Mantiqueira Shepherd

Dog breed · Brazil

Overview

The Mantiqueira Shepherd Dog (Cão-pastor-da-mantiqueira), also known by the nicknames "Policialzinho" ("Little Policeman") or "Pastor Brasileiro" ("Brazilian Shepherd"), is a medium-sized herding dog breed that originated in the Serra da Mantiqueira mountains, in the Southeast Region of Brazil.

It functions primarily as a cattle dog (boiadeiro) and is valued for its intelligence and working ability. The breed is recognized by several national kennel clubs, including the SOBRACI (Sociedade Brasileira de Cinofilia), the ALKC (America Latina Kennel Clube), and primarily by the Confederação Brasileira de Cinofilia (CBKC), which is the principal Brazilian affiliate of the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI).

Three main coat varieties exist: long coat, medium coat, and short coat (which can be smooth, short, or curly). Males stand approximately 53 cm (21 in) at the withers and weigh up to [dose — ask your vet] (55 lbs).

Every pet is one of a kind. This guide covers what's typical for the breed, but your own dog or cat will have their own personality, quirks and needs — think of it as a friendly starting point, not the final word. Whenever you'd like advice tailored to your companion, the team at OC Pets is always happy to help.
Sources (reused under open licences, with thanks): Wikipedia — “Mantiqueira Shepherd” (CC BY-SA 4.0) · Wikidata (CC0) · image (CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons) · Compiled by OC Pets Veterinary Clinic, updated 15-06-2026.