Boca-preta Sertanejo
Also known as Sertanejo Dog · Cão Sertanejo · Boca-Preta
Brazil, Landraces and village dogs
- Size
- Medium
- Height
- 45–52 cm
- Weight
- 13–17 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–15 yrs
- Hardy
- Versatile
- Alert
- Resourceful
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
The Boca-preta Sertanejo is a hardy landrace from the dry backlands of north-east Brazil, traditionally kept by cowboys and small farmers. It is a medium-sized, short-coated dog, often bay, brindle, red or black and tan, frequently with a dark muzzle. It is only now being studied and formalised as a breed.
Size
- Size
- Medium
- Height at shoulder
- 45–52 cm
- Adult weight
- 13–17 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 Boca-preta Sertanejos 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
These are versatile, practical dogs used for hunting small game, working cattle and guarding homesteads, and they are also kept as companions. They tend to be alert, resourceful and closely tied to their people.
- Hardy
- Versatile
- Alert
- Resourceful
Food
For a typical 15 kg adult- Energy
- ≈ 850 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Water
- 600 ml–900 ml
- 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 dayAn active working dog that needs daily exercise and enjoys tracking and outdoor work.
Grooming & shedding
The short coat is very low maintenance; a weekly brush is plenty.
Health
Naturally selected in a harsh climate, it is a tough, thrifty dog. Early socialisation and regular activity keep it settled. Very little has been written about its health or behaviour outside Brazil.
The breed can be prone to
- Little breed-specific health data published
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- General veterinary check
Not every Boca-preta Sertanejo is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. See common conditions and the symptom checker.
History
The breed is thought to descend from dogs kept by Indigenous peoples in north-east Brazil, possibly mixed with podengo-type and other European hunting dogs. A 1614 missionary account mentions native dogs called Januare, and 17th-century Dutch Brazil paintings show similar animals. Embrapa began measuring and cataloguing the dogs in 2011 as part of a preservation project.
- Country of origin
- Brazil
- Type
- Landraces and village dogs
- Recognition
- Registered by SOBRACI and ALKC in Brazil and working towards breed status; not recognised by the FCI, AKC or The Kennel Club
Is a Boca-preta Sertanejo right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
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.
Boca-preta Sertanejo FAQ
How big does a Boca-preta Sertanejo get?
Adult Boca-preta Sertanejos typically stand about 45–52 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 13–17 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Boca-preta Sertanejos 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 Boca-preta Sertanejo 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 Boca-preta Sertanejo need?
An occasional brush is plenty. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Boca-preta Sertanejos easy to train?
Generally trainable with consistent, reward-based practice.
Do Boca-preta Sertanejos shed?
A little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Boca-preta Sertanejos 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 Boca-preta Sertanejo live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Boca-preta Sertanejos have?
The breed can be prone to little breed-specific health data published. Not every Boca-preta Sertanejo 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.