Description
Hailing from the Andorra region of Spain, where it is known as the Gos d’Atura Catala, the Catalan Sheepdog was originally bred for herding and guarding the flocks. He has since found favour as a companion dog, where his loyalty to his family and his intelligence serves him well.
Like all the sheepdogs, the Catalan is lively and active but is relatively easy to train. Standing around 46–51 centimetres (18-20 inches) tall, he has a moderately long coat, which gives him some protection and requires regular grooming. He is not a bulky dog and this makes him a good size for the home. He is a natural guard and this shows in his devotion to owner and home, so sensible ownership is required. His energy and intelligence require activities to engage him and opportunity for regular exercise.
The Catalan is usually a shade of grey or fawn. The breed has a shorthaired variety but this is now very rarely seen and is thought to be almost extinct.
Breed Group
Pastoral
Vulnerable Native Breed
No
Size
Medium
How much exercise?
Up to 30 minutes per day
Length of coat
Medium
How much grooming?
Once a week
Supposedly sheds?*
No
Town or Country
Either
Type of home
Small or Large House
Minimum Garden Size
Small/Medium
Lifespan
Over 10 Years
* If you are asthmatic or have an allergy, you should consult your medical advisor before considering obtaining a dog. More information can also be found on
the Kennel Club website.
The Pastoral Breed Group
The Pastoral Group consists of herding dogs that are associated with working cattle, sheep, reindeer and other cloven footed animals.
Usually this type of dog has a weatherproof double coat to protect it from the elements when working in severe conditions. Breeds such as the Collie family, Old English Sheepdogs and Samoyeds who have been herding reindeer for centuries are but a few included in this group.