Can de Palleiro
Also known as Can do Gando · Can Lobo · Lobeiro
Spain, Working and herding dogs
- Size
- Large
- Height
- 57–65 cm
- Weight
- 25–38 kg
- Life expectancy
- 11–14 yrs
- Loyal
- Protective
- Hardy
- Hard-working
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
The Can de Palleiro is a Galician shepherd dog, named after the haystack where it traditionally slept. It is a medium-to-large, wolf-like dog with a thick coat that comes in sand, cinnamon, chestnut, wolf-grey or black. It nearly vanished in the late twentieth century and is still uncommon.
Size
- Size
- Large
- Height at shoulder
- 57–65 cm
- Adult weight
- 25–38 kg
Typical adult ranges. Males are often at the top of the range and females at the bottom. Bigger breeds keep filling out until 18–24 months.
Lifespan
11–14 years
Most Can de Palleiros live 11–14 years. Like other large dogs, they're usually considered senior from about 7, 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
Kept both to work livestock and to guard farmhouses, it tends to be loyal and protective, with natural wariness towards strangers. Its working background means it likes having a purpose.
- Loyal
- Protective
- Hardy
- Hard-working
Food
For a typical 31.5 kg adult- Energy
- ≈ 1,490 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Water
- 1.3 L–1.9 L
- a day, from all sources
- Most adults do well on two measured meals a day rather than one large one.
- Puppies of large breeds need a diet made for large-breed growth, so they grow steadily rather than fast.
- 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 plenty of daily exercise and mental work. Herding, tracking or search activities suit it well.
Grooming & shedding
The dense coat thickens in winter and sheds seasonally, so brush it weekly and more often during moults.
Health
Socialise thoroughly and train with patience and consistency. Some dogs now work in search and rescue or police roles, showing how well they respond to purposeful training. Very little breed-specific health information has been published.
The breed can be prone to
- Little breed-specific health data published
- Hip dysplasia (general risk in dogs of this size)
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Hip scoring
Not every Can de Palleiro is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. See common conditions and the symptom checker.
History
Once found all over Galicia, the breed had come close to extinction before the Xunta de Galicia recognised it in April 2001 and opened a stud-book. National recognition followed by royal decree the same year, and a breed club formed in 2002. It survives mainly in parts of Ourense, Pontevedra, Lugo and A Coruña, and the Spanish kennel club lists it among breeds in recovery.
- Country of origin
- Spain
- Type
- Working and herding dogs
- Recognition
- Recognised by the Spanish Ministry of Agriculture and the Xunta de Galicia; not recognised by the FCI, AKC or The Kennel Club
Is a Can de Palleiro 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
- You need a dog you can easily lift or carry
Cost to keep
Higher than average- Food, insurance and medicines cost more for a big dog
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 11–14 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.
Can de Palleiro FAQ
How big does a Can de Palleiro get?
Adult Can de Palleiros typically stand about 57–65 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 25–38 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Can de Palleiros live?
Typically 11–14 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 Can de Palleiro 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 Palleiro need?
A brush once a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Can de Palleiros easy to train?
Usually quick to learn with reward-based training.
Do Can de Palleiros shed?
A moderate amount. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Can de Palleiros 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 Palleiro 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 Palleiros have?
The breed can be prone to little breed-specific health data published, hip dysplasia (general risk in dogs of this size). Not every Can de Palleiro 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.