BASQUE SHEPHERD

Temperament: Friendly, Sociable, Calm
Height:  18-24 inches
Weight: 37 to 80 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years

MORE ABOUT THIS BREED

Originating from the Basque country in northern Spain, the Basque Shepherd Dog, or Perro de Pastor Vasco, is a rare and unique breed. Originally utilized by Spanish shepherds to help tend their flocks of sheep and cattle, these are working dogs that also possess the ability to adapt well to modern family life and are renowned for being particularly understanding with young children.

Medium-sized, with a typically golden coat, the Basque Shepherd Dog is unquestionably intelligent and high energy to the point that some may call them ‘hyper’. These dogs require a firm and experienced owner who will be able to get the best out of them. With incredibly high exercise tolerance, they flourish when provided with an active, outdoor lifestyle.

PERSONALITY

The Basque Shepherd Dog is the quintessential family dog. These dogs are full of energy but they are also people-oriented. This breed loves to spend time with family and, though they can be a little territorial, they would never hurt anyone. This breed gets along well with children but may require early socialization and training to get along with cats and other household pets.

FEEDING

As a medium to large-breed dog, the Basque Shepherd Dog should be fed a high-quality dry food formulated for medium or large breeds.
This dog is also a herding breed, so he may respond well to an active or working breed formula. You still need to be careful about overfeeding, however, to prevent obesity.

HEALTH

As an ancient breed, the Basque Shepherd Dog is relatively unbothered by genetic health problems. Like all dogs, however, the Basque Shepherd Dog is prone to certain conditions such as hip dysplasia, cancer, eye problems, ear infections, and heart defects. They may also be prone to bloat as a larger breed.

CARE

Taking good care of the dogs is very important for raising Basque Shepherd dog. As a herding breed, the Basque Shepherd dogs are highly active and energetic. They require a long daily walk as well as plenty of outdoor space to run.
Without adequate daily exercise not only can this breed become overweight, but he is also likely to develop destructive behaviors out of boredom.

GROOMING

Their medium-length, wavy coat requires moderate grooming. A quick daily brush will be adequate. Frequent bathing is not advised as it can cause the dog’s natural oils to dry out, resulting in a poor-quality coat.
Teeth should be brushed daily, and this is an activity, which ought to be introduced when the dog is young, increasing the likelihood that they will accept it.
Their ears should be kept clean, and particular attention should be paid to those of the breed with pendulous ears, as these are more prone to becoming waxy and infected.

Source: petguide, dogzone, roysfarm.