Catalan Sheepdog
Appearance
Catalan sheepdogs range in size from 17 to 19 in (45 to 55 cm) in height and 60 to 80 lb (20 to 27 kg) in weight for males, with females being smaller. Their coat is long and either flat or slightly wavy, and ranges from fawn to dark sable and light to dark grey. There is also a short-haired version of this breed, but is nearly extinct
Temperament
This breed is used for herding and as a companion. Because of its intelligence, the Gos D'Atura, like most sheepdogs, are easy to train. This cheerful dog excels at dog-sports, such as agility and doggy-dance. In spite of its appearance, this courageous dog is also used as a watch-dog. An "all-around-dog" and great companion.
They guard sheep without needing instruction. Enough (outdoor) action and distraction makes this dog a quiet and well-balanced home companion. The breed is appropriate for people with firm techniques and who can give the dog enough exercise. Early socialization is important, particularly if the dog will be around children. The dogs defend their family and become attached to it.
Things You Should Know
Because of its herding background, the Catalan Sheepdog can transfer its driving of flocks to the humans and other animals in its household. You'll find this funny until the hundredth time you've fallen over because your dog is close at your heels.
Obedience training is helpful, but you may need special training to redirect its herding drive. Another trait seen sometimes is nervousness or extreme shyness.
This is a rare breed and, like many other rare breeds, it has few documented health problems. But, unlike most dogs of this smaller size, it can develop hip dysplasia.
Catalan sheepdogs range in size from 17 to 19 in (45 to 55 cm) in height and 60 to 80 lb (20 to 27 kg) in weight for males, with females being smaller. Their coat is long and either flat or slightly wavy, and ranges from fawn to dark sable and light to dark grey. There is also a short-haired version of this breed, but is nearly extinct
Temperament
This breed is used for herding and as a companion. Because of its intelligence, the Gos D'Atura, like most sheepdogs, are easy to train. This cheerful dog excels at dog-sports, such as agility and doggy-dance. In spite of its appearance, this courageous dog is also used as a watch-dog. An "all-around-dog" and great companion.
They guard sheep without needing instruction. Enough (outdoor) action and distraction makes this dog a quiet and well-balanced home companion. The breed is appropriate for people with firm techniques and who can give the dog enough exercise. Early socialization is important, particularly if the dog will be around children. The dogs defend their family and become attached to it.
Things You Should Know
Because of its herding background, the Catalan Sheepdog can transfer its driving of flocks to the humans and other animals in its household. You'll find this funny until the hundredth time you've fallen over because your dog is close at your heels.
Obedience training is helpful, but you may need special training to redirect its herding drive. Another trait seen sometimes is nervousness or extreme shyness.
This is a rare breed and, like many other rare breeds, it has few documented health problems. But, unlike most dogs of this smaller size, it can develop hip dysplasia.
History
The Catalan Sheepdog is an extremely ancient breed of dog whose origin dates back to the period of Roman Empire expansion. When the Roman conquerors arrived in the Iberian Peninsula around 200 to 100 B.C. they brought with them two types of dogs. One breed was used to defend and protect the Roman quarters, to tend their flocks of sheep as well as to help in attacking the enemies. The other, a dog with a lighter build was used to herd cattle. These dogs that were speculated to be the ancestors of the Italian Bergamasco were mated with the native Catalan dogs. Presumably, the crossings resulted to the foundation of various breeds of dogs found these days in the different parts of Europe. Aside from the Catalan Sheepdogs, the other breeds are Portugal’s Ca de Serra d’Aires, the Briard of France, the Petit Berger of the Pyrenees, the Nizzins of Poland and Great Britain’s Bearded Collie and Old English sheepdog. For centuries, the Catalan Sheepdog has remained a versatile working dog. This breed has gained enormous popularity in Spain not only because of its being a prized herder of livestock but also because of its courage and good natured personality. The dog has become a much loved home companion. The dog was also utilized as a messenger and sentry during the Spanish Civil War. Spanish literatures have described the excellent herding abilities of this breed as well as the courage that makes this breed an outstanding guard dog. After the 2nd World War, the dog’s population dramatically declined. Some specimens were destroyed, others were rarely bred. Demographic movement is considered to be the major cause of population decline. During the 1950s and 1960s, a lot of farms were closed when people from the countryside moved into towns. Demand for the breed dwindled, the dogs fell to disuse. In 1970 a group of breeders worked together to regenerate the breed. Remaining specimens were found and bought from the shepherds and intensive breeding was begun. Today the breed is still considered to be rare but thanks to the dedicated breeders, the population is slowly but surely growing. Health The Catalan is a hardy dog and generally enjoys good health. The responsible breeders of The Catalan club have decided in their code of practise to insist the all breeding dogs are BVA Hip scored and Eye tested, so as to reduce the risk of introducing these faults in this country. All owners of Catalan Sheepdogs are encouraged to join the club and inform the committee of any problems. health or otherwise that they encounter on the Catalan Clubs official website. Train ability Due to its need for human relationships and willingness to learn, the Catalan Sheepdog generally responds well to basic training and commands. This breed is highly intelligent and has the ability to learn to perform most any task its trainer is willing to take the time to teach. Establishing immediate trust and respect is key to successfully training the Catalan Sheepdog. These dogs respond best to a confident, patient, and caring handler with a stern yet gentle approach to repetitive exercises and tasks. |
Height - 17-19 inches (45-55 cm)
Weight - 45-60 pounds (20-27 kg
Life expectancy - 12-14 years
Litter size - 3-6
Other names - Gos d'Atura Català, Catalonian shepherd, Catalonian sheepdog
Weight - 45-60 pounds (20-27 kg
Life expectancy - 12-14 years
Litter size - 3-6
Other names - Gos d'Atura Català, Catalonian shepherd, Catalonian sheepdog