Cão de Gado Transmontano
The Cão de Gado Transmontano (Transmontano Mastiff) is a large dog breed, originating in the region of Tras-os-Montes, Portugal.
The origin of this breed joins the history of all the Iberian Mastiffs and its evolution is linked to the transhuman route on the Peninsula. The breed was developed to guard against wolf attacks, that are always prolific in the area. In ancient times, this dog stood in the high regions of Portugal, in particular in Tras-os-Montes.
In this mountainous region, which is characterized by steep fields of pastures and difficult road access, this breed has adapted to the conditions of the region and the type of cattle sheep and goats that have traditionally grazed in these areas, evolving until they corrected the genetics through selective breeding with the conditions and the type of work.