The Transmontano Mastiff is a livestock guardian dog that hails from Portugal. Also known as the Cao de Gado Transmontano, this very rare breed is seldom seen outside of its homeland but is invaluable for protecting flocks of sheep. The main foe of this molosser breed is the wolf, which is frequently seen in the area and is the main reason the flocks need protection. The vast majority of these dogs are still used as livestock guardians even today! As far as the breed’s lineage, some speculate that the Tibetan Mastiff played a part in its creation. There is no actual evidence of this however, although it is known that the Alentejo Mastiff is a definite ancestor. Although most Transmontanos reside overseas some members do live in the United States – in particular, Oregon. A select few were brought over in order to observe how well the dogs protect flocks from wolves and other predators in this country.
The Transmontano is a working breed through and through. He is completely dedicated and serious about his job and, as such, may or may not make a good pet. Prospective owners should have a thorough understanding of this breed’s temperament and needs before obtaining one, particularly in regards to the guarding nature. If a threat were to arise it would be dealt with calmly but matter-of-factly by the dog. These are not hot-headed dogs but they will react accordingly to any perceived dangers. The breed is very intelligent and will remain inquisitive and alert to all goings-on in their vicinity. For example, they won’t sleep through a package delivery. They’ll be there at the window or the door, ready and willing to act if they feel a threat has arisen!
The Transmontano Mastiff is very territorial and is likely to try and expand the territory which he feels must be guarded. This can result in the dog digging out under the fence frequently. A very, very secure fence is extremely important – it is not fair nor safe for a Transmontano to wander the neighborhood, potentially ready to defend the whole street from perceived dangers! These “dangers” could include people, pets or wild animals. Interestingly, in Portugal it is not unusual for a pack of Transmontanos to guard a large flock – including intact males and females. While strange dogs can be seen as instant foes, they are much more adaptable to living in a multi-dog household than other similar breeds. As well as digging under fences, Transmontano Mastiffs will also dig large craters just about anywhere. Making dens to escape the heat is a behavioral breed trait that most will due instinctively.
Transmontanos have a lot of energy due to their history of guarding flocks among many miles and over difficult terrain. In Portugal, they don’t really have “time off” and must be able to defend at any time whether day or night! Anyone keeping one as a companion must realize that they need a vast amount of space to roam in order to be happy. It can be very difficult to have one as a pet if it is not being used as a livestock guardian as this need (large amount of space plus a job) is hard to replicate otherwise. They will absolutely not work in an apartment setting, nor in any lifestyle that doesn’t allow plenty of free movement.
While it may seem otherwise, the Transmontano can actually make a good companion for those who are able to meet their extensive needs. It is said that females in particular can make better pets, and it is also said that they do better in households that only have one or two members rather than a large family. They can fit in very well for someone with a large property who would prefer an outside-only dog, as this breed doesn’t need to live indoors. They do still enjoy human company and attention, but can also bond to other dogs or livestock. They are generally calm and pleasant to be around, and are low-maintenance when it comes to grooming. Finally, as a breed they are rugged and healthy, not normally prone to extreme health issues, and able to live in any climate as long as common sense precautions are used.
As a breed that is naturally independent, the Transmontano Mastiff can (and should) be trained and socialized starting from an early age. This is a breed that tends toward being dominant, tends to be possessive of food, people and other items of value, and can hold a grudge when he feels he’s been treated unfairly. It is absolutely essential to gain and maintain control and to do it in a very firm, yet very fair way! He will not tolerate behavior which he feels is abusive, but likewise he will take advantage of an owner that doesn’t follow through with rules. For this reason the breed should only be owned by very experience owners that understand how to manage this type of temperament! For experienced owners that know what they are doing, they will find that this dog is in fact very trainable.
Photo By CARLOS