Are Estrelas good family dogs?
If you are looking for a canine addition to your family that will be loyal, protective and obedient, consider an Estrela Mountain Dog. This breed dates back to ancient times as a working dog that guarded sheep on the Serra da Estrela Mountains in Portugal. Estrelas enjoy cold climates, but can tolerate warmer temperatures. They can be kept in apartments, but homes with yards are preferable, as they need to get daily exercise. If you do live in an apartment, you should take the dog out for a good half hour walk every day. Aside from the Estrelas physical needs, daily outings also keep him more psychologically balanced. Unlike some breeds, Estrelas do not require a lot of grooming. Of course he should be bathed now and then and brushing his coat weekly should be sufficient. Actually, there are two types of Estrela dogs – one with very short hair and one with longer hair. Whichever you choose, the dog will molt once a year at which time he will lose a lot of fur and will need more thoroug
