Overview
The Mantiqueira Shepherd is a herding dog from the mountains of south-eastern Brazil, where it works mainly with cattle. It is valued for being quick to learn and dependable at its job.
The breed is recognised by several Brazilian and Latin American kennel clubs, and it comes in long, medium and short coat varieties.
History
The breed developed in the Serra da Mantiqueira, a mountain range in Brazil's Southeast Region, as a practical helper for cattle drovers. Its local nicknames, Policialzinho and Pastor Brasileiro, reflect its watchful, orderly way of handling stock.
In recent decades it has gained recognition from SOBRACI, the América Latina Kennel Club and the Brazilian Confederation of Cynophilia, the main Brazilian FCI affiliate.
Appearance
A medium-sized, sturdy dog, with males standing about 53 cm at the withers and weighing up to about 25 kg. There are three coat varieties: long, medium and short, and the short coat can be smooth or curly.
Temperament
Intelligent and attentive, the Mantiqueira Shepherd is a natural worker that enjoys having a job to do. It tends to be loyal to its family and watchful of its surroundings, which suits its nickname of Little Policeman.
Care and exercise
This is an active working dog that needs plenty of daily exercise and mental stimulation, ideally with real tasks or training games. Coat care is simple, with brushing needs depending on whether the coat is short, medium or long. It is happiest with space to move.
