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Terceira Mastiff Information & Dog Breed Facts

Collection of all the general dog breed info about Terceira Mastiff so you can get to know the breed more.

Group Hunting Dogs
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OriginPortugal flagPortugal
Common Names & Aliases
What other names is a Terceira Mastiff known by? Discover all traditional, regional and informal names used for this breed.
Cao de Fila da TerceiraRabo TortoFila da Terceira
Breed Classification
What type of dog breed is a Terceira Mastiff? Learn about its genetic classification and breeding category.
Purebred

Terceira Mastiff Size and Weight

Size Classification
What size category is a Terceira Mastiff? Learn how big the Terceira Mastiff breed typically grows.
Large
Weight Statistics
How much does a Terceira Mastiff weigh? Discover typical weight ranges for adult males and females of the Terceira Mastiff breed.
Male: 80-90 pounds (36-41 kg), Female: 65-75 pounds (29-34 kg)
Average Weight
What is the average weight of a Terceira Mastiff?
Male: 85 pounds (38.5 kg), Female: 70 pounds (31.5 kg)
Height
How tall is the Terceira Mastiff? Terceira Mastiff height:
Male: 20-22 inches (51-56 cm), Female: 18-20 inches (46-51 cm)
Average Height
What is the average height of a Terceira Mastiff?
Male: 21 inches (53.5 cm), Female: 18.5 inches (47.5 cm)

Terceira Mastiff Price and Availability

Price Range
How much does a Terceira Mastiff puppy cost? Find current market prices and factors affecting Terceira Mastiff costs.
Unknown
Unfortunately, we couldn't find the price of the Terceira Mastiff. If you have a Terceira Mastiff for sale, please advertise it on a reliable website to make sure the Terceira Mastiff gets to a happy place.
Availability
How easy is it to get a Terceira Mastiff? How many Terceira Mastiff are there in the world?
Average: The Terceira Mastiff is a commonly available dog breed. There is less risk of overbreeding compared to the very popular dogs.

Of course, they may be more popular in some countries, and inbreeding may occur, so be careful.

Terceira Mastiff Trainability and Intelligence

Intelligence Rating
How intelligent is a Terceira Mastiff? Discover the Terceira Mastiff's intelligence ranking and learning capabilities.
Average: It takes patience to teach this breed any tricks or commands, but the effort is worth it. They understand and remember new commands after an average of 25-40 repetitions.

The Terceira Mastiff ranks average in the intelligence ranking of dogs.

Training Difficulty
How easy is it to train a Terceira Mastiff? Learn about the Terceira Mastiff's trainability and response to training methods.
Terceira Mastiff dogs are quite easy to train. Sometimes they can be challenging, but if you're consistent in teaching new commands they will obey for sure.
Watchdog Rating
How good is a Terceira Mastiff as a watchdog? Learn about the Terceira Mastiff's alertness and guarding instincts.
Terceira Mastiff dogs are one of the best watchdogs. Their main job is to observe and they're very consistent in their effort. The best vocal cords and sense of hearing belong to them. Usually, they're very territorial and protective about their property, so the Terceira Mastiff dogs will alert you if they sense something different.
Territorial Protection
Is a Terceira Mastiff protective of its territory? Learn about the Terceira Mastiff's guarding instincts and behavior.
Terceira Mastiff dogs are extremely protective guard dogs. This breed doesn't hesitate to protect its territory so the Terceira Mastiff can be a good choice if you want an excellent guard dog. Keep calm and the Terceira Mastiff will take care of unwanted people or animals.

Terceira Mastiff Personality and Temperament

Personality Traits
What personality does a Terceira Mastiff have? Learn about characteristic Terceira Mastiff temperament and behavior traits.
ProtectiveCalm
Sensitivity Level
How sensitive are they? Terceira Mastiff sensitivity:
They are a little bit more sensitive than other dog breeds. Soft punishment affects them emotionally. Terceira Mastiff dogs don't tolerate irregular daily routines, noisy households, and frequent guest visits really well.

They are receptive to their owner's emotions and make wonderful family companions.

Affection Level
How affectionate are they? Is a Terceira Mastiff a good family dog?
High: Terceira Mastiff dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers. They enjoy quality time with their owners despite the activity and are considered great therapy dogs for those in need. This breed responds strongly to their handler's emotions because they bond closely. Their happiness is your happiness.
Social Needs
How much social interaction does the Cao de Fila da Terceira need? Terceira Mastiff social needs:
Terceira Mastiff dogs need for social interaction is average. This breed likes being around people or other animals, but they don't mind being left alone for a few hours either.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
How likely is the Terceira Mastiff to run away? Does this breed explore or wander a lot? Does Terceira Mastiff roam?
Terceira Mastiff dogs have average wanderlust potential. Sometimes they like to explore the world and they might escape once or twice, but usually, they prefer staying safely at home. Safer to teach them how to get back to you on command.
Prey Drive
Do this canine have a strong prey drive? Does Terceira Mastiff have high prey drive?
Terceira Mastiff dogs have a high impulse to chase and catch something. Cats or any other small animals are in danger. It's a natural instinct, doesn't necessarily mean that Terceira Mastiff dogs are aggressive. Better to keep this breed on a leash.

Terceira Mastiff Activity and Playfulness

Barking Frequency
Does a Terceira Mastiff bark a lot? Learn about typical Terceira Mastiff vocalization patterns and triggers.
Low: The Terceira Mastiff barks none to minimal. Perfect choice if you prefer a quiet breed.

Top reasons for barking: protection, alarm, fear, boredom, attention-seeking, greeting, separation anxiety, compulsive barking.

Playful Nature
How playful is a Terceira Mastiff? Understand the typical play drive and energy level of the Terceira Mastiff breed.
Terceira Mastiffs are not the most playful dog breed. Sometimes they do like playing, but that's not their favorite activity.
Apartment Adaptability
Can a Terceira Mastiff live in an apartment? Learn about the Terceira Mastiff's suitability for apartment living.
It is not the best choice if you want to keep them indoors, however, with careful exercise and several walks a day, they will tolerate the indoor environment, so it is possible to keep Terceira Mastiff indoors.

Terceira Mastiff Adaptability and Independence

Lifestyle Adaptability
How adaptable is a Terceira Mastiff to lifestyle changes? Learn about the Terceira Mastiff's flexibility to new situations.
Terceira Mastiff dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments. They don't mind moving from one place to another with their owner.
Alone Time Tolerance
Can a Terceira Mastiff be left alone? Learn about the Terceira Mastiff's tolerance to solitude.
Just like every puppy, they are prone to panic, cry, bark, whine when they left alone by their owner. With proper socialization and quality time with the dog can solve this problem.

Terceira Mastiff Bite Characteristics

Bite Risk Assessment
What is a Terceira Mastiff biting potential? Learn about the Terceira Mastiff's bite risk factors.

Low 🔽

The Terceira Mastiff has a low chance of biting somebody. Top reasons for dog bite: protection, pain, excitement, herding instinct, being provoked. (Data based on the available online bite statistics.)
Mouthing Tendency
Is a Terceira Mastiff mouthy? Learn about the Terceira Mastiff's tendency to use mouth during play.
Terceira Mastiff dogs have an average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people. It's a common habit during puppyhood, not aggressive behavior. These "bites" don't hurt, but Terceira Mastiff dogs need to be taught a good attitude.
Bite Strength Rating
How strong is a Terceira Mastiff bite? Learn about the Terceira Mastiff's bite force measured in PSI.

Between 200 and 400 PSI

Terceira Mastiff bite force: Ordinary. Bite force Terceira Mastiff measurements typically fall within the range of 200 to 400 PSI. The bite force of a Terceira Mastiff is considered ordinary when compared to other dog breeds, but it is still quite powerful. This Terceira Mastiff bite force PSI can cause bite wounds. Terceira Mastiff bite PSI is not something that should be feared if the dog is well-trained and managed. To avoid any issues, it's essential to learn how to train a Terceira Mastiff puppy not to bite from an early age.

The Terceira Mastiff, and many others, have a fearsome presence because they have significant jaw strength, so it is important not to anger the dog and have it around strangers until it is fully trained.

However, they are usually quite calm and good companions, they work well in families and are easy to care for.

In conclusion, while the Terceira Mastiff bite force is certainly an interesting aspect of the breed, it is important not to let it overshadow the many other reasons why these dogs are so loved and respected. With proper training and socialization, a Terceira Mastiff can be a loyal and protective companion for your family.

Terceira Mastiff Health and Lifespan

Average Lifespan
How long does a Terceira Mastiff live? Learn about the typical lifespan of the Terceira Mastiff breed.
10-12 years
The average lifespan of Terceira Mastiff: 11 years
Climate Tolerance
How well does a Terceira Mastiff handle different weather? Learn about the Terceira Mastiff's climate adaptability.
Prefers average to warm weather conditions
Different dogs have different preferences when it comes to weather conditions. However, in general, most dogs prefer average to warm weather conditions, as they typically find hot weather conditions to be uncomfortable and taxing.
Health Concerns
What health issues are common in a Terceira Mastiff? Discover typical conditions affecting the Terceira Mastiff breed.
Terceira Mastiffs are commonly healthy dogs. Vet costs aren't expensive with this breed.
Vet Care Frequency
How often does a Terceira Mastiff need vet visits? Learn about the Terceira Mastiff's veterinary care requirements.
Rare
The Terceira Mastiff should have a complete physical check-up at least every 12-18 months (but preferably once per year). If your dog shows any symptoms, call your veterinarian.

Terceira Mastiff Energy and Activity

Energy Rating
How energetic is a Terceira Mastiff? Understand daily activity needs of the Terceira Mastiff breed.
Terceira Mastiff dogs have an average energy level, so if you live a semi-active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
How much exercise does a Terceira Mastiff need? How much exercise do Terceira Mastiff dogs require per day?

Do Terceira Mastiff dogs need a lot of exercises?

Terceira Mastiff dogs exercise need is minimal. If you live a slow life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
Sleeping Need
How much sleep does the Terceira Mastiff breed need?
Terceira Mastiff dogs sleep 12-14 hours a day as an average dog and they're not considered a lazy breed.

Terceira Mastiff Diet and Weight Management

Obesity Tendency
Is a Terceira Mastiff prone to weight gain? Learn about the Terceira Mastiff's obesity risks.
High: The Terceira Mastiff breed has a strong tendency to be overweight. Try to find the happy medium between exercise and feeding. If you want to keep balance, increase the amount and frequency of your daily dog walk and play with the Terceira Mastiff more often.

If you notice any weight gain, consult your veterinarian and make a diet plan. Reduce unhealthy food and snacks, and measure the Terceira Mastiff weight regularly.

Food Consumption
How much food does a Terceira Mastiff need daily? Learn about the Terceira Mastiff's feeding requirements.
3 to 4 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.

Terceira Mastiff Allergies and Grooming

Allergy Friendliness
Is a Terceira Mastiff hypoallergenic? Learn about the Terceira Mastiff's suitability for allergy sufferers.
No
Terceira Mastiff dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions. Some dog breeds are even considered to higher possibility of an allergic response. Coat type isn't necessarily relevant, because most people are allergic to dander (flakes on the dog's skin) or saliva, not actually to dog hair.
Coat Colors
What colors does a Terceira Mastiff come in? Discover all possible Terceira Mastiff color variations.
FawnYellow
Grooming Requirements
How much grooming does a Terceira Mastiff need? Learn about Terceira Mastiff coat maintenance requirements.
Easy to groom: The Terceira Mastiff doesn't require a lot of grooming. Seasonal flea treatment is needed, but cutting the dog's hair by a professional groomer isn't necessary.

Ears and eyes should be cleaned regularly to avoid infections. Terceira Mastiff is a good choice if you don't have the time, skill, or money to take care of a high-maintenance dog.

Recommended for beginners.
Drooling Tendency
Does a Terceira Mastiff drool a lot? Learn about the Terceira Mastiff's drooling habits.
The Terceira Mastiff drools quite a lot, so if you dislike being covered by slobber spots on your clothes, you may want to choose another dog breed. Drooling is the unintentional saliva flowing outside of the mouth. It can be completely normal or a sign of a health problem. Certain dog breeds drool more than others, just like the Terceira Mastiff.

If you notice any change in your dog's drooling habit, you should contact a vet as soon as possible.

Stinkiness Rating
Does a Terceira Mastiff smell bad? Learn about the Terceira Mastiff's natural odor levels.

High 🔼

The Terceira Mastiff has a high chance of bad smell. Top reasons for dog stinkiness: infection of bad tooth/ear/skin folds, gas attacks.
Coat Characteristics
What type of coat does a Terceira Mastiff have? Learn about the Terceira Mastiff's fur characteristics.
Smooth
Bathing Needs
How often does a Terceira Mastiff need baths? Learn about the Terceira Mastiff's bathing requirements.
4-6 weeks
Average. Experts recommended at least every 4-6 weeks for this family pup. According to a study, 56% of pet parents don’t bathe their dogs as frequently as they should, and 60% use the sniff test when deciding when it’s bath time.

Bathing your dog is beneficial to them in more ways than just one. It’s also a good time to look for unusual scratches, bumps, fleas, and other irregularities. When their hair is wet and flat against their body, these details are more visible.

Shedding Level
How much do Terceira Mastiff dogs shed? How to control, reduce and prevent the shedding of the Cao de Fila da Terceira? Do Terceira Mastiff dogs shed a lot?
Terceira Mastiff dogs shed moderately. It's a natural process of the hair growth cycle. Regular brushing reduces the amount of hair that sheds. It mostly depends on their health status and breed type.

Terceira Mastiff Good With

Child Compatibility
Is a Terceira Mastiff good with children? Learn about the Terceira Mastiff's behavior around kids of different ages.
Terceira Mastiff dogs are very kid-friendly dogs. This breed enjoys being surrounded by children.
Pet Compatibility
How well does a Terceira Mastiff get along with other pets? Discover the Terceira Mastiff's compatibility with other animals.
Terceira Mastiff dogs are one of the friendliest dog breeds.
Stranger Friendly
Are they aggressive or friendly towards/with strangers? Terceira Mastiff temperament with other people:
Terceira Mastiff dogs are average friendly towards strangers.
Cat Friendly
How well do Terceira Mastiff dogs get along with cats? Are they good with kittens? What is this fido's temperament with cats? Can they be good with cats? Can the Terceira Mastiff breed live with a cat?
Terceira Mastiff dogs are very cat-friendly dogs.
Dog Friendly
Is Terceira Mastiff good with other dogs? Are they dog-friendly dogs? How well do Terceira Mastiff dogs get along with other dogs?
Terceira Mastiff dogs are average friendly towards other dogs.
Good For First Time Owners
Is Terceira Mastiff breed good for first-time owners? Do they make a good dog for novice owners? Is Terceira Mastiff breed suitable for first-time owners?
Yes
Terceira Mastiff dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Office Friendly
Are Terceira Mastiff dogs good office canines? Do Terceira Mastiff dogs make good office-friendly pets? Can they be office dogs?
No
Terceira Mastiff is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly
Are they senior citizens friendly dogs? How well do Terceira Mastiff dogs get along with the elderly people? What is the Cao de Fila da Terceira temperament with senior people? Are Terceira Mastiff dogs good for elderly owners?
Terceira Mastiffs are one of the best breeds for elderly people.

Terceira Mastiff As a Working Dog

Service Dog Capability
Can a Terceira Mastiff be a service dog? Learn about the Terceira Mastiff's service work potential.

Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog. A service dog is a term used in the USA to refer to any type of assistance dog specifically trained to help people who have disabilities, such as visual impairment, hearing impairments, mental disorders, seizures, mobility impairment, and diabetes. Service dogs are protected under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).

Terceira Mastiff is not the best breed for service purposes.

Therapy Work Suitability
Is a Terceira Mastiff good as a therapy dog? Learn about the Terceira Mastiff's therapy work aptitude.

Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog. A therapy dog is a dog that might be trained to provide affection, comfort, and love to people in hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, hospices, disaster areas, and people with anxiety disorders or autism.

Terceira Mastiff is not the best breed for therapeutic purposes.

Scent Detection Ability
Is a Terceira Mastiff good at detection work? Learn about the Terceira Mastiff's scenting abilities.

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases. A detection dog or sniffer dog is a dog that is trained to use its senses (mostly its smell) to detect substances such as explosives, illegal drugs, wildlife scat, currency, blood, and contraband electronics such as illicit mobile phones.

Terceira Mastiff is not the best breed for detection purposes.

Search & Rescue Potential
Can a Terceira Mastiff do search and rescue? Learn about the Terceira Mastiff's SAR capabilities.

Not really

This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog. The use of dogs in search and rescue (SAR) is a valuable component in wilderness tracking, natural disasters, mass casualty events, and locating missing people.

The Terceira Mastiff is not the best breed for SAR purposes.

Maritime Work Ability
Is a Terceira Mastiff good on boats? Learn about the Terceira Mastiff's maritime capabilities.

Not really

Terceira Mastiff breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.

Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages. They were typically used for three purposes: as a working dog, a watchdog, and as a companion. A boat dog is a term used to describe a type of dog that was traditionally bred and used as a working dog on boats.

Draft Work Capability
Can a Terceira Mastiff pull carts? Learn about the Terceira Mastiff's drafting abilities.

Yes

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. Dogs bred for this work have strong builds and qualities that are needed, strength and determination.

Terceira Mastiff breed is a good choice for drafting purposes.

Military Service Background
Was a Terceira Mastiff used in military service? Learn about the Terceira Mastiff's military history.

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Terceira Mastiff Reproducibility

Puppy Litter Size
How many puppies does a Terceira Mastiff usually have? Learn about typical litter sizes.
4-10 puppies
Pregnancy Duration
How long is a Terceira Mastiff pregnant? Learn about the Terceira Mastiff's gestation period.

60-64 days

Reproductive cycle of the female Terceira Mastiff: The first period called Proestrus lasts for about 9 days.

During this time the females start to attract males. You can notice by swelling vulva and bloody discharge.

The second part is the Estrus when the female is receptive for the male. It lasts for about 3 to 11 days.

The sign of the proestrus part is the soft and enlarged vulva. The discharge decreases and lightens in color.

The third part is the Diestrus. Normally, it occurs around day 14. In this period the female’s discharge changes for vivid red and coming to its end. The vulva returns to average, and she will no longer permit mating.

The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time frame between heat periods normally lasts about six months.

Breeding Frequency
How often can a Terceira Mastiff have puppies? Learn about safe breeding intervals.

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy. It is very important not to buy a dog from a puppy mill, where the needs of the pups and their mothers are ignored. It's an inhumane high-volume dog breeding facility, where puppies born several times a year.

Terceira Mastiff Recognition

AKC Classification
What AKC group is a Terceira Mastiff in? Learn about the Terceira Mastiff's AKC classification.
Not recognized by the American Kennel Club.
FCI Classification
What FCI group is a Terceira Mastiff in? Learn about the Terceira Mastiff's international classification.
Not recognized by FCI.

Terceira Mastiff Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Health Concerns: Terceira Mastiffs are commonly healthy dogs.
  • Grooming Requirements: Easy to groom: The Terceira Mastiff doesn't require a lot of grooming.
  • Watchdog Rating: Terceira Mastiff dogs are one of the best watchdogs.
  • Lifestyle Adaptability: Terceira Mastiff dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments.
  • Child Compatibility: Terceira Mastiff dogs are very kid-friendly dogs.
  • Cat Friendly: Terceira Mastiff dogs are very cat-friendly dogs.
  • Senior Citizens Friendly: Terceira Mastiffs are one of the best breeds for elderly people.
  • Good For First Time Owners: Terceira Mastiff dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
  • Draft Work Capability: A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling.
Cons
  • Allergy Friendliness: Terceira Mastiff dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Drooling Tendency: The Terceira Mastiff drools quite a lot, so if you dislike being covered by slobber spots on your clothes, you may want to choose another dog breed.
  • Stinkiness Rating: The Terceira Mastiff has a high chance of bad smell.
  • Obesity Tendency: High: The Terceira Mastiff breed has a strong tendency to be overweight.
  • Office Friendly: Terceira Mastiff is not the best dog breed for office environment.

Terceira Mastiff History

The Terceira Mastiff is a Portuguese dog landrace, also known as the Rabo Torto Molosser Dogs. The breed is a medium-sized dog that represents the Fila or Dogo type and resembles the Cão Fila de São Miguel as it is considered as an ancestor to both breeds. One of its most remarkable features is an innately short, corkscrew-like tail. Moreover, its nose can be either black, pink, or brown and the color of the short, smooth coat can be either fawn or yellow, always with a light mask. The red, brindle, and black individuals are usually considered to be impure with their height being approximately 55 cm.

Furthermore, the Terceira Mastiff comes from the island of Terceira, hence the name, located in the Azores. Experts are not completely sure about the breed’s origin but what they know for sure is that it descends from local dogs, the Old Spanish and English mastiffs and bulldogs, the Dogue de Bordeaux, and the Bloodhound. According to a legend, the breed was once very popular among the pirates of the region and soon it became a fighting dog as well. In the 1880s, a veterinarian called Dr. Jose Leite Pacheco wrote the first breed standard and intended to make the nickname ‘Rabo Torto’ (rabo meaning tail, and torto meaning curled/twisted) as the official name of the breed instead of the Cão de Fila de Terceira. However, back in that time, the Terceira Mastiff was already extremely endangered, which was one of the reasons why it was never accepted by the FCI, despite the Portuguese standard. Much later, in 1960 there was an attempt to revive the breed with the aid of the Portuguese government but there was a disagreement between the government officials and breeders. This led to the complete failure of the project. After this, the future of the Terceira Mastiff depended mostly on local farmers and breed fanciers. However, unfortunately in the 1970s, the breed was already declared extinct, although there were still some individuals left in the Azores.

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