Pastore Della Lessinia E Del Lagorai Dog Breed [ FULL Guide + Pictures ]

Dog Breed Information

The Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai, often just called the Lessinia Shepherd, is a truly special and unique dog breed, native to the rugged and picturesque mountain regions of northern Italy. If you’ve never heard of this breed before, you’re not alone-its popularity is relatively contained within its home country, but that doesn’t make it any less fascinating!

This breed was primarily bred for working in harsh mountainous conditions, herding livestock such as cattle and sheep across the steep slopes of the Lessinia and Lagorai mountain ranges. Their origin goes back hundreds of years, and they were trusted to navigate the treacherous terrain with agility and skill. Nowadays, they’re still valued for their herding abilities but have also gained attention as loyal companions for people who enjoy an active lifestyle.

Now, let’s take a closer look at this incredible breed’s personality, appearance, and overall lifestyle.

Definition Of The Pastore Della Lessinia E Del Lagorai Dog Breed

The Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai is an ancient, medium-sized shepherd dog that was specifically developed for herding in the highlands of northern Italy. It’s not just any herding dog-this breed has been selectively bred for its resilience, intelligence, and work ethic.

Origin: Northern Italy, particularly the Lessinia and Lagorai mountain regions.
Primary Role: Historically, they served as shepherds for flocks of sheep and cattle, ensuring the animals were safely guided across the mountainous terrain.
Personality Traits: While they have the hardworking and dutiful nature of a shepherd dog, they’re also known for being incredibly loyal, intelligent, and independent. They form strong bonds with their human families and make excellent protectors.
Recognition: The breed is not as globally recognized as others like the Collie or Border Collie, but it holds deep significance in its region of origin, with its working abilities being its most prized feature.

Physical Characteristics Of The Pastore Della Lessinia E Del Lagorai Dog Breed

Physically, the Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai is a sturdy, medium-sized dog with a muscular build and a distinctive look that speaks to its working past. Everything about their appearance exudes strength and practicality, which makes sense given their hard-working history.

Body: They have a well-proportioned, athletic frame that’s built for agility and endurance. Their bodies are compact but strong enough to endure hours of strenuous work.
Head: The head is proportionate to the body, with a broad skull and a slightly rounded shape. Their expression is intelligent and alert, reflecting their natural instinct and awareness.
Ears: They have triangular ears, typically set high on the head, that stand erect when they are alert or on the move. Their ears are often a defining feature, giving them a sharp, keen look.
Tail: Their tail is another signature characteristic. It is medium in length and typically carried low, but when excited or engaged, it may raise to a horizontal or slightly upward position. The tail’s movement adds a lot to their expressiveness.
Coat Texture: Their double coat is thick and dense, designed to protect them in the extreme weather conditions they once worked in. The outer coat is rough and coarse, while the undercoat is soft and insulating, keeping the dog comfortable during both cold winters and warmer summers.

Colors Of The Pastore Della Lessinia E Del Lagorai Dog Breed

The coat of the Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai comes in several traditional colors, which not only make them stand out visually but also help blend in with the landscapes they were originally bred to work in.

Common Colors
- Gray: This is the most common color and comes in various shades, from a light silver to a darker, almost slate-like gray. The gray is often mixed with black or lighter undercoat hues.
- Black: Some individuals are solid black, though this is less common than the gray variations.
- Fawn: A tan or fawn-colored coat is another possible color, often paired with darker shades on the ears, back, and tail.
- Mixed: A variety of other color combinations are also possible, with markings of darker shades around the face, ears, and legs.

What makes the coat color interesting is that it can be a reflection of their natural habitat, helping them blend in with the rocky, mountainous landscapes of their homeland.

Size Of The Pastore Della Lessinia E Del Lagorai Dog Breed

The Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai is considered a medium-sized dog, though there is some variation in size depending on genetics and gender.

Height
- Males typically stand around 19-22 inches (48-56 cm) at the shoulder.
- Females are usually slightly smaller, standing around 18-21 inches (46-53 cm).
Weight
- Males: Usually weigh between 40-50 pounds (18-23 kg).
- Females: Typically weigh between 35-45 pounds (16-20 kg).

While not a giant breed, their strong and muscular build gives them the appearance of a much larger dog. Their size is ideal for navigating rugged mountain landscapes while still being compact enough for agility.

Life Expectancy Of The Pastore Della Lessinia E Del Lagorai Dog Breed

This breed is known for its hardiness, and part of that durability extends to its overall health and life expectancy. Being relatively untouched by the modern pressures of overbreeding, the Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai tends to enjoy a long and healthy life compared to other breeds.

Average Life Expectancy: They generally live between 12-14 years. However, like all breeds, their health can be influenced by factors like diet, exercise, and genetics.
Health Considerations: This breed is relatively free from genetic health issues, but they can suffer from typical canine concerns such as hip dysplasia or eye problems, especially as they age. Regular vet check-ups and a good exercise routine will ensure they stay fit and healthy throughout their life.

Temperament Of The Pastore Della Lessinia E Del Lagorai Dog Breed

These dogs are a perfect blend of intelligence, loyalty, and energy. Let’s break it down:

Friendly but Independent: While they are highly affectionate and form strong bonds with their families, these dogs are also very independent. This trait comes from their roots as herding dogs. They often think for themselves, which is great for working dogs but can pose a challenge for first-time owners.
Loyal and Protective: Like many shepherd breeds, the Pastore Della Lessinia e Del Lagorai is deeply loyal to its pack. They can be very protective of their family and territory, making them great watchdogs, though they’re not overly aggressive. They tend to be reserved with strangers but warm up quickly once they sense trust.
Intelligent and Quick Learners: These dogs have excellent problem-solving abilities and are quite intuitive. They need mental stimulation to stay happy. If you’re not providing them with enough to do, they can easily become bored and develop mischievous habits. This breed thrives on learning new tasks and challenges.
Energetic and Playful: Known for their stamina, they can keep up with active families or individuals. If you’re a jogger or hiker, this breed will make a great companion. They enjoy outdoor activities and need plenty of exercise to burn off their natural energy.
Calm in the Home: Though active outdoors, when indoors, these dogs tend to be more relaxed. They’re not hyperactive house dogs, but they still enjoy lounging near their owners.

Any Shedding Issues For The Pastore Della Lessinia E Del Lagorai Dog Breed?

The Pastore Della Lessinia e Del Lagorai has a double coat, which is one of their most notable features. Here’s what you can expect in terms of shedding:

Moderate Shedding: This breed sheds moderately year-round. While they’re not heavy shedders like some larger breeds, you’ll definitely notice hair around the house, especially during their shedding seasons.
Seasonal Shedding: Like many dogs with a double coat, they experience two major shedding periods-usually in spring and fall. During these times, expect to do more frequent brushing to manage the loose hair.
Not Hypoallergenic: If you or someone in your household has allergies, this breed may not be the best choice. Their shedding is fairly typical, and though it’s manageable, it might trigger reactions in sensitive individuals.
Maintenance: Regular brushing (2-3 times a week) helps manage shedding and prevents mats from forming. Their outer coat is rough, while the undercoat is dense and soft. Keeping on top of grooming will reduce hair buildup in your living spaces.

Grooming Needs For The Pastore Della Lessinia E Del Lagorai Dog Breed

While not extremely high-maintenance in terms of grooming, the Pastore Della Lessinia e Del Lagorai does require regular care to keep their coat healthy and comfortable. Here’s what you’ll need to focus on:

Brushing: As mentioned, these dogs have a thick double coat, so regular brushing is essential. Twice a week will usually suffice, though during peak shedding periods, more frequent brushing is necessary to prevent mats and tangles.
- Use a pin brush or slicker brush for the outer coat.
- A comb with wide teeth can help detangle the softer undercoat.
Bathing: Only bathe your Pastore Della Lessinia e Del Lagorai when they’re visibly dirty or have an unpleasant odor. Over-bathing can strip their coat of natural oils, making it dry and brittle.
Nail Care: These dogs are active, and their nails wear down naturally, but you still need to trim them every 4-6 weeks to keep them comfortable. Long nails can cause discomfort when they run or walk on hard surfaces.
Ear Care: Regularly check their ears for wax buildup or signs of infection. Their floppy ears can trap moisture, which makes them prone to ear infections if not properly cleaned.
Teeth Cleaning: Good oral hygiene should be a regular part of their grooming routine. Brush their teeth 2-3 times a week with dog-safe toothpaste to prevent plaque buildup and maintain their dental health.

Diet Requirements Of The Pastore Della Lessinia E Del Lagorai Dog Breed

The Pastore Della Lessinia e Del Lagorai has an active metabolism due to its working background, so they need a balanced, high-quality diet to support their energy levels and health.

High-Protein Diet: Given their herding background, these dogs need a diet rich in protein (at least 20-30%) to support muscle mass and overall strength. Look for foods that list animal-based proteins (like chicken, beef, or lamb) as the first ingredient.
Healthy Fats: Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids are important for maintaining a healthy coat and skin. Fish oils and flaxseed are good sources of these nutrients.
Complex Carbohydrates: Sweet potatoes, brown rice, or barley are excellent sources of carbs that provide sustained energy, especially for this high-energy breed.
Vitamins & Minerals: Make sure their food is fortified with essential vitamins like A, C, and E, which help with immune function and general well-being. Calcium is also crucial for strong bones, especially since they’re an active breed.
Meal Frequency: Due to their size and activity level, you might want to split their food into two meals a day to prevent bloating or overeating.
Watch the Treats: Like with all dogs, it’s important to monitor their treat intake. While they love food and can be highly motivated by treats, excessive snacking can lead to weight gain, especially if they aren’t getting as much exercise in colder months.

Health Issues Of The Pastore Della Lessinia E Del Lagorai Dog Breed

This breed is generally quite healthy, but like all dogs, they can be prone to some health issues:

Hip Dysplasia: As with many medium-to-large breeds, hip dysplasia is a possibility. Regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight can help manage this condition.
Elbow Dysplasia: Another joint issue that’s common in larger breeds. It occurs when the elbow joint doesn’t form properly, causing pain and mobility issues. Again, exercise is important, but overexertion should be avoided.
Eye Issues: Some individuals might develop cataracts or progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), which affects vision over time. Regular eye exams are recommended.
Allergies: Due to their dense coat and outdoor activity, these dogs can develop allergies, including food allergies or environmental sensitivities like pollen or dust mites.
Dental Issues: Like many breeds, the Pastore Della Lessinia e Del Lagorai can suffer from dental problems, such as tartar buildup, which could lead to gum disease. Regular teeth brushing can prevent this.

Training And Exercise Needs Of The Pastore Della Lessinia E Del Lagorai Dog Breed

Training and exercise are huge priorities for this intelligent and energetic breed.

Training: Due to their intelligence, they’re quick learners, but they can also be a bit stubborn. They need firm, consistent leadership. Positive reinforcement works best-treats, praise, and playtime.
- Start training early to socialize them with other animals, pets, and people.
- Use variety in training exercises to keep them mentally stimulated, as they get bored with repetitive tasks.
- This breed excels in dog sports like agility, obedience, and herding trials, which provide both mental and physical challenges.
Exercise: These dogs need a lot of physical activity to stay happy. At least 1-2 hours of exercise daily is essential for their health. Long walks, hikes, jogs, and playtime in a securely fenced yard are great options.
- They excel at activities that engage both their body and mind-consider agility training or tracking.
- Interactive toys and puzzles can keep them entertained indoors.

FAQs

What Is The Origin Of The Pastore Della Lessinia E Del Lagorai Breed?

The Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai is an Italian breed originating from the mountainous regions of Lessinia and Lagorai in northeastern Italy. It was traditionally used as a herding dog for cattle, sheep, and goats.

What Are The Key Physical Characteristics Of The Pastore Della Lessinia E Del Lagorai?

This breed is a medium-sized dog with a well-proportioned body. It has a thick double coat that can range from short to slightly long, often with a rough texture. The coat is typically sable, fawn, or gray, and the dog has expressive almond-shaped eyes and triangular ears.

Is The Pastore Della Lessinia E Del Lagorai A Good Family Pet?

Yes, the Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai can be an excellent family pet. They are loyal, intelligent, and protective. While they are very social and affectionate with their families, they may need proper socialization to interact well with strangers.

What Is The Temperament Of The Pastore Della Lessinia E Del Lagorai?

The breed is known for its intelligence, independence, and alertness. They are very loyal to their families and can be reserved or protective around strangers. They are also active and enjoy having a job to do, making them suitable for people with active lifestyles.

How Much Exercise Does A Pastore Della Lessinia E Del Lagorai Need?

Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai dogs are highly active and require regular exercise. They need at least an hour of daily activity, including walks, runs, or playtime, as they were bred to work in rugged mountainous terrain.

Are Pastore Della Lessinia E Del Lagorai Dogs Easy To Train?

Yes, they are highly trainable, thanks to their intelligence. However, their independent nature means they may not always follow commands immediately. Positive reinforcement techniques work best to keep them engaged and motivated.

How Long Do Pastore Della Lessinia E Del Lagorai Dogs Live?

The average lifespan of a Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai is typically 12 to 15 years, with some dogs living even longer with proper care and attention.

Do Pastore Della Lessinia E Del Lagorai Dogs Have Any Health Issues?

This breed is generally healthy, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain conditions, including hip dysplasia and eye problems. Regular vet checkups and a healthy lifestyle are essential for maintaining their well-being.

What Grooming Needs Does A Pastore Della Lessinia E Del Lagorai Have?

The Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai has a coat that requires regular brushing to prevent matting, especially during shedding season. However, they are relatively low-maintenance when compared to other herding breeds with longer coats.

Is The Pastore Della Lessinia E Del Lagorai Suitable For Apartment Living?

Due to their active and working nature, the Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai is better suited for homes with large yards or rural settings. They may struggle with apartment living unless they receive adequate exercise and mental stimulation.

Pastore Della Lessinia E Del Lagorai Dog Pictures

pastore della lessinia e del lagorai dog breed pictures