Bulgarian Shepherd vs Cao de Fila da Terceira - Breed Comparison

Cao de Fila da Terceira is originated from Portugal but Bulgarian Shepherd is originated from Bulgaria. Cao de Fila da Terceira may grow 18 cm / 7 inches shorter than Bulgarian Shepherd. Cao de Fila da Terceira may weigh 23 kg / 51 pounds more than Bulgarian Shepherd. Cao de Fila da Terceira may live 45 years less than Bulgarian Shepherd. Both Cao de Fila da Terceira and Bulgarian Shepherd has almost same litter size. Cao de Fila da Terceira requires Low Maintenance. But Bulgarian Shepherd requires Moderate Maintenance

Basic Information

Group:
Molosser dogs
Working dog
undefined
Portugal
Bulgaria
Height Male:
53 - 57 cm
20 - 23 inches
65 - 75 cm
25 - 30 inches
Height Female:
53 - 57 cm
20 - 23 inches
63 - 72 cm
24 - 29 inches
Weight Male:
70 - 80 kg
154 - 177 pounds
45 - 57 kg
99 - 126 pounds
Weight Female:
67 - 80 kg
147 - 177 pounds
40 - 52 kg
88 - 115 pounds
Life Span:
10 - 12 Years
45 - 57 Years
Litter Size:
3 - 8
5 - 10
Size:
Large
Large
Other Names:
Rabo Torto
Karakachan Shepherd Dog, Karakachan
Colors Available:
Fawn, yellow, brindle, red or black
BlackWhiteTricolor
Coat:
Short and dense
Single
Shedding:
Moderate
Moderate
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Territorial
Alert, Courageous, Independent, Intelligent, Loyal, Protective, Territorial
Grooming:
Low Maintenance
Moderate Maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Moderate
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

History

The Cao de Fila da Terceira Mastiff hails from Portugal and is also known as the Rabo Torto.The dog actually comes from the isle of Terceira in the Azores. The dog descends from mastiffs, bulldogs and local dogs.

It was in the 1960s that there was an attempt to revive the dwindling numbers of the breed. The dog was declared extinct in the 1970s but there were some people in the Azores who wanted to see the breed restored, and it remains a mystery as to if the dog is in fact still available. The breed isn’t recognized by kennel clubs.

bulgarian shepherdThe Bulgarian Shepard Dog comes from the ancient line of Molossers of Central Asia and Tibet, and the shepherds of the Balkans, Turkey and Caucasus. Among the oldest and most valued of the working dogs of Europe, the Bulgarian Shepherd breed was created by mixing the Balkan breeds with the dogs from Central Asia by the proto-Bulgarians around the 7th century. The Karakachanskoto Kuche was introduced to Bulgaria and accepted by the sheep herders. Mixing this breed in with the Balkan and Central Asian mix developed the Bulgarian Shepherd we know today. In the long run the original Karakachanskoto Kuche became extinct, replaced entirely by the Bulgarian Shepherd even in places where the new breed is still called by the Kuche name. Although the breeds are not the same, most of the dog world does not know the difference.

In Bulgaria however the Karakachan is a national treasure and the history of the breed runs deep. One Kuche could run up to 1200 animals and hundreds were used by the herdsmen in the mountains of Bulgaria. There were many regional types of Bulgarian Shepherds with very little difference between those types. These dogs were so prized by the shepherds that the dogs ate first before the people. The dogs however ate a vegetarian diet of milk, wheat, water and oats. The Bulgarian Shepherd lives a long life of often over 20 years. The Bulgarian Army made good use of these dogs early in the 20th century.

Following World War II, the wolves were close to extinction and property in Bulgaria was nationalized. There was no longer a need for a large force of working dogs. The Communist government exterminated large numbers of sheep dogs including the Bulgarian Shepherd. Only those species on government owned farms and in remote regions survived. When the government farms were disbanded in the early 20th century, these dogs were exterminated as well. Only those in the mountains survived. Commercial breeding of the Bulgarian Shepherd in the end of the century has resulted in controversy as other breeds came into the breeding program.

Use of breeds such as Sarplaninacs, Caucasian Ovcharkas, St. Bernards, Central Asian Ovcharkas and Bosnian Tornjaks in these programs resulted in Bulgarian Shepherd or Karakachans that were a lot different from the original breed. There is therefore some concern about the future of the breed in Bulgaria, yet they received official Bulgarian national recognition in 2000. Today’s Bulgarian Shepherd is a guard dog for both property and livestock.

The official standard for the breed came about in 1991 and in 2005 it was recognized by the Bulgarian State Commission for Animal Breeds. Only those dogs that meet this standard are considered “true” Karakachans. The Bulgarian Shepherds are willing to fight bears and wolves in defense of its family and flock. The dog is brave and loyal, dignified and powerful. They are recognized by both the Dog Registry of America, Inc. (DRA) and the Bulgarian Republican Federation of Cynology (BRFC) a member of the FCI.

Description

The Cao de Fila da Terceira is a medium sized molosser, recognized by his weird tail – short and twirled. In fact, the dog’s other name, Rabo Torto, actually stands for ‘twisted tail’, which is a trademark of this dog and which is thought to come from the mix of bulldog in him.

The dog’s coat is short and smooth and the color is usually fawn or yellow while other colors such as brindle, red or black are also available but less acceptable. You may also find small white markings on the chest and feet.

Standing at about 55cm, the dog is muscular and powerful with a broad head, medium sized floppy ears, wide chest and strong muzzle.

The Cao de Fila da Terceira is a good guard dog and while he doesn’t like strangers, he is a dog who is loving and devoted with his human family. See that he gets socialized and trained and he is capable of establishing a deep relationship with all members of the family, children and other pets included. He relies on his owners to provide him with warmth and communication.

bulgarian shepherd puppy - descriptionA massive, powerful and muscular Molosser, the Bulgarian Shepherd is strong, agile, powerful and fast. They are intelligent and reliable. They have a long, thick, harsh coat in white with patches of black. Their skull is massive and broad with a furrowed forehead. The muzzle is massive as well while the nose has wide nostrils and is fairly large. It has close fitting, thick lips with strong, scissor bite jaws. The Bulgarian Shepherd’s eyes are deep, oblique and small. They are either hazel or dark. They have an intelligent and confident, yet firm almost grim expression.

Their ears are low set, small and v-shaped. They sit close to the head which sits on a powerful but short neck. They have a broad back, well-muscled body with a deep chest and long, rough tail. Their gait is a trot with a spring in their step. There are two types of coats – longhaired and shorthaired with no undercoats.

Characteristics

If only dog owners would realize that when it comes to a dog’s characteristics, that while there are some traits inherent in a dog, essentially it’s a case of you reap what you sow with a dog. Treat your dog badly, ignore him and abuse him and you get an aggressive, volatile dog who is a threat to the very humans who created the monster in him.

The Cão de Fila da Terceira will certainly need excellent training and socialization, and when he receives plenty of loving attention from his human family he becomes an amazing, relaxed pet. He becomes patient and sweet-tempered so that you can ultimately call him guardian and friend.

bulgarian shepherd dog - characteristicsThis is a working dog, intelligent and independent guard dog. Reserved around strangers but loyal and devoted with his family. Tolerant of children in their family if they were raised with them. Not only will she defend human family members, she will guard and defend household pets as well. He is quite capable of making her own independent decisions. These are very intense guard dogs that will respond aggressively if they think their people are being attacked.

Health Problems

The Cão de Fila da Terceira is a healthy dog breed, but even so, you need to be looking out for some ailments which can threaten the comfort and wellbeing of any dog.

Constipation:

This can often be brought about by the wrong diet. When you see your pet battling to clear out the bowels, it can often be rectified by altering your dog’s diet. Speak to your vet if it continues. Your vet may suggest adding some form of nutritious oil to your pet’s diet.

Heart Problems:

Dogs can also suffer from heart disease, especially when there is an obstruction to the flow of blood to the brain which can cause your pet to collapse. Veterinary attention must be sought without delay.

Kidney Failure:

Frequent passing of water can be indicative of a kidney problem. Veterinary advice will be needed.

bulgarian shepherd puppies - health problemsThe breed itself is known to be healthy but they do face some of the usual health issues of the massive, giant breeds. This includes knee and elbow dislocation; hip dysplasia; bloat; entropion and osteosarcoma. All of these conditions require medical intervention, but bloat and osteosarcoma are the deadliest. Bloat needs immediate attention and osteosarcoma is a deadly bone cancer.

Caring The Pet

Companionship is important for the Cao de Fila da Terceira, and if you don’t have another dog in the home, as a pack animal, your dog will rely on you for being an active part of his life. A dog that is well treated becomes thoroughly loyal to his owner.

Diet:

A balanced diet is important for health and for a shiny coat. If you’re unsure of how to feed your Terceira, speak to your veterinarian first. Your vet will know that protein for instance, is essential for your dog. The vet will also speak to you about how to feed a puppy, an adult dog, a pregnant female dog and also feeding your senior dog. Your vet will also explain the hazards of overfeeding and how raw meat also needs to be included in your pet’s diet.

Fresh, cool water is your pet’s life-blood and should be available to your dog night and day. Every dog can benefit too from taking a daily supplement rich in omega-3 fatty acid.

Grooming:

The grooming of your pet will depend on the breed. The Cão de Fila da Terceira has a short coat so he will be easy to maintain. Brush him twice a week to remove loose hairs.

Areas which also need checking daily are the eyes to see that there is no discharge. It is also important to inspect the ears as there should be no build-up of wax inside the ear. Toenails also need attention and should be clipped if they grow long from the pet not walking on hard surfaces.

Feeding

bulgarian shepherd dogs - caringThese are large dogs with large appetites, but you want to keep them lean and active. Feed them at least twice a day with a high quality large or giant dog dry food. Four to five cups of food per day is the maximum.

Health issues

Patellar Luxation – a floating kneecap or dislocated knee. Will cause lameness.

Bloat - distended or twisted stomach. Can cause death.

Osteosarcoma – bone cancer must be treated immediately as it is potentially fatal.

Entropion – eye issues when the eyelid turns inward and damages the eye.

Hip Dysplasia – May cause lameness and arthritis.

Exercise and games

The Bulgarian Shepherd needs a good amount of exercise every day. Remember this is a working breed and they need a job. Long walks every day are essential for his well-being.

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Cao de Fila da Terceira vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  2. Cao de Fila da Terceira vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  3. Cao de Fila da Terceira vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  4. Cao de Fila da Terceira vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  5. Cao de Fila da Terceira vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  6. Cao de Fila da Terceira vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  7. Cao de Fila da Terceira vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  8. Cao de Fila da Terceira vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  9. Cao de Fila da Terceira vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  10. Cao de Fila da Terceira vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  11. Cao de Fila da Terceira vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  12. Cao de Fila da Terceira vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  13. Cao de Fila da Terceira vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  14. Cao de Fila da Terceira vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  15. Cao de Fila da Terceira vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  16. Cao de Fila da Terceira vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  17. Cao de Fila da Terceira vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  18. Cao de Fila da Terceira vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  19. Cao de Fila da Terceira vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  20. Cao de Fila da Terceira vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  21. Cao de Fila da Terceira vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  22. Cao de Fila da Terceira vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  23. Cao de Fila da Terceira vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  24. Cao de Fila da Terceira vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  25. Cao de Fila da Terceira vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  26. Bulgarian Shepherd vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  27. Bulgarian Shepherd vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  28. Bulgarian Shepherd vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  29. Bulgarian Shepherd vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  30. Bulgarian Shepherd vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  31. Bulgarian Shepherd vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  32. Bulgarian Shepherd vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  33. Bulgarian Shepherd vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  34. Bulgarian Shepherd vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  35. Bulgarian Shepherd vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  36. Bulgarian Shepherd vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  37. Bulgarian Shepherd vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  38. Bulgarian Shepherd vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  39. Bulgarian Shepherd vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  40. Bulgarian Shepherd vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  41. Bulgarian Shepherd vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  42. Bulgarian Shepherd vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  43. Bulgarian Shepherd vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  44. Bulgarian Shepherd vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  45. Bulgarian Shepherd vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  46. Bulgarian Shepherd vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  47. Bulgarian Shepherd vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  48. Bulgarian Shepherd vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  49. Bulgarian Shepherd vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  50. Bulgarian Shepherd vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison