Barbado da Terceira

The Barbado da Terceira comes from the Azore Island. These dogs likely descended from dogs brought by settlers who arrived on the island as early as the 15th century. Initially employed to manage wild cattle, they quickly proved their worth with their agility and knack for herding.

In the past, the Barbado da Terceira was used in handling and driving cattle. As times changed, so did the role of Barbado da Terceira. While they continue to excel in traditional working roles, they've also found a place in modern households as companions and guard dogs.

1. Barbado da Terceira History- Source: AKC

In the 1990s, extensive studies shed light on the unique characteristics of the Barbado da Terceira, leading to its formal recognition as a distinct breed. The Portugues Canicultura Club (CPC) recognized this breed in 2004. The breed's recognition expanded internationally when the American Kennel Club (AKC) included it in their Foundation Stock Service in 2021.

Barbado da Terceira dogs are known for their special personalities, which include being very loyal and protective. 

They love their owners a lot and need plenty of time and attention from them to be happy. Because they were originally bred to work, it's important to teach them early on that their owner is the boss. If they don't learn this, they might start to act bossy or even aggressive.

In short, Barbado da Terceira dogs have lovable personalities that mix loyalty, protectiveness, and affection. With the right training and care, they can be wonderful members of the family, showing endless love and devotion to their owners.

• Potential challenges

Prospective owners of Barbado da Terceira dogs should be aware of common challenges associated with the breed. Their strong herding instincts may lead to behaviors like nipping or herding family members and pets if not properly trained and socialized. Additionally, their loyalty and protectiveness, while admirable, can result in territorial or possessive behaviors if not addressed early on. 

Owners must establish leadership and provide consistent training to prevent potential aggression or dominance issues. Their reserved nature around strangers requires careful socialization to avoid fear-based aggression or anxiety in unfamiliar situations. By acknowledging and addressing these potential challenges, owners can better prepare for the responsibilities of caring for a Barbado da Terceira dog.

Barbado da Terceira dogs possess striking features that add to their allure. 

They have expressive eyes that convey intelligence and alertness, often appearing dark and soulful beneath their furrowed brows. Their ears are medium-sized and triangular , typically held erect when attentive, contributing to their attentive and alert expression.

• Size

The Barbado da Terceira typically falls into the medium to large size category. Males generally stand between 21 to 24 inches at the shoulder, while females range from 19 to 22 inches. 

Barbado da Terceira dogs typically weigh between 66 to 88 pounds, with males tending to be heavier and more robust than females. 

• Coat Color and Texture

Their coat comes in varied colors such as fawn, gray, yellow, and black, Barbado da Terceira dogs have a distinct coat texture that is dense and weather-resistant. 

They have a long wavy, double coat. While a softer undercoat provides insulation against cold weather. The Barbado da Terceira's coat is usually of moderate or long length. 

1. Fawn Barbado da Terceira - Source: barbado_da_terceira_nl
2. Black Barbado da Terceira - Source: cpbarbadodaterceira
3. Grey Barbado da Terceira - Source: americankennelclub

Male Barbado da Terceira dogs are usually a bit bigger and stronger than females, but both genders have the same behavior and temperament.

Providing the right nutrition and diet is very important to keep your dogs healthy and happy. They need a balanced diet to stay strong and full of energy. This means giving them good-quality dog food that matches their age, size, and how active they are.

It's also important to add lots of protein and nutrient rich food in their diet. They usually are not prone to obesity and can eat more than other breeds. However, it's still important to maintain a balance and provide them with regular exercise.

So, keeping an eye on how much they eat and making sure they get enough exercise is key to keeping them in top shape.

Barbado Da Terceira are a generally strong and healthy breed. They are usually not susceptible to major or serious health concerns, but may suffer from some common ones:

• Hip Dysplasia: This condition affects the hip joints and can cause discomfort or difficulty moving, especially as the dog gets older. Keeping them at a healthy weight and providing regular exercise can help reduce the risk.
• Bloat: Also known as gastric dilation-volvulus (GDV), bloat is a serious condition where the stomach fills with gas and twists. It's important to feed them smaller meals throughout the day and avoid vigorous exercise right after eating to prevent this.
• Allergies: Some Barbado da Terceira dogs may develop allergies to things like pollen, dust, or certain foods. Paying attention to any signs of itching, scratching, or skin irritation can help manage these allergies with the help of a veterinarian.

It's crucial to note the significance of regular veterinary check-ups and proactive healthcare routines in prioritizing the well-being and longevity of Barbado da Terceira dogs.

Barbado da Terceira dogs are considered medium maintenance and require regular grooming to ensure their well-being. 

Despite their short coats, these dogs require attention to keep their fur in top condition. Weekly brushing is essential to remove loose hair and minimize shedding, preventing mats and tangles from forming. 

Additionally, maintaining their nails at an appropriate length is crucial for their comfort and mobility. Regular nail trimming every few weeks helps prevent discomfort and potential issues with walking. 

Maintaining dental hygiene by brushing teeth a few times weekly with dog toothpaste and a soft brush is vital for Barbado da Terceira dogs. Regular ear checks and cleaning prevent infections and discomfort. 

Along with grooming, Barbado da Terceira dogs need regular exercise to stay healthy and active. Daily walks, runs, or playtime are essential to keep them fit and mentally stimulated. Incorporating dog training tips into these activities, like practicing commands during walks or teaching new tricks during play, helps channel their energy positively while reinforcing good behavior.

For those interested in adopting a Barbado da Terceira, rescue organizations specializing in the breed may be able to provide loving homes for dogs in need of a second chance.

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The average Barbado da Terceira price ranges from $500 to $1000. If you're looking to buy a Barbado da Terceira puppy, it's best to find a good breeder who cares about the health of their dogs.

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• The breed is recognized by the Portuguese Kennel Club and is gaining popularity as a versatile and affectionate family pet in Portugal.
• The Barbado da Terceira is a rare breed originating from the Azores, a group of islands in Portugal. It is not widely known outside of its native region.

The Barbado da Terceira thrives as a loyal and versatile family pet, combining protective instincts with gentle companionship.