Notes

The Transmontano Mastiff, also known as the Cão de Gado Transmontano, is a Portuguese livestock guardian dog from the north-eastern Portugal. It is a rare breed, still mostly confined to its area of origin. The breed was developed to work in groups to protect cattle, sheep, and goats from a number of threats, particularly Iberian wolf attacks. It is related to the Rafeiro do Alentejo, another Portuguese livestock guardian dog, and is thought to be related to the Tibetan Mastiff (though no evidence of this exists).

Docile and reserved, the Transmontano Mastiff, is cautious without being aggressive. It is a large, molossoid dog with strong, rustic features and a sober expression. It has a square profile, high limbs, and is naturally straight and upright with a slightly tucked in belly. Males are noticeably taller and bulkier than females.

Breed Files