At a glance the quick version
Coat and looks how to spot one
medium-length coat
A compact, square herding dog with a small wedge-shaped head. The coat is semi-long, fuller on the belly, legs, 'trousers' and neck and shorter on the head.12
Personality what they are like
Good-natured, faithful and eager to please, it is bright, obedient and disciplined at work, and shows an interest in livestock from a young age.2
Daily activity how busy a day looks
A true working herder used with both sheep and cattle, so it thrives on daily activity and tasks.12
The story where it all began
Shepherds in the Pyrenees have used dogs like this for centuries, and photographs go back to the early 1900s. The breed became very scarce, but a recovery effort grew the known dogs from about six to more than eighty by early 2015.12
Fun facts for the dinner table
Recognised by the official bits
- Kennel clubs
- Not recognised by any major kennel club.1
How many over 80 documented dogs2
The care rhythm Furry Diary remembers it for you
A typical home-care rhythm for a Can de Chira. It is our own starting plan, not a vet's advice, and you can change every line in the app.
- Brushingevery week
- Bathevery 8 weeks
- Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
- Ear checkFloppy ears trap moisture, so check and dry themevery week
- Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
- ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
- Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
- Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 8every year
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my Can de Chira, and at what times?
Feed your adult Can de Chira at least two meals a day, and puppies three to four smaller meals. Consistent meal times help their digestion, so offer food at the same times each day. For exact amounts, check the food label and ask your vet.3
What should a Can de Chira eat, and which foods are dangerous?
Feed your Can de Chira a high-quality dog food appropriate for its age and activity level. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts, among others. Always avoid these and consult your vet for a complete list.4
How often should I bathe a Can de Chira?
Furry Diary's starting plan suggests a bath every 56 days, but you can bathe more often if your dog gets very dirty or has skin issues. Use a gentle dog shampoo and avoid over-bathing to keep its coat healthy.5 Furry Diary plan
How often does a Can de Chira need brushing?
Brush your Can de Chira weekly to keep its medium-length coat free of tangles and loose hair. Furry Diary's plan recommends brushing every 7 days, which helps maintain a healthy, shiny coat.5 Furry Diary plan
How do I trim a Can de Chira's nails, and how often?
Trim your Can de Chira's nails every 28 days, or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Use a dog nail clipper and cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick to avoid pain and bleeding.5 Furry Diary plan
How much exercise does a Can de Chira need?
This active herding dog thrives on daily activity and tasks, so plan for daily walks and play sessions. Furry Diary's plan recommends exercise every day to keep it happy and healthy.12 Furry Diary plan
How do I look after a Can de Chira's teeth and ears?
Brush your Can de Chira's teeth daily with a dog-safe toothpaste, and check its floppy ears weekly for moisture or dirt. Gently dry the ears if needed, and never push anything into the ear canal.5 Furry Diary plan
How long does a Can de Chira live?
The lifespan of a Can de Chira varies, so ask your vet or a good breeder for specific information. Regular vet check-ups and a healthy lifestyle can help your dog live a long, happy life.
Is a Can de Chira good with children and other pets?
Yes, this breed is good-natured, faithful, and eager to please, making it generally good with children and other pets when properly socialized. It shows an interest in livestock from a young age, so early training helps.2
Can a Can de Chira be left alone?
This breed is a true working herder that thrives on daily activity and tasks, so it may not do well left alone for long periods. Provide plenty of exercise and mental stimulation, and consult a good breeder for specific advice.12
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Furry Diary's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
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Where this comes from
Every breed page shows where each fact comes from. If we got something wrong, sorry, we are pet people, not a science magazine. Tell us at [email protected] and we will fix it.
- Can de Chira - Wikipedia en.wikipedia.orgused for origin, size, coat, history
- Can de chira - Wikipedia (es) es.wikipedia.orgused for temperament, name, conservation, coat
- VCA Animal Hospitals: Feeding times and frequency for your dog vcahospitals.comused for owner questions
- ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
- ASPCA: Dog grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions
- ASPCA: Cat grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions
- RSPCA: What to feed your rabbit rspca.org.ukused for owner questions
Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.