Maremma Sheepdog vs Cao Fila de Sao Miguel - Breed Comparison

Maremma Sheepdog vs Cao Fila de Sao Miguel - Breed ComparisonCao Fila de Sao Miguel is originated from Portugal but Maremma Sheepdog is originated from Italy. Cao Fila de Sao Miguel may grow 12 cm / 4 inches shorter than Maremma Sheepdog. Both Cao Fila de Sao Miguel and Maremma Sheepdog are having almost same weight. Both Cao Fila de Sao Miguel and Maremma Sheepdog has almost same life span. Both Cao Fila de Sao Miguel and Maremma Sheepdog has almost same litter size. Cao Fila de Sao Miguel requires Low Maintenance. But Maremma Sheepdog requires Moderate Maintenance

Basic Information

Group:
Molosser dogs
Working dog
undefined
Portugal
Italy
Height Male:
50 - 61 cm
19 - 25 inches
65 - 73 cm
25 - 29 inches
Height Female:
48 - 61 cm
18 - 25 inches
65 - 73 cm
25 - 29 inches
Weight Male:
25 - 41 kg
55 - 91 pounds
35 - 45 kg
77 - 100 pounds
Weight Female:
23 - 41 kg
50 - 91 pounds
35 - 45 kg
77 - 100 pounds
Life Span:
12 - 15 Years
10 - 13 Years
Litter Size:
5 - 10
6 - 9
Size:
Medium
Large
Other Names:
Sao Miguel Cattle Dog or the Azores Cattle Dog
Maremmano, Abruzzese Sheepdog
Colors Available:
Brindled, shades of fawn, brown, gray or black
White
Coat:
Short and smooth
Long and Thick
Shedding:
Minimal
Moderate, Seasonal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Territorial
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Territorial
Grooming:
Low Maintenance
Moderate Maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

History

cao fila de sao miguelThis Molosser type dog originated on Sao Miguel Island in the Azores, a region of Portugal. Known also as the Sao Miguel Cattle Dog or the Azores Cattle Dog, the existence of the Cao Fila de Sao Miguel has been documented since early in the 19th century.

The dog has always been used as a cattle dog but today it remains rare outside of Portugal. In was in 1984 in Portugal that the first written breed standard was published in Portugal. The Cao Fila de Sao Miguel then earned recognition with the Portuguese Kennel Club.

maremma sheepdogKnown also as the Cane de Pastore Maremmano-Abruzzese, the Maremma Sheepdog is often referred to as the Maremmano or the Abruzzese Sheepdog.

This is a working dog – a guardian of sheep and an indigenous dog to central Italy. The dog has been used for centuries already to guard sheep.

It was in 1924 that the first standard for the breed was published.

Description

cao fila de sao miguel puppy - descriptionThe Cao Fila de Sao Miguel is a medium to large sized dog standing 50 – 61cm in height and weighing 25 – 41kg. As with all molossers, the dog has powerful jaws.

This dog breed has muscular limbs and dark brown eyes. The ears are normally docked into a rounded shape much like that of the Hyena. The tail has always been docked at the 2nd or 3rd vertebra but these days with regulations surrounding docking, the tail is unfortunately left long.

The coat of the Cao Fila de Sao Miguel is short and smooth while the hair on the tail and thighs is a bit longer. The Cao Fila de Sao Miguel is always brindled, and comes in shades of fawn, brown, gray or black. A white mark on the forehead around the chest or on the paws is also often seen.

Temperament

The Cão de Fãila de São Miguel is a working dog who is used to guarding livestock. He is an athletic dog, game for plenty of action, and he will require plenty of daily exercise. He is territorial and makes an excellent guard dog, but even so, when it comes to his own owner and human family, he is gentle and loving.

The Cao de Fila de Sao Miguel is an intelligent dog and he will need training and socialization which allows him to get on well with children in the home as well as other pets.

maremma sheepdog puppy - descriptionThe Maremma Sheepdog is a large dog with a muscular build. Some people who have owned these distinctive-looking dogs say he is like a big bear. He stands at 65 to 73 cm in height, both male and female, and he weighs 35 to 45 kg.

The coat is long, thick and white with a dense undercoat. If you look you’ll see flashes of pale orange or apricot amid the white. There is thicker, longer hair around the neck area.

The nose is black, the eyes brown and the ears medium length and floppy. The long tail is set low and is thickly feathered. You can expect 6 – 10 puppies from these dogs.

Temperament:

The Maremma has always been used to guarding sheep, and today even though he is looked upon as a wonderful, friendly companion dog, he also makes an excellent watch dog, being brave and courageous. He isn’t the kind of dog that you think of as getting wildly excited over something, as he has a dignified aura about him.

He is an independent dog, so training and sociaization will be absolutely imperative as he is strong-willed and likes to do things his way. Once trained and socialized, it is amazing to see such a large dog obeying all your commands such as ‘lie down, come, sit an stay'. He is very intelligent and shouldn’t have any trouble learning these basic commands.

He is calm and gets on well with children as well as other pets in the home. With his role as guardian of sheep, he has learned to be loyal and patient and will make a loyal ad loving family pet he takes his role as guardian very seriously.

He loves hard work, and shepherds have always appreciated the splendid work he does guarding their flocks. As a companion you will also appreciate the many excellent qualities he possesses.

The Maremma Sheepdog isn’t recommended for life in the city where there is a tiny garden. He has always been accustomed to large open spaces and requires a large garden. He won’t tolerate heat well with that thick coat of his and will require a shady spot in your garden to retreat to.

Characteristics

cao fila de sao miguel dog - characteristicsThe Cão de Fila de São Miguel is a natural guard dog who will love and guard his family. With training and socialization he can become a devoted and gentle family dog with children and with other pets. They can be aloof with strangers.

The Cão de Fila de São Miguel is an active dog who wants to be busy, and he is therefore better suited to country living rather that in a small home where space is limited.

Intelligent, a fast learner, protective and territorial, the Cão de Fila de Sao Miguel is an aggressive, hardy working breed who is also an excellent guard dog and protector. With firm training he becomes loyal, lovable and devoted – an ideal family companion.

maremma sheepdog dog - characteristicsThis is a beautiful dog, but large, so don’t make the mistake of wanting a large dog like this for his looks. He will be expensive to feed.

If you have the means to provide a good home for him, he is friendly and good natured, even though he is strong-willed and independent.

Provide him with a good home and you’ll have a most splendid pet and companion.

Health Problems

cao fila de sao miguel puppies - health problemsThe Cao Fila de Sao Miguel is a dog who enjoys exceptional health. When you do research you see there aren’t really any particular illnesses plaguing this dog, and he can actually live to be 15 years of age. Be aware of some illnesses as they are common among different dog breeds – hip- and elbow dysplasia, bloat, eye diseases such as progressive retinal atrophy and cataracts, heat intolerance and arthritis.

Dog bloat:

This is a dangerous illness that can affect any dog – small or large. This is when the dog’s stomach fills with fluid or gas so that it expands. The stomach then puts pressure on other organs and your dog can have trouble breathing. There is also no blood flow to the heart. Sometimes the stomach of the dog twists and your pet can go into a state of shock. Recognize the symptoms of bloat – a swollen stomach, drooling and wanting to vomit but nothing coming up. Get your dog to the vet immediately.

Abscess:

An abscess can be so painful for your pet often when your dog has a thick coat it could go undetected. If an abscess on your pet doesn’t burst, or even if another abscess appears, a vet must be consulted and a course of antibiotics given.

Ear Infections:

Ear mites, dirt and a build up of wax may cause your dog to scratch at the ear, shake his head or hold it on one side. There may even be a foul-smelling discharge. Your dog will need to have his ears cleaned. Special ear drops can rectify the problem. Remember that hot, red ears will require veterinary attention.

maremma sheepdog puppies - health problemsThis ancient dog breed is robust and can reach 11 to 13 years of age when cared for properly. Like any other dogs, he can be prone to certain health problems.

One of these is hip dysplasia. Preventing your dog from becoming overweight can work towards preventing these kinds of musculoskeletal issues. Hip dysplasia occurs when your dog’s hip joints don’t develop properly so that the hips partially dislocate.

It is painful for your dog and it can be debilitating, leading to arthritis too and making it difficult for your pet to get around and to get up from lying down. There are a number of treatment options offered by your vet.

Caring The Pet

cao fila de sao miguel dogs - caringThe Cao Fila de Sao Miguel is a low maintenance breed and all that will be required for him is that you give him a thorough brushing a couple of times a week.

Diet:

The Cao Fila De Sao Miguel puppy will require four meals of puppy food a day. The adult Cao fila de sao miguel can go down to 1 or 2 meals a day after his 1st birthday.

These days you get some excellent commercially manufactured dog foods and your veterinarian can help you choose one suited to this particular dog breed. Add in some home-made vegetables, rice and meat every now and then. The idea is to make sure your dog is getting in all the minerals and vitamins he needs.

There is evidence showing that dogs who enjoy raw meat every now and then enjoy a number of health benefits. Skin and teeth are improved, your dog has a shinier coat, less allergies,less inflammation and he is more relaxed and amicable. Ensure a constant supply of fresh, cool water in a clean bowl and at all times.

Exercise:

maremma sheepdog dogs - caringAs already suggested, this large dog will need space and he will need to be exercised. Apart from long walks in he countryside or in the park or your neighborhood, he will also need other activities that stimulate him mentally and physically.

Grooming:

The thick, all-weather coat of the Maremma will need a thorough bushing at least twice a week to get rid of all those loose hairs. When you are brushing him, look around for signs of ticks and fleas too and run your hands over him to feel for any unusual lumps.

Diet:

The Maremma is a large-breed dog, so before you get a big dog like this, decide whether you have the financial means to feed him and look after him properly. He is going to cost a lot to feed, so think it through first.

He will need to be fed a high-quality commercial dog food which has been specially formulated for a dog of his size. Keep the food of dogs simple. We’re all tempted to feed our dog treats like things such as chocolates, coffee, nuts, onions, grapes and raisins but these can cause havoc with your dog’s stomach.

Stick to simple, nutritious food. Boiled chicken, brown rice or pasta and vegetables such as potatoes, spinach and carrots can do wonders for your pet when you sometimes mix this into his kibble.

Try and mix some raw meat into his diet occasionally. Make sure he always has access to fresh, cool water.

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Cao Fila de Sao Miguel vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  2. Cao Fila de Sao Miguel vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  3. Cao Fila de Sao Miguel vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  4. Cao Fila de Sao Miguel vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  5. Cao Fila de Sao Miguel vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  6. Cao Fila de Sao Miguel vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  7. Cao Fila de Sao Miguel vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  8. Cao Fila de Sao Miguel vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  9. Cao Fila de Sao Miguel vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  10. Cao Fila de Sao Miguel vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  11. Cao Fila de Sao Miguel vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  12. Cao Fila de Sao Miguel vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  13. Cao Fila de Sao Miguel vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  14. Cao Fila de Sao Miguel vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  15. Cao Fila de Sao Miguel vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  16. Cao Fila de Sao Miguel vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  17. Cao Fila de Sao Miguel vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  18. Cao Fila de Sao Miguel vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  19. Cao Fila de Sao Miguel vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  20. Cao Fila de Sao Miguel vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  21. Cao Fila de Sao Miguel vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  22. Cao Fila de Sao Miguel vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  23. Cao Fila de Sao Miguel vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  24. Cao Fila de Sao Miguel vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  25. Cao Fila de Sao Miguel vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  26. Maremma Sheepdog vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  27. Maremma Sheepdog vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  28. Maremma Sheepdog vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  29. Maremma Sheepdog vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  30. Maremma Sheepdog vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  31. Maremma Sheepdog vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  32. Maremma Sheepdog vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  33. Maremma Sheepdog vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  34. Maremma Sheepdog vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  35. Maremma Sheepdog vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  36. Maremma Sheepdog vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  37. Maremma Sheepdog vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  38. Maremma Sheepdog vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  39. Maremma Sheepdog vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  40. Maremma Sheepdog vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  41. Maremma Sheepdog vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  42. Maremma Sheepdog vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  43. Maremma Sheepdog vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  44. Maremma Sheepdog vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  45. Maremma Sheepdog vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  46. Maremma Sheepdog vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  47. Maremma Sheepdog vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  48. Maremma Sheepdog vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  49. Maremma Sheepdog vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  50. Maremma Sheepdog vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison