A large, athletic dog, the Estrela Mountain Dog is actually a calm dog, while still being protective towards his human family.

He is an intelligent dog who responds well to training and socialization. He is an independent dog, so this training and socialization is important - will be good for him, turning him into an obedient, relaxed pet who gets on well with other pets in the home as well as with children.

braque francais pyrenean type puppy - descriptionThe Braque Francais breeds are medium sized dogs with the Pyrenean standing 10 centimeters shorter than the Gascogne. They have a, white or chestnut brown coat with brown spots and a brown head. The Pyrenees has a head that is broader and ears that are not as long as the Gascogne. Their muzzle is narrower. He is strong, tall with hanging lips and square muzzles.

Characteristics

estrela mountain dog dog - characteristicsThe Estrela Mountain Dog loves his human family and takes guarding them and protecting them seriously. He is a strong willed, independent dog that will require training and socialization. He makes an excellent pet, and is calm and gentle with children.

The Estrela Mountain Dog has so much going for him – he is beautiful to look at, he is loyal and protective with his human family, he is intelligent, loving and a healthy type of breed, and he is just waiting to become a member of your family.

braque francais pyrenean type dog - characteristicsThis is a sociable, lovable, friendly breed. They are gentle and docile dogs that want only to please you. They like children as well as adults and will never be a guard dog as they are friendly to strangers as well. The Braque Francais Pyrenees is affectionate while being highly skilled hunters. They are prone to severe separation anxiety if left alone for long. They might even have a tendency toward shyness.

Health Problems

estrela mountain dog puppies - health problemsThe Estrela Mountain Dog can live to be between 10 and 14 years of age, but as with any large dog, he will have a tendency to suffer from hip- and elbow dysplasia.

Dilated cardiomyopathy is another common heart failure disease found particularly in large-breed dogs. The Estrela is prone to this disease and you’ll notice he has shortness of breath, abdominal swelling and coughing. The disease may not be curable, but there are certainly treatments for it.

braque francais pyrenean type puppies - health problemsThe breed of Braque Francais in both its incarnations is generally a pretty healthy dog. They are prone to several issues including dysplasia of the elbow and hip, aortic stenosis, some eye issues and patellar luxation. The eye issues are around the lids and include ectropion and entropion along with cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). These issues are not avoidable, but the risk can be reduced even more by breeder testing of parents of any litter and then test the litter. Both the OFA and CERF should conduct tests for the dysplasia (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) and eyes (Canine Eye Registration Foundation).

Caring The Pet

Diet:

estrela mountain dog dogs - caringThe Estrela Mountain Dog is a large dog and thankfully, when it comes to feeding him, experts in dog feeding have come up with commercially manufactured dog feeds that particularly cater for a dog’s age, his size and any illnesses he may have.

As a large dog, your Estrela Mountain Dog can suffer with joint problems such as hip dysplasia. For hip dysplasia you want to be looking at a dog food for large dogs which contains joint-health ingredients. An ingredient in the dog food such as glucosamine can work to reduce the damage brought about by hip dysplasia.

Mix in some cooked brown rice, vegetables and chicken into his kibble from time to time. You want your pet to live a long, healthy life and raw meat added in occasionally can increase your pets energy levels, reduce the risk of joint disease and ensure a shiny, soft coat. Raw meat can provide iron, zinc, vitamins, minerals and potassium.

Grooming:

The Estrela isn’t a huge shedder, but his beautiful, thick coat will require brushing twice a week. It’s your chance to check him over for fleas and ticks as well, and the entire grooming process – checking his ears, nails and teeth – is an excellent bonding experience for you and your canine friend.

Exercise:

The Estrela may be large, but he is fairly calm. He’ll love to join you on your daily walks or for a ball game in the garden. He can adapt to life in the city or the country, but his big size will mean he isn’t suited to a tiny property.

Feeding

braque francais pyrenean type dogs - caringThis breed need a high energy food including raw meat such as chicken, fish, and beef. If feeding kibble, they need about 2.5 cups per day.

Health issues

Prone to inflammation and infections of the ears as they are long and floppy. Clean them regularly. As previously mention eye disorders, joint dysplasia and bloat.

Exercise and games

The Braque Francais Pyrenees is a fairly versatile hunting dog. They can hunt on all types of terrain by trailing, flushing and retrieving. They are quick and move quickly without actually sprinting. This dog needs serious exercise every day. They will walk or jog with you. They will run along side your bike. Whatever you choose to do, do it for an hour a day. Don’t make couch potatoes out of this breed. It will not turn out well if you do. They need a place where they can play off leash as well, such as a large yard or a dog park.

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Old English Sheepdog vs Estrela Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  2. Rough Collie vs Estrela Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  3. Saarlooswolfhond vs Estrela Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  4. Estrela Mountain Dog vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  5. Estrela Mountain Dog vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  6. Estrela Mountain Dog vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  7. Estrela Mountain Dog vs Briard - Breed Comparison
  8. Estrela Mountain Dog vs Bouvier des Flandres - Breed Comparison
  9. Estrela Mountain Dog vs East German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  10. Estrela Mountain Dog vs Czechoslovakian Wolfdog - Breed Comparison
  11. Huntaway vs Estrela Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  12. Perro de Pastor Mallorquin vs Estrela Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  13. South Russian Ovcharka vs Estrela Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  14. Mioritic Sheepdog vs Estrela Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  15. Samoyed vs Estrela Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  16. Labradoodle vs Estrela Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  17. Mixed vs Estrela Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  18. German Shorthaired Pointer vs Estrela Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  19. Great Pyrenees vs Estrela Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  20. Presa Canario vs Estrela Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  21. Labrador Husky vs Estrela Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  22. Perro de Presa Canario vs Estrela Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  23. Irish Setter vs Estrela Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  24. Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Estrela Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  25. East Siberian Laika vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  26. French Spaniel vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  27. Flat-Coated Retriever vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  28. Finnish Spitz vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  29. Nova Scotia Duck-Tolling Retriever vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  30. English Water Spaniel vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  31. Field Spaniel vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  32. Curly Coated Retriever vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  33. Lagotto Romagnolo vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  34. Braque Francais vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  35. Formosan Mountain Dog vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  36. Shikoku vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  37. Slovakian Hound vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  38. Small Munsterlander vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  39. Sussex Spaniel vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  40. Kooikerhondje vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  41. Welsh Springer Spaniel vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  42. West Siberian Laika vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  43. Wetterhoun vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  44. Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  45. Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) vs Ariegeois - Breed Comparison
  46. Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) vs Beagador - Breed Comparison
  47. Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) vs Artois Hound - Breed Comparison
  48. Braque Saint-Germain vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  49. Wirehaired Pointing Griffon vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds