Overview
The Ovelheiro Gaúcho is a medium-sized herding dog from the Pampas of southern Brazil. It looks much like a Border Collie or Rough Collie, and is valued for toughness and agility.
It is quick to learn, alert and calm at home. Although it is not recognised by the FCI, it has been recognised by the Brazilian kennel club CBKC.
History
Collie-type herding dogs arrived in Rio Grande do Sul with European immigrants in the late 19th century. Gauchos then selected them for herding skill and for suitability to the local climate and work, and the Ovelheiro Gaúcho emerged.
Border Collies reached the region in the 1950s with Australian Merino sheep, but by then the local type was established. Breeders avoided crossing the two because their herding styles differ.
Appearance
The breed is medium-sized, sturdy and agile. It resembles the Border Collie and Rough Collie, being larger than the former and slightly smaller than a typical show or pet Rough Collie.
The coat is of moderate length, with or without an undercoat, and comes in a variety of colours.
Temperament
These dogs are intelligent, learn commands quickly and are not rough with their stock. They are docile and friendly with their human family.
They are alert to strangers and unfamiliar dogs and make good watchdogs, though they rarely attack intruders.
Care and exercise
As a working herding dog it needs daily exercise, mental tasks and ideally real work or dog sports. Early socialisation and consistent, positive training suit its quick mind.
Brush the moderate-length coat weekly, and more often when it sheds.
