Portuguese Sheepdog
The Portuguese Sheepdog is described by the AKC as intelligent, devoted, lively, originally from Portugal.
Last updated: October 2026 · 5 sources · see sources
| Height | 16.5-21.5 inches [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 37.5-59 pounds [1] |
| Life expectancy | 12–13+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Intelligent / Devoted / Lively [1] |
| AKC group | Foundation Stock Service [1] |
| Origin | Portugal [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 226 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
Options for exercise include play time in the backyard, preferably fenced, or being taken for walks several times a day. Exercise can also come in the form of indoor activities, like hide-and-seek, chasing a ball rolled along the floor, or learning new tricks. Certain outdoor activities like swimming, hiking, and retrieving balls or flying discs can provide a good outlet for expending energy. [1]
Grooming
Beyond regular weekly grooming, the occasional bath will keep your Portuguese Sheepdog clean and looking his best. Grooming can be a wonderful bonding experience for you and your dog. The strong, fast-growing nails should be trimmed regularly with a nail clipper or grinder to avoid overgrowth, splitting, and cracking. [1]
Health issues to budget for
Some dogs may be faced with health challenges in their lives, but the majority of Portuguese Sheepdogs are healthy dogs. Working with aresponsible breeder, prospective owners can gain the education they need to learn about specific health concerns within the breed. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a medium dog (median $482) | $239 – $1,107 | [3] |
| Emergency visit, medium dog | $589 – $1,571 | [3] |
| Surgery when needed, medium dog | $264 – $2,106 | [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 Portuguese Sheepdog in its Foundation Stock Service, a record-keeping program for breeds that are not yet fully AKC-recognized. [1]
- It ranked No. 226 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list. [2]
- The AKC lists Portugal as the breed's country of origin. [1]
Good fit for
- ✅ Active owners who can give daily exercise (AKC energy 4/5)
- ✅ First-time trainers who want an eager learner (AKC trainability 5/5)
- ✅ People who want less dog hair at home (AKC shedding 2/5)
Common questions
How long do Portuguese Sheepdogs live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 12-13 years.
How big does a Portuguese Sheepdog get?
AKC breed information lists height 16.5-21.5 inches and weight 37.5-59 pounds.
How much are vet bills for a Portuguese Sheepdog?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For medium dogs like the Portuguese Sheepdog, a typical vet bill runs $239 – $1,107 (median $482). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.