Breed facts
| FCI group | Group 2: Pinscher and Schnauzer, Molossoid and Swiss mountain dogs |
| Origin | Portugal |
| Weight | 30–60 kg |
| Height | 62–73 cm |
| Life expectancy | 10–12 years |
Temperament
Brave, loyal and independent, it protects the flock and the family. Calm at home.
History
One of the oldest Portuguese livestock breeds, used by shepherds of the Serra da Estrela to protect flocks from wolves.
Fun facts
It is regarded as one of the symbols of Portuguese pastoral culture.
The Estrela Mountain Dog coat
A coat with a dense undercoat and a longer outer layer. It sheds a lot, especially during the moult.
There are long-haired and short-haired varieties; a guardian and herding breed with a dense coat.
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). |
Special attention
A large breed: when booking, tell us your dog’s size so we can prepare.
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 Estrela Mountain Dog
Does the Estrela Mountain Dog shed a lot?
It sheds a lot, especially during the moult (spring and autumn). Regular brushing and a bath with dead-hair removal help a great deal.
How often should I bring my Estrela Mountain Dog 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.