Estrela Mountain Dog
The Estrela Mountain Dog is described by the AKC as alert, intelligent, brave, originally from England.
Last updated: October 2026 · 5 sources · see sources
| Height | 24.5-29 inches [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 77-132 pounds [1] |
| Life expectancy | 10–14+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Alert / Intelligent / Brave [1] |
| AKC group | Foundation Stock Service [1] |
| Origin | England [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 209 of 202 [2] |
| AKC status | Foundation Stock Service (not yet fully recognized) [1] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
The Estrela is a relatively calm breed, but with children he knows and especially as a puppy, he can be quite playful. If not a working dog, options for exercise could include play time in the backyard, preferably fenced, or taken for daily walks. In inclement weather, indoor activities like chasing a ball rolled along the floor or teaching him new tricks can be good ways to expend energy. [1]
Grooming
The Estrela has a thick outer coat that resembles the texture of goat hair and comes in longhair and shorthair varieties. Beyond regular weekly grooming, the occasional bath will keep them clean and looking their best. Grooming can be a wonderful bonding experience for you and your pet. [1]
Health issues to budget for
Like all breeds there may be some health issues. Some dogs may be faced with these issues in their lives, but the majority of Estrela Mountain Dogs are healthy dogs.Working with a responsible breeder, those wishing to own an Estrela Mountain Dog can gain the education they need to know about specific health concerns within the breed. Good breeders utilize genetic testing of their breeding stock to reduce the likelihood of disease in their puppies [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a giant dog (median $607) | $350 – $1,373 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- The AKC lists the Estrela Mountain Dog in its Foundation Stock Service, a record-keeping program for breeds that are not yet fully AKC-recognized. [1]
- It ranked No. 209 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list. [2]
- The AKC lists England as the breed's country of origin. [1]
Good fit for
- ✅ Families with young children (AKC good-with-kids rating 5/5)
- ✅ First-time trainers who want an eager learner (AKC trainability 4/5)
- ⚠️ Think twice: Neat freaks: AKC rates drooling 4/5
Common questions
How long do Estrela Mountain Dogs live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 10-14 years.
How big does a Estrela Mountain Dog get?
AKC breed information lists height 24.5-29 inches and weight 77-132 pounds.
How much are vet bills for a Estrela Mountain Dog?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For giant dogs like the Estrela Mountain Dog, a typical vet bill runs $350 – $1,373 (median $607). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.