Can de Chira
Also known as Perro Pastor Altoaragonés · Alto Aragón Shepherd Dog
Spain, Working and herding dogs
- Size
- Medium
- Height
- 38–47 cm
- Weight
- 12–20 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–15 yrs
- Agile
- Alert
- Hard-working
- Hardy
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
The Can de Chira is a small-to-medium sheepdog from the mountains of Alto Aragón in north-eastern Spain. It is usually black with white on the face, legs, chest and belly, and has a medium-length coat that is longer on the body and legs than on the head. Only a small number of dogs remain, mostly in the Ribagorza and Sobrarbe districts.
Size
- Size
- Medium
- Height at shoulder
- 38–47 cm
- Adult weight
- 12–20 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 Can de Chiras 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
Very little has been written about its temperament. As a traditional shepherd's dog it is expected to be alert, quick and responsive to its handler when working sheep and cattle.
- Agile
- Alert
- Hard-working
- Hardy
Food
For a typical 16 kg adult- Energy
- ≈ 900 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Water
- 640 ml–960 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 dayA working herding dog like this needs plenty of daily activity and a job to do, whether that is stock work or structured training and games.
Grooming & shedding
Brush the coat once or twice a week, paying attention to the longer hair on the body and legs where tangles can form.
Health
This is a rare regional dog, and most are kept by shepherds rather than as pets. Anyone interested will need to make contact with breeders in Aragón. No breed-specific health information has been published.
The breed can be prone to
- No published breed-specific health data
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- General veterinary check
- Hip scoring
Not every Can de Chira is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. See common conditions and the symptom checker.
History
Spanish graziers have described dogs like this for several centuries, and the earliest photographs date from the early twentieth century. It was once widespread in the province of Huesca and used by shepherds in Navarre, Catalonia and across the border in Occitanie. Its numbers have since shrunk to a small remnant in the Pyrenean valleys.
- Country of origin
- Spain
- Type
- Working and herding dogs
- Recognition
- Not recognised by the FCI, AKC, The Kennel Club or the Real Sociedad Canina de España
Is a Can de Chira 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.
Can de Chira FAQ
How big does a Can de Chira get?
Adult Can de Chiras typically stand about 38–47 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 12–20 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Can de Chiras 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 Can de Chira 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 Can de Chira need?
A brush once a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Can de Chiras easy to train?
Usually quick to learn with reward-based training.
Do Can de Chiras shed?
A moderate amount. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Can de Chiras 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 Can de Chira live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Can de Chiras have?
The breed can be prone to no published breed-specific health data. Not every Can de Chira 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.