Barbado da Terceira
Also known as Terceira Cattle Dog
Portugal, Working and herding dogs
- Size
- Medium
- Height
- 48–58 cm
- Weight
- 21–30 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–14 yrs
- Energetic
- Alert
- Hard-working
- Devoted
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
The Barbado da Terceira is a sturdy, medium-sized herding and guard dog from the island of Terceira in the Azores. It has a long, wavy, thick coat with a dense undercoat, and the heavy hair under the jaw gives the breed its name, which means bearded. Colours include yellow, grey, black and fawn, often with white markings.
Size
- Size
- Medium
- Height at shoulder
- 48–58 cm
- Adult weight
- 21–30 kg
Typical adult ranges. Males are often at the top of the range and females at the bottom. Most reach adult size by around 12 months.
Lifespan
12–14 years
Most Barbado da Terceiras live 12–14 years. Like other medium dogs, they're usually considered senior from about 8, when twice-yearly vet checks help catch problems early. Keeping them lean is one of the most effective things you can do for a long life. How old is that in human years?
Temperament
It is a working cattle dog, so expect an energetic, alert dog that is keen to be busy and watchful about its home. With good socialisation it is usually devoted to its family.
- Energetic
- Alert
- Hard-working
- Devoted
Food
For a typical 25.5 kg adult- Energy
- ≈ 1,270 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Water
- 1 L–1.5 L
- a day, from all sources
- Most adults do well on two measured meals a day rather than one large one.
- Choose a complete food for their life stage, and ask your vet before changing diet if they have a health condition.
Starting points only — age, activity and the food itself change the numbers. Work out portions for your dog · Foods to avoid
Exercise
90–120 min a dayIt needs a good amount of daily exercise and something to do with its mind, such as herding, obedience or agility. It is not suited to a sedentary home.
Grooming & shedding
The long double coat needs thorough brushing several times a week to prevent mats, especially around the beard, ears and legs. Expect heavier shedding at seasonal changes.
Health
Its guarding instinct means early socialisation with visitors and other dogs matters. The breed is uncommon outside Portugal, though a small number live in the United States. Little breed-specific health information has been published.
The breed can be prone to
- Little published breed-specific health data
- Hip dysplasia (a general risk in dogs of this size)
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Hip scoring
- Elbow scoring
- Eye examination
Not every Barbado da Terceira is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. See common conditions and the symptom checker.
History
The breed comes from the mix of dogs brought to the Azores by settlers and visitors from the fifteenth century onwards, selected locally for handling cattle and guarding farms. Work by the Portuguese kennel club, Terceira's agriculture department and the University of the Azores led to official recognition in 2004. A census in 2005 counted just over two hundred dogs.
- Country of origin
- Portugal
- Type
- Working and herding dogs
- Recognition
- Recognised by the Clube Português de Canicultura since 2004 and in the AKC Foundation Stock Service since 2021; not recognised by the FCI or The Kennel Club
Is a Barbado da Terceira right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- First-time owners prepared to train consistently
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
- You don't have time for frequent brushing or the cost of professional grooming
Cost to keep
About average- Moderate food and insurance costs
- Regular professional grooming adds up
- A 12–14 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Not sure? Try the breed finder.
Barbado da Terceira FAQ
How big does a Barbado da Terceira get?
Adult Barbado da Terceiras typically stand about 48–58 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 21–30 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Barbado da Terceiras live?
Typically 12–14 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Barbado da Terceira need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Barbado da Terceira need?
Brushing most days. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Barbado da Terceiras easy to train?
Usually quick to learn with reward-based training.
Do Barbado da Terceiras shed?
A moderate amount. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Barbado da Terceiras good with children?
Many get on well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Barbado da Terceira live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Barbado da Terceiras have?
The breed can be prone to little published breed-specific health data, hip dysplasia (a general risk in dogs of this size). Not every Barbado da Terceira is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by the Petopedia editorial team to our editorial standards. General guidance, not veterinary advice.