Barbado da Terceira: From Herding to Family Life
The Barbado da Terceira (BDT) is a fascinating and unique dog breed from the Azores, an archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean. This medium-sized herding breed has a muscular and athletic build, with a wiry and curly coat in various colors. Not only is the Barbado da Terceira an excellent herder, but they also make great companions and family dogs due to their intelligence, docile yet willful nature, joyfulness, and sensitivity.
In this article, we will dive deeper into the history, physical characteristics, temperament, care, and health of the Barbado da Terceira. Whether you are considering adding a BDT to your family or learning more about this fascinating breed, this article will provide all the information you need. Let’s explore the world of the Barbado da Terceira.
History
Originated from the Azores
The Barbado da Terceira is a unique dog breed from the Azores, an archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean. More specifically, the breed takes its name from the island of Terceira, one of the nine islands that make up the Azores. The Barbado da Terceira is considered an “island dog” because it originates on these remote islands.
The breed is thought to have evolved from a mixture of dogs brought from the continent for herding and guarding cattle and livestock. The BDT is believed to have descended from the dogs the Portuguese brought to the Azores when they discovered the islands in the 15th century. These dogs were primarily used for herding and guarding; the Barbado da Terceira breed developed over time.
Developed as a herding dog
The Barbado da Terceira’s herding abilities are attributed to its ancestors’ role as herding dogs. The breed was particularly adept at herding cattle, sheep, and goats in the rugged terrain of the Azores. Over time, the BDT became a crucial part of the Azores’ agricultural community, helping farmers to move and protect their livestock. The breed’s intelligence, athleticism, and loyalty made it well-suited for this task and it quickly became a beloved companion and working dog.
The Barbado da Terceira has a rich history that can be traced back to the Azores, where the breed’s ancestors were brought from the continent to work as herding and guarding dogs. The breed’s unique traits and abilities made it an essential part of the Azores’ agricultural community, and it continues to be a beloved companion and working dog to this day.
In 2018, the first two BDTs were brought to Maryland, U.S.A., from Terceira Island and the mainland of Portugal. They were included in the American Kennel Club (AKC) Foundation Stock Service in 2021. The AKC parent club for the breed is the Barbado da Terceira Club of the United States.
Physical Characteristics
Size
The Barbado da Terceira is a medium-sized dog breed with a muscular and athletic build. Males typically stand 19 to 21 inches at the shoulder and weigh between 55 and 75 pounds. Females are slightly smaller, standing 17 to 19 inches at the shoulder and weighing between 45 and 65 pounds. Despite their size, Barbados da Terceiras are known for their athleticism and endurance, making them well-suited for herding and other physical activities.
Colors
The BDThas a unique coat that is typically wiry and curly, which helps protect it from the elements while working in the rugged terrain of the Azores. The coat can come in various colors: black, brown, fawn, and brindle. This breed’s coat requires regular grooming to maintain its wiry texture and to prevent matting and tangling.
Temperament and Personality
Intelligent and easy to train
Due to their intelligence, Barbado da Terceiras are quick learners and enjoy being given tasks to complete. This breed is well-suited for obedience training and thrives on mental stimulation. Barbado da Terceiras is also known for being sensitive, which means they can become stressed or anxious if left alone for long periods. They require plenty of socialization and attention to thrive as family pets.
Good Family Pet
The Barbado da Terceira is known for its unique temperament and personality, which make it both an excellent herding dog and a great companion and family dog. This breed is intelligent, which makes it easy to train, but it is also known for being docile yet willful. The Barbado da Terceira is joyful and sensitive and thrives on affection and attention from its owners.
Despite their sensitivity, Barbado da Terceiras is also known for being joyful and playful. They have a good sense of humor and enjoy playing with their owners, especially if it involves physical activity. This breed is also very loyal and bonds closely with its owners. They are great with children and families and make excellent watchdogs due to their protective instincts.
Is the Barbado da Terceira hypoallergenic? Barbados does not shed, and its hair should be trimmed when it gets too long. Since it does not shed, it may suit people allergic to dogs.
Care and Health
Health Concerns
The Barbado da Terceira is generally a healthy breed, but like all dogs, they may be prone to specific health issues. One common health concern for this breed is hip dysplasia, where the hip joint doesn’t develop correctly and can lead to pain and mobility issues. Having your Barbado da Terceira screened for hip dysplasia by a veterinarian before breeding or participating in high-impact activities like agility or herding is important.
In addition to hip dysplasia, the Barbado da Terceira may also be prone to other health issues like eye problems, skin allergies, and ear infections. Regular check-ups with a veterinarian can help catch these issues early and prevent them from becoming more serious. Maintaining a healthy diet and exercise regimen for your Barbado da Terceira is also essential to help prevent obesity, which can lead to various health problems.
The Barbado da Terceira average lifespan is 12-14 years.
Grooming
The Barbado da Terceira has a unique coat that is wiry and curly, which helps protect it from the elements while working in the rugged terrain of the Azores. This breed’s coat requires regular grooming to maintain its wiry texture and to prevent matting and tangling. The coat should be brushed regularly and bathed only as needed. Additionally, trimming their nails regularly will help avoid overgrowth and discomfort. It is also important to periodically check and clean Barbado da Terceira’s ears to prevent infection.
Where to Get One
You can buy a Barbado da Terceira dog from breeders listed on the AKC PuppyFinder marketplace. The prices of Barbado da Terceira puppies may vary depending on the breeder, location, and other factors. It is recommended to contact the breeders directly to inquire about the price of the puppies. To message breeders and set alerts for your searches, you will need to sign in to your account on the AKC PuppyFinder website.
Conclusion
The Barbado da Terceira is a unique and wonderful dog breed with a rich history and traits, making it an excellent herding dog and a great companion and family pet. This medium-sized breed is known for its muscular and athletic build, wiry and curly coat that comes in various colors, and unique temperament, including intelligence, sensitivity, joyfulness, and loyalty.
Despite its sensitivity, the Barbado da Terceira is a highly trainable breed that enjoys being given tasks to complete and requires plenty of mental and physical stimulation to stay healthy and happy. Regular grooming, including brushing, bathing, and ear cleaning, is essential to keep this breed’s unique coat healthy and prevent matting and tangling.
While the Barbado da Terceira may be prone to specific health issues like hip dysplasia, regular check-ups with a veterinarian and maintaining a healthy diet and exercise regimen can help prevent these issues.
The Barbado da Terceira is a wonderful breed that makes an excellent addition to any household willing to provide the proper care, attention, and love. With its unique history, personality, and physical traits, this breed is truly one-of-a-kind and will bring years of joy and companionship to its owners.
