Havapoo vs Cao de Castro Laboreiro - Breed Comparison

The Havapoo is usually a cross with a miniature Poodle and a Havanese but other poodle sizes such as the toy can be used. This is a fairly new cross breed just getting the attention of the American public. The result is a friendly, small dog. They have a striking appearance and lovable personality. They are easy to train and very smart. Not much is know about their heritage except that they were developed in the United States sometime in the past 30 years. Given the long history of the parental breeds, you can count on the quality and beauty of the Havapoo.

Cão de Castro Laboreiro originates from Portugal. Also known as the Portuguese Cattle Dog he was used long ago to guard livestock. Today, the modern Cao de Castro Laboreiro is descended from the molosser type dog.

There are hints to the dog's origins from the 19th century, but changes in agricultural methods meant a disappearance of the dog as a livestock protector. Today the dog is mostly kept as a pet and was first seen at a dog show in 1914.

The Cão de Castro Laboreiro is recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale as well as being recognized by the United Kennel Club in the United States.It is a rare dog and not many exist today but in Portugal, the USA and United Kingdom you will find a few breeders.

The look of the Havapoo is unpredictable in first generation mixes as the puppies can appear like either of the parents. Most however have carried on the facial features of the Havanese. They usually have soft coats with hypoallergenic fur that comes in brown, black, grey, white and tan. The white dogs tend to be deaf or perhaps even blind. They are really good looking dogs whichever parent they favor.

The Cão de Castro Laboreiro is a large dog, with height being in the region of 55 to 60cm and weight being in the region of 45 - 70kg. People describe the dog as wolf-like with a coat that is fairly short, thick and course. The coat is brindle with a base color of shades of grey, chestnut and black.

This large mastiff-type dog always has a black nose, his tail is long and carried high, but never curling over the back. He has a broad head and is much like the Labrador in looks, being free of wrinkles on the face.The ears of the Cao de Castro Laboreiro are medium-in-size and floppy while the eyes are dark brown.

Temperament:

The Cao de Castro Laboreiro makes an excellent pet as he forms strong bonds with his human family. He is territorial and makes an exceptional guard dog. He doesn’t particularly like strangers and is aloof around them.

This is an intelligent dog breed, he is strong-willed and stubborn, but when he is around the children in the family he is gentle and loving. When he has been trained and socialized, which is always highly recommended with every dog, he gets along with other pets in the home too.

1Children friendliness yes but monitor their interaction so the dog does not get hurt. 2.Special talents highly intelligent and love to run 3.Adaptability Home or apartment is fine but would love a fenced yard to run in. 4.Learning ability very high smart and loves to learn

Environment and upbringing have plenty to do with how a dog turns out. People who just buy a dog for guardian purposes and nothing else can’t expect companionship in return.

The Cão de Castro Laboreiro has always been a fearless guardian of livestock with his strong protective characteristics. He is intelligent and recognizes that a child in the family needs his protection.

This is a large dog who is strong, brave and intelligent but with his human family he is gentle, loving and loyal. Nonetheless he still requires a firm owner, and if you’re fair and firm with him you get the best with him. With this dog you can form a close friendship and bond.

Even though first generation mixes have no genetic health issues. There are however some issues they are prone to: • Deafness - primarily in the white dogs, nothing can be done for it. • Cataracts – can lead to blindness • Hypothyroidism – can be medicated • Hip Dysplasia – can lead to lameness • Patellar Luxation – can lead to lameness

The Cão de Castro Laboreiro is generally a healthy breed, but even so, it is good to be aware of typical canine diseases that your pet may develop.

Eye Problems:

There are many eye problems that dogs have to contend with and if you see any kind of ulceration in your dogs eye, get veterinary advice.

Heat- Stroke:

A dog should always have access to a shady spot. Never ever leave your dog in a hot car. Heat builds up quickly and death can result soon as the body temperature rises.

Parasites:

Roundworm and tapeworm can infest dogs and you’ll need to speak to your vet about a worming program. Lice, mites and ticks are all parasites which attach themselves to the skin.

1Feeding the puppy – feed a high quality puppy food for small or toy dogs. Feed 3-4 times a day a total or 1 cup. 2.Feeding the adult - feed a high quality puppy food for small or toy dogs. Feed 3-4 times a day a total of 2 cups 3.Points for Good Health – overall good health 4. Games and Exercises – needs some moderate exercise and would love a fenced yard to run in. Will play fetch and some are good at agility.

Grooming:

The Cao de Castro Laboreiro has a short coat which requires minimal grooming. Brushing him twice a week to rid him of loose hairs will suffice.

Nail clipping as well as ear- and teeth cleaning are other routine maintenance procedures for your pet.

Diet:

The food you give your pet must be well-balanced and have protein and carbohydrates. If you want his skin and hair to remain healthy, vitamins, fatty acids and minerals will also be needed.

Boneless chicken and fish, brown rice and vegetables can be a good choice as well as some of the top quality commercially manufactured foods. An active dog will always need a higher protein content and therefore including raw meat into the diet is imperative – not every day as it can be very expensive, but every other day.

Remember that bones can be dangerous as they can splinter and cause your pet internal damage. Fresh, cool water must be available at all times.