Patagonian Sheepdog
Also known as Ovejero Magallánico · Barbucho · Magellan Sheepdog
Chile, Working and herding dogs
- Size
- Medium
- Height
- 50–55 cm
- Weight
- 20–24 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–14 yrs
- Hardy
- Alert
- Hard-working
- Weatherproof
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
The Patagonian Sheepdog is a medium-sized, long and rough-coated herding dog from the far south of Chile. It was shaped by sheep farmers in the Magallanes region, where wind, cold and rain are a constant part of working life. Its thick coat is its best defence against that climate.
Size
- Size
- Medium
- Height at shoulder
- 50–55 cm
- Adult weight
- 20–24 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 Patagonian Sheepdogs 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 first and foremost a working stockdog, so expect a keen, responsive dog that likes to be busy and close to its handler. There is little published on its temperament as a companion, but herding dogs of this background are usually biddable and alert.
- Hardy
- Alert
- Hard-working
- Weatherproof
Food
For a typical 22 kg adult- Energy
- ≈ 1,140 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Water
- 880 ml–1.3 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 herding breed bred for long days on the steppe needs a lot of daily exercise and mental work. Herding, scent games or dog sports are a good outlet if it is not working stock.
Grooming & shedding
The long, weatherproof coat needs regular brushing, perhaps two or three times a week, to stop tangles and remove dead hair. Pay attention behind the ears and on the legs.
Health
This breed is very rare outside southern Chile and Argentina, and is mainly kept by farmers. Anyone hoping to own one should expect to contact working breeders directly. Reward-based training suits it well. See a vet for lameness or skin problems under the heavy coat.
The breed can be prone to
- Very little breed-specific health information is available
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Hip scoring
- Eye examination
Not every Patagonian Sheepdog is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. See common conditions and the symptom checker.
History
The breed developed in the late 1800s and early 1900s as sheep farming spread across Chilean Patagonia. Its ancestors were working dogs brought by European settlers, and it may be related to old Welsh sheepdogs that arrived with Welsh colonists in neighbouring Argentina. Genetic studies have since pointed to links with British sheepdogs, and the Kennel Club de Chile publishes a breed standard.
- Country of origin
- Chile
- Type
- Working and herding dogs
- Recognition
- Recognised by the Kennel Club de Chile; not recognised by the FCI, AKC or The Kennel Club
Is a Patagonian Sheepdog 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
Cost to keep
About average- Moderate food and insurance costs
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- 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.
Patagonian Sheepdog FAQ
How big does a Patagonian Sheepdog get?
Adult Patagonian Sheepdogs typically stand about 50–55 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 20–24 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Patagonian Sheepdogs 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 Patagonian Sheepdog 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 Patagonian Sheepdog need?
Brushing a few times a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Patagonian Sheepdogs easy to train?
Usually quick to learn with reward-based training.
Do Patagonian Sheepdogs shed?
A moderate amount. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Patagonian Sheepdogs 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 Patagonian Sheepdog live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Patagonian Sheepdogs have?
The breed can be prone to very little breed-specific health information is available. Not every Patagonian Sheepdog 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.