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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.

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Terceira Mastiff dog profile picture
OriginPortugal flagPortugal
Other Names
What other names does the Terceira Mastiff have?
Cao de Fila da TerceiraRabo TortoFila da Terceira
Breed Type
What type of dog breed is it?
Purebred

Terceira Mastiff Size and Weight

Size
Is a Terceira Mastiff small, medium or large dog?

How big do Terceira Mastiff get?

What is the average size of a Terceira Mastiff?

Large
Weight
How much does the Terceira Mastiff weigh? How much should a Terceira Mastiff weight? What is the normal weight of a Terceira Mastiff? How much does a full-grown Terceira Mastiff weight?
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
How much does the Terceira Mastiff puppy cost? What is the price range of this puppy? What is the average price of a Terceira Mastiff in the United States? How much money is a Terceira Mastiff?

Where to buy a Terceira Mastiff with a good pedigree?

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

Intelligent Rank
How smart is the Terceira Mastiff? Is the Terceira Mastiff breed dumb or smart?
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.

Trainability
Are Terceira Mastiff dogs easy to train? Do they go well on dog training? How hard is it to train a Terceira Mastiff?
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 Ability
Is Terceira Mastiff good as a watchdog? Are they alert at night?
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.
Guarding Behavior / Territorial
Do Terceira Mastiff dogs have aggressive behavior to protect their home/house/territory? Do they have guarding instincts?
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

Temperament
What kind of personality does the Terceira Mastiff have? What characteristics or traits does the breed have?
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

Playfulness
How playful is this breed?
Terceira Mastiffs are not the most playful dog breed. Sometimes they do like playing, but that's not their favorite activity.
Barking
Do Terceira Mastiff dogs bark a lot? Are they barkers/noisy? Why does my Cao de Fila da Terceira bark?
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.

Apartment Friendly
Is Terceira Mastiff good as an apartment dog? Can they live in a flat? Can you have a Terceira Mastiff in an apartment?
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

Adaptability
Are they adaptable and easy-going?
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.
Tolerates Being Left Alone
How long can a Terceira Mastiff be left alone? How long can you leave a Terceira Mastiff alone?
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 Force PSI
Does the Terceira Mastiff has a hard bite? What is the bite force of a Terceira Mastiff? How much bite force does a Terceira Mastiff have? How strong is a Terceira Mastiff bite?

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.

Biting Potential
Do Terceira Mastiff bite humans? How likely are you to get bitten from the Cao de Fila da Terceira? What are the odds of getting bitten by a Terceira Mastiff? Why do dog bites happen?

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.)
Mouthiness
How much mouthing/nipping/play biting does the Terceira Mastiff do?
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.

Terceira Mastiff Health and Lifespan

Health Issues
Is it a healthy or unhealthy breed? Do Terceira Mastiff dogs have health problems or genetic diseases?
Terceira Mastiffs are commonly healthy dogs. Vet costs aren't expensive with this breed.
Veterinarian Visits
How often does the Terceira Mastiff breed need to go to the vet? How often should you take your dog to the vet? How often should the Terceira Mastiff see the vet?
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.
Life Expectancy
How long do Terceira Mastiff dogs live? How old can a Terceira Mastiff be? What is the age limit of the Terceira Mastiff? How many years can the oldest Terceira Mastiff live?

What is the average life expectancy / lifespan of a Terceira Mastiff?

How long is the lifespan of a Terceira Mastiff?

10-12 years
The average lifespan of Terceira Mastiff: 11 years
Weather and Climate
Which weather condition is preferred by this dog? Can they tolerate hot or cold weather and climate?
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.

Terceira Mastiff Energy and Activity

Energy Level
How much energy does the Terceira Mastiff have? What is the activity level of the Terceira Mastiff?
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

Average daily food consumption
How much food does a Terceira Mastiff need? What dog products should I buy? How much food does a Terceira Mastiff breed eat per day? What is good dog food for Terceira Mastiff? How much food should I feed my Terceira Mastiff?
3 to 4 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.
Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity
How easy to gain weight for this dog? Terceira Mastiff risk for obesity:
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.

Terceira Mastiff Allergies and Grooming

Coat / Hair Types
What type of coat does the Terceira Mastiff have? What does this canine coat/fur look like?
Smooth
Colors
What color is the breed's coat? What color are proper Terceira Mastiff coats?
FawnYellow
Grooming
How to groom the Terceira Mastiff and how often? How often should I take my Terceira Mastiff to the groomer?
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.
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.
Bath Time / Bathing Frequency
How often does the Terceira Mastiff need a bath? How often should you give a Terceira Mastiff a bath? Can I bathe my Terceira Mastiff every day?
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.

Hypoallergenic
Is the Terceira Mastiff breed hypoallergenic?
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.
Stinkiness
How stinky is this dog? Why does it smell bad and how to get rid of the smell?

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.
Drooling Tendency
Does the Terceira Mastiff drool?
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.

Terceira Mastiff Good With

Pet Friendly
Are they pet-friendly dogs? How well do Terceira Mastiff dogs get along with other pets? Are Terceira Mastiff dogs good with pets? What is this canine temperament with other pets?
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.
Child Friendly
Are Terceira Mastiff dogs kid-friendly? Are they good with young children? Terceira Mastiff temperament with children:
Terceira Mastiff dogs are very kid-friendly dogs. This breed enjoys being surrounded by children.
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
Are they good as service dogs? Can Terceira Mastiff be a guide dog? Are they used as seeing-eye dogs?

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 Dog
Are they good as therapy dogs? Can Terceira Mastiff be a therapy dog? Are they good anxiety dogs? Can a Terceira Mastiff be an emotional support animal?

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.

Detection Dog or Sniffer Dog
Are they good as detection dogs? Can Terceira Mastiff be a sniffer dog?

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 and Rescue Dog (SAR)
Are they good as SAR dogs? Can Terceira Mastiff be a search and rescue dog?

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.

Boat and Sailor Dog
Are they good as boat dogs? Can Terceira Mastiff be a boat dog?

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.

Cart Pulling or Drafting Dog
Are they good as cart pulling dogs? Can Terceira Mastiff be a drafting dog?

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.

Fighting Dog / Military Dog
Where Terceira Mastiff dogs used as fighting / military dogs in history?

Not really

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

Terceira Mastiff Reproducibility

Gestation Length
How long is a Terceira Mastiff pregnant?How long does it take to have puppies? How to tell if the Terceira Mastiff breed is pregnant?

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.

Litter Frequency

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.
Litter Size
How many puppies can the Terceira Mastiff have in a litter? How many puppies can the Terceira Mastiff breed have for the first time? How many puppies does a Terceira Mastiff have? How many puppies can a Terceira Mastiff give birth to?
4-10 puppies

Terceira Mastiff Recognition

AKC Group
Is Terceira Mastiff recognized by the American Kennel Club?
Not recognized by the American Kennel Club.
FCI Group
Is Terceira Mastiff recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)?
Not recognized by FCI.

Terceira Mastiff Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Health Issues: Terceira Mastiffs are commonly healthy dogs.
  • Grooming: Easy to groom: The Terceira Mastiff doesn't require a lot of grooming.
  • Watchdog Ability: Terceira Mastiff dogs are one of the best watchdogs.
  • Adaptability: Terceira Mastiff dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments.
  • Child Friendly: 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.
  • Cart Pulling or Drafting Dog: A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling.
Cons
  • Hypoallergenic: 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: The Terceira Mastiff has a high chance of bad smell.
  • Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity: 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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