Overview
The Barbado da Terceira is a medium-sized herding and guard dog from the island of Terceira in the Azores. It is muscular and solidly built, with a long, thick, wavy coat and a distinct beard.
It remains rare, with a small population mostly on its home island and a few abroad.
History
The breed comes from dogs brought to the Azores by settlers and visitors from the fifteenth century onwards, especially those suited to cattle work. It was used both to herd and to guard.
Portugal's kennel club and veterinary authority recognised it in 2004. A census the next year counted 222 dogs. The American Kennel Club's Foundation Stock Service has included it since 2021, but the FCI has not recognised it.
Appearance
A muscular, sturdy dog of medium size, about 55 cm at the withers and around 25 kg, with a body slightly longer than it is tall. The long, thick, wavy coat has a dense undercoat and is heaviest around the head, forming the beard that gives the breed its name.
Colours include yellow, grey, black, fawn and wolf-grey in any shade, with or without white markings.
Temperament
The Barbado is a dependable, intelligent working dog, loyal to its family and watchful with strangers. It was bred for both herding and guarding, so it is alert and protective.
With early socialisation it can be a steady companion, though it does best with an active home.
Care and exercise
It needs daily exercise and a job or activity to occupy it. Early socialisation and consistent training help channel its guarding instincts.
Brush the long wavy coat several times a week to avoid tangles, especially around the beard, and bathe as needed.
