Saint Miguel Cattle Dog (Cão Fila de São Miguel) — size comparison

The Saint Miguel Cattle Dog, or Cão Fila de São Miguel, is muscular, with a broad head, strong legs and short brindle hair. Stripes on darker or paler backgrounds give it a characteristic appearance. Its slightly elongated body combines strength with the ability to turn quickly. Medium-sized, it nevertheless conveys considerable power.

It comes from São Miguel in the Azores, where it helped move cattle. Local dogs are described from the early nineteenth century, and the first modern standard was drawn up in 1984. Work required decisive responses to large animals’ movement and keeping them heading correctly. They also guarded farms; the Portuguese cattle-dog term recalls this local tradition.

With familiar people it can be devoted and attentive to its handler’s signals. It usually assesses new people more cautiously, and an intruder may prompt a decisive response. Quick to learn and eager to act, it does not simply wait passively for instructions.

Measurement sources

• Wzorzec, wysokość i masa — FCI
• Wisdom Panel — profil rasy — długość życia