Basque Shepherd Dog
Also known as Euskal Artzain Txakurra · Perro de Pastor Vasco · Berger Basque
Spain, Working and herding dogs
- Size
- Medium
- Height
- 46–63 cm
- Weight
- 17–36 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–15 yrs
- Intelligent
- Hard-working
- Loyal
- Agile
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
The Basque Shepherd Dog is a medium-sized, rectangular sheepdog from the Basque Country with a moderately long coat in warm shades of red, fawn or cinnamon. There are two varieties: the Gorbeiakoa, with a soft, smooth coat, and the Iletsua, whose coat is rougher and shaggier. It remains a working dog and is the usual choice in traditional Basque sheepdog trials.
Size
- Size
- Medium
- Height at shoulder
- 46–63 cm
- Adult weight
- 17–36 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
12–15 years
Most Basque Shepherd Dogs live 12–15 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 an intelligent, willing worker that is happiest when busy alongside its handler. It is usually loyal to its family and watchful about its farm or home.
- Intelligent
- Hard-working
- Loyal
- Agile
Food
For a typical 26.5 kg adult- Energy
- ≈ 1,310 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Water
- 1.1 L–1.6 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 dayA true herding dog, it needs a lot of daily exercise and mental work. Herding, agility, obedience and long hikes all suit it.
Grooming & shedding
Brush weekly, and more often for the rougher Iletsua coat or during seasonal shedding.
Health
It does best with active owners who can give it training and a job to do. It is listed as a vulnerable native breed in Spain, with only a few hundred dogs, and is rare elsewhere. 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
- Eye examination
Not every Basque Shepherd Dog is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. See common conditions and the symptom checker.
History
Dogs of this type appear in Basque mythology and in church frescoes from the sixteenth century, and later in works by artists such as Gustave Doré. The Spanish kennel club recognised both varieties in 1996, followed by official government recognition in 2001 and 2002. In the 1950s some Basque shepherds took their dogs to the United States.
- Country of origin
- Spain
- Type
- Working and herding dogs
- Recognition
- Recognised by the Real Sociedad Canina de España and the Spanish government; not recognised by the FCI, AKC or The Kennel Club
Is a Basque Shepherd Dog right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
- First-time owners prepared to train consistently
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
Cost to keep
About average- Moderate food and insurance costs
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 12–15 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.
Basque Shepherd Dog FAQ
How big does a Basque Shepherd Dog get?
Adult Basque Shepherd Dogs typically stand about 46–63 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 17–36 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Basque Shepherd Dogs live?
Typically 12–15 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 Basque Shepherd Dog 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 Basque Shepherd Dog need?
A brush once a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Basque Shepherd Dogs easy to train?
Usually quick to learn with reward-based training.
Do Basque Shepherd Dogs shed?
A moderate amount. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Basque Shepherd Dogs good with children?
They usually do well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Basque Shepherd Dog live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Basque Shepherd Dogs 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 Basque Shepherd Dog 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.