The Catalan Sheepdog
The Catalan Sheepdog looks similar to the Bearded Collie- they have a prominent beard and mustache and they are about the same size as the English Springer Spaniel. They were developed in the region of Catalonia in northeast Spain, two distinct forms arose, differing in coat length. The short-coated version, sometimes described as Gos d'Atura Cerda, is now very scarce. Traditionally, the ears of this sheepdog were cropped to make it appear to be more ferocious. These dogs acted as messengers and guard dogs in the Spanish Civil War.
Nothing certain has been recorded about the origins of the Catalan Sheepdog. The area in which the breed evolved has a strong French influence, and this suggests a possible relationship with French dog breeds.
These dogs should be 18-20 inches tall and weigh around 40 pounds. Their coat is long, flat, and rough. Thick undercoat. Full beard, mustache, forelock, and fall. Seasonal shedding occurs in two stages, beginning with the front half of the body, followed by the back half of the body. Color created by a mixture of hairs of various shades – fawn, reddish-brown, gray, black, and white. The base colors are fawn, gray, and sable.
The Catalan Sheepdog is courageous, intelligent, and energetic. His greatest traits shine through when herding; not only is he obedient to the commands of his handler, but he often takes the initiative, directing the sheep with remarkable ease. This brave, alert breed also makes an excellent guard dog. As a pet, he is loyal and gentle with children.
A very sedate dog, active and intelligent, with a noble expression, with a hardy and pleasant character, really devoted to the shepherd and the flocks entrusted to him, wary of strangers, which at times make him seem unsociable. He is very vigilant, very resistant to heat, cold and all atmospherics.
