Villano de Las Encartaciones
Also known as Enkarterriko Billano · Villanu
Spain, Working and herding dogs
- Size
- Large
- Height
- 55–60 cm
- Weight
- 30–40 kg
- Life expectancy
- 10–13 yrs
- Bold
- Determined
- Hardy
- Loyal
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
The Villano de Las Encartaciones is a large, powerful cattle dog from the Basque province of Biscay. It has a short, hard, close coat in brindled fawn. Its history is tied to the semi-wild Monchina cattle it helps gather from mountain pastures, and it is one of the most endangered Basque breeds.
Size
- Size
- Large
- Height at shoulder
- 55–60 cm
- Adult weight
- 30–40 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
10–13 years
Most Villano de Las Encartacioness live 10–13 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
It is a bold, determined working dog used to handling cattle, so it is confident and physically capable. With its family it can be a devoted companion, but it needs an owner who understands working breeds.
- Bold
- Determined
- Hardy
- Loyal
Food
For a typical 35 kg adult- Energy
- ≈ 1,610 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Water
- 1.4 L–2.1 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 substantial daily exercise and is happiest with real work or demanding activities.
Grooming & shedding
The short, hard coat needs only a weekly brush.
Health
Early socialisation and consistent training are essential for a strong dog bred partly from catch-dog stock. Its numbers are very small, so contact the national breed club about breeders. There is very little published health information.
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 Villano de Las Encartaciones is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. See common conditions and the symptom checker.
History
Traditionally, smaller Villanos cut out and drove Monchina cattle while heavier Alano Español dogs caught them. From the 1960s breeders crossed the two to produce a single dog that could do both jobs, giving rise to the modern Villano. A breed club formed in 1997, the Basque government published a standard in 2003 and national recognition followed in 2005. Fewer than 200 dogs were registered in 2009.
- Country of origin
- Spain
- Type
- Working and herding dogs
- Recognition
- Recognised by the Basque government and the Spanish Ministry of Agriculture; not recognised by the Real Sociedad Canina de España, FCI, AKC or The Kennel Club
Is a Villano de Las Encartaciones 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
- 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 10–13 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.
Villano de Las Encartaciones FAQ
How big does a Villano de Las Encartaciones get?
Adult Villano de Las Encartacioness typically stand about 55–60 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 30–40 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Villano de Las Encartacioness live?
Typically 10–13 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 Villano de Las Encartaciones 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 Villano de Las Encartaciones need?
An occasional brush is plenty. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Villano de Las Encartacioness easy to train?
Generally trainable with consistent, reward-based practice.
Do Villano de Las Encartacioness shed?
A little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Villano de Las Encartacioness 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 Villano de Las Encartaciones live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Villano de Las Encartacioness have?
The breed can be prone to little breed-specific health data published, hip dysplasia (general risk in dogs of this size). Not every Villano de Las Encartaciones 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.