Dog Breeds 101: Catalan Sheepdog

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The lively and active Catalan Sheepdog was originally bred to be a flock herder and guardian. Hailing from the Andorra region of Spain, this dog is relatively easy to train. Due to its history of being a guard dog, the Catalan Sheepdog is extremely devoted to its family. [1]

The Romans were the ones who introduced the breed to the Iberian Peninsula around 200 to 100 BC when they marched across the lands. It was the dogs’ job to protect the flocks of livestock and to herd cattle. These dogs mated with the local dogs and produced the Catalan Sheepdogs. They soon became popular throughout Spain thanks to their kind, loyal and courageous temperament. The dogs served in the Spanish Civil War as messengers and sentries. However, the breed’s numbers significantly declined after World War II. In the 1970s, fans of the breed started to take steps in saving the dogs from extinction. They still have a long way to go because the Catalan Sheepdog is still one of the rarest breeds today. [2]

These dogs can grow up to 21 inches tall. Males weigh in the range of 48 to 55 pounds and females between 37 to 46 pounds. They have long coats which need extensive grooming. This is not a muscular breed and should be treated with extreme care as a strong force can easily break its bones. [3]

Catalan Sheepdogs are known to be very lively, energetic and fun-loving. They are quick to learn new things which means they excel at many canine sports. Much like other sheepdogs, they do tend to become protective of their families. They can also be a little wary and aloof around people they don’t know but rarely would a Catalan show any sort of aggressive behavior to strangers preferring to keep their distance until they get to know them. [2]