Saint Miguel Cattle Dog
Also known as Cão Fila de São Miguel · Fila de Saint Miguel · Cao Fila de Sao Miguel · Fila de San Miguel
Portugal, Molossian type
- Size
- Large
- Height
- 48–60 cm
- Weight
- 20–35 kg
- Life expectancy
- 11–14 yrs
- Alert
- Confident
- Protective
- Strong
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Saint Miguel Cattle Dog
The Saint Miguel Cattle Dog, or Cão Fila de São Miguel, comes from the Azores island of São Miguel in Portugal, where it was used to herd and guard cattle. It is a medium to large, muscular mastiff-type dog with a short coat, commonly brindle or fawn. It is strong, agile and alert, and often wary of strangers.
Temperament
Typically alert, confident and loyal to its family, with a protective streak. Wary of strangers, with an instinct for guarding and working cattle. Needs early socialisation and firm but fair training.
Exercise
Needs at least an hour of daily exercise and enjoys having a job. Keep play gentle while it is still growing.
Grooming
The short coat takes a weekly brush. Wipe the loose lips and check the nails now and then, and handle puppies often so grooming is easy later.
Care & wellbeing
Strong dogs need secure fencing and training from an early age.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 27.5 kg adult- Water
- 1.1 L–1.7 L
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 1,350 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 90–120 min
- a day
- Grooming
- An occasional brush is plenty
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Saint Miguel Cattle Dog
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
A cattle dog from the Azores island of Sao Miguel, used by farmers to herd and guard cattle. Strong and protective, it has a long history as a working farm dog and is now a recognised Portuguese breed.
Health
The breed can be prone to
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Hip and elbow scores
Not every Saint Miguel Cattle Dog is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
Higher than average- Food, insurance and medicines cost more for a big dog
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 11–14 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Saint Miguel Cattle Dog right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
- You need a dog you can easily lift or carry
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Saint Miguel Cattle Dog get?
Adult Saint Miguel Cattle Dogs typically stand about 48–60 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 20–35 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Saint Miguel Cattle Dogs live?
Typically 11–14 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Saint Miguel Cattle Dog need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Saint Miguel Cattle Dog need?
An occasional brush is plenty. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Saint Miguel Cattle Dogs easy to train?
Generally trainable with consistent, reward-based practice.
Do Saint Miguel Cattle Dogs shed?
A moderate amount. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Saint Miguel Cattle Dogs good with children?
Many get on well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Saint Miguel Cattle Dog live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Saint Miguel Cattle Dogs have?
The breed can be prone to hip dysplasia. Not every Saint Miguel Cattle Dog is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- Portugal
- Type
- Molossian type
- Internationally recognised
- 2007