Breed facts
| FCI group | Group 1: Sheepdogs and cattle dogs |
| Origin | Portugal |
| Weight | 17–27 kg |
| Height | 42–55 cm |
| Life expectancy | 12–13 years |
Temperament
Intelligent, lively and loyal, very attached to the family. An excellent herding dog, wary of strangers.
History
A Portuguese breed from the Alentejo and Ribatejo regions, used to drive flocks of sheep; the name is linked to the Serra de Aires.
Fun facts
It is sometimes called the “monkey dog”, for the expression of its bearded, moustached face.
The Serra de Aires Sheepdog coat
A coat with a dense undercoat and a longer outer layer. It sheds a lot, especially during the moult.
The long, rough coat, with beard and moustache, tangles on the legs and belly.
What we do in the salon
We bathe with a suitable shampoo, remove the dead hair from the undercoat, then dry and brush thoroughly. We do not recommend shaving this type of coat: it protects against cold and heat and may not grow back the same.
Recommended services
- Bathabout 1 h
How often?
| Bath | every 6 to 8 weeks (and during the moult) |
| Cut / upkeep | Clipping is not recommended; remove the undercoat during the moult (spring and autumn). |
Care at home between visits
- Brush 2 to 3 times a week, and every day during the moult.
- Use a slicker or undercoat rake, always down to the skin.
- Do not shave: the undercoat helps regulate temperature.
- Dry the undercoat well after a bath to avoid damp and odour.
Frequently asked questions about the Serra de Aires Sheepdog
Does the Serra de Aires Sheepdog shed a lot?
It sheds moderately. Brushing once or twice a week and a bath with dead-hair removal keeps the home and the coat tidy.
How often should I bring my Serra de Aires Sheepdog to the salon?
In general, a bath every 6 to 8 weeks (and during the moult). Clipping is not recommended; remove the undercoat during the moult (spring and autumn). It depends on the coat, the cut you like and the condition of the coat: we will advise you at the first visit.
How long do a bath and a clip take?
When you book online, 1 hour is reserved for a bath and 2 hours for a clip, scissor cut or hand stripping. Very dense coats or large breeds may need more time: talk to us.
Can I shave the coat in summer?
We do not recommend it: the undercoat helps regulate temperature and the coat may not grow back the same. It is better to remove dead hair with a bath and brushing.
Weight and height values are approximate and vary from dog to dog. Based on FCI standards and public breed profiles; care text: DogsClub. Last updated: October 2026.