Question 1

Is the Catalan Sheepdog recognised by the AKC?

Accepted Answer

No. The AKC does not recognise the breed. It is recognised by the FCI in Group 1 since 1954, by the Kennel Club in the Pastoral group, and by the UKC, which registered it as the Catalonian Sheepdog on 1 July 2006.

Question 2

Does the Catalan Sheepdog shed a lot?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The FCI standard describes a two-stage moult in which the front half of the dog sheds first and the hind half follows, so for a few weeks it looks like two coats on one dog. The Kennel Club breed page says the breed does not shed, which contradicts the standard it publishes.

Question 3

Are the double dewclaws normal in this breed?

Accepted Answer

Yes, and they are essential. The hind feet carry low-set double bony dewclaws joined to the first toe by a membrane, and the FCI disqualifies a dog lacking dewclaws or interdigital membranes. A puppy with single or removed hind dewclaws is out of standard.

Question 4

How much exercise does it need?

Accepted Answer

The Kennel Club allows up to an hour a day and the UK breed club describes long walks or a couple of hours of play. In practice this is a working sheepdog, so it needs a job as well as mileage, through obedience, agility, rally or scent work.

Question 5

Is it good with children and other pets?

Accepted Answer

The standard describes a dog that is wary of strangers and can seem unsociable, and several English profiles note limited patience with other pets. Older children who respect a dog's space are a better fit than toddlers, and early socialisation does most of the work.

Catalan Sheepdog: A Shaggy, Independent-Minded Herder

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