Barbado da Terceira

The Barbado da Terceira also referred to as the Terceira Mastiff hails from the Azores, specifically the captivating island of Terceira in Portugal. With a history deeply rooted in the island’s rural traditions, this breed has garnered attention for its unique characteristics and versatile nature. Beyond their working roles, they have become cherished family members, blending loyalty with a gentle disposition.
Breed Group

Breed Group

Purebred

Height

Height

19 to 22 inches

Weight

Weight

46 to 60 pounds

Life Span

Life Span

12 to 14 years

Average Cost

Average Cost

Average Cost

Color

Color

Fawn, Black, Grey, Yellow

AKC Group

AKC Group

Not Recognized

All About Breed

Read on to discover all you need to know about the Barbado da Terceira breed and determine if it’s the perfect pet for you and your lifestyle.

In This Article
Barbado da Terceira History/Origin

Barbado da Terceira History/Origin

The Barbado da Terceira comes from the Azore Island. These purebred 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 historyBarbado da Terceira History- Source: AKC.org

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 Personality

Barbado da Terceira Personality

Barbado da Terceira is one of the dog breeds that 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.

Personality-Moderately Social

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 Physical Appearance

Barbado da Terceira Physical Appearance

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. 

Dogs size-Medium

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 TerceiraFawn Barbado da Terceira – Source: barbado_da_terceira_nl
  2. Black Barbado da TerceiraBlack Barbado da Terceira – Source: cpbarbadodaterceira
  3. Grey Barbado da TerceiraGrey Barbado da Terceira – Source: americankennelclub
Barbado da Terceira Gender Differences

Barbado da Terceira Gender Differences

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

Barbado da Terceira Feed/Nutrition

Barbado da Terceira Feed/Nutrition

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. You can include pineapple as a healthy treat in moderation, as it’s packed with vitamins and enzymes beneficial for digestion.

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 Health

Barbado da Terceira Health

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 canine gastric torsion, 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.

arbado da Terceira Care and Grooming Tips

arbado da Terceira Care and Grooming Tips

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.

Weekly grooming- high exercise needs of dogs. thepetworld.org

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.

Barbado da Terceira Rescue Groups

Barbado da Terceira Rescue Groups

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.

BarbadoUsa.com

BarbadoDaTerceira.com

How much does Barbado da Terceira Cost?

How much does Barbado da Terceira Cost?

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.

GoodDog.com

BarbadoDaTerceira.com

Interesting Facts

Interesting Facts

  • 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.
Best For

Best For

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

Best For- Families

Top Names

Top Names

Male Barbado da Terceira  Names Female Barbado da Terceira  Names
Zeus Stella
Titan Willow
Shadow Nova
Diesel Ruby
Rex Coco

Pet Ratings

Adaptability

For first-time pet owners, these dogs can be a fine choice, but not so much. If you are going to have a pet for the first time and have no prior experience with dogs, you should look for a dog with the best temperament. Also, prefer the dogs you know through a friend or acquaintance so they can help you if needed.

Friendliness

There are different types of friendliness. Some dogs may be friendly to humans but not to other dogs. Other dogs may be friendly to both humans and other dogs. The breed is not the only factor that determines how friendly a dog will be. Dogs who have spent time with their siblings and mother until they are six to eight weeks old and have played with other dogs a lot during puppyhood are more likely to be friendly to other dogs.

Health and Grooming Needs

Some breeds of dogs such as this one, are more likely to have certain health problems. This doesn't mean that every dog of that breed will have those diseases, but they are more likely to. If you're adopting a puppy, it's a good idea to find out which genetic illnesses are common to the breed.

Trainability

Dogs are one of the most popular pets in the world, and it's not hard to see why. They provide us with companionship, love, and security. But when it comes to training, some dog breeds are definitely easier to work with than others. This breed is known for being particularly easy to train.

Exercise Needs

This breed requires a lot of exercises. These dogs were originally bred for working roles that required them to be constantly active, and as a result, they have high energy levels. If you're considering this breed, it's important to make sure that you're able to provide it with the exercise it needs. A daily walk or run is often not enough - these dogs need to be able to burn off their excess energy to stay happy and healthy.

Key Takeaways

Barbado da Terceira as Family Pets: These dogs excel as loyal and versatile family companions, blending protective instincts with gentle companionship.

Physical Traits: Barbado da Terceira dogs exhibit striking physical features, including expressive eyes, medium-sized triangular ears, and a robust build.

Health Considerations: Barbado da Terceira dogs are very healthy dogs, with a low incidence of serious health issues.

Grooming and Care: Their long coats require regular grooming, including weekly brushing, along with regular nail trimming, dental care, and ear cleaning.

Versatility: These dogs thrive in various roles, including as guardians of the home, livestock herders, and working dogs in agricultural settings.

Training and Socialization: Early training is essential to ensure Barbado da Terceira dogs develop well-rounded behaviors.

What is the average Barbado da Terceira lifespan?

The average lifespan of a Barbado da Terceira ranges from 12 to 15 years. With proper care, nutrition, and regular veterinary check-ups, they can live long, healthy lives.

What is the temperament of the Barbado da Terceira?

Barbado da Terceira dogs are known for their loyalty, intelligence, and protective instincts. They are affectionate towards their families and make excellent watchdogs. With proper socialization and training, they can be gentle and well-behaved companions.

Are Barbado da Terceira hypoallergenic?

While no dog breed is entirely hypoallergenic, Barbado da Terceira dogs may be suitable for some allergy sufferers due to their low-shedding coat. However, individual reactions can vary, so it's essential to spend time with the breed before bringing one into your home if allergies are a concern. Regular grooming can also help reduce allergens.

Frequently Asked Questions

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