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Pet Insurance for Estrela Mountain Dogs

Find out all about Estrela Mountain Dogs and their common health conditions, then compare pet insurance options from some of Australia’s leading insurers.

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, updated on September 28th, 2023       

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Price range

N/A

Height

62–73cm

Weight

35–60kg

Personality

Loyal, protective, calm

Coat length

Long or short, double coat

Exercise needs

Moderate

Kid-friendly?

Yes – with supervision

Life expectancy

12–14 years

Estrela Mountain Dog

Overview

The Estrela Mountain Dog, originally hailing from the Serra da Estrela mountains in Portugal, is a breed known for its impressive size and steadfast nature. The dogs are characterised by their muscular frame, dense double coat and proud, alert expression. Their coat comes in both long and short varieties, providing them with insulation against harsh weather conditions.

The Estrela Mountain Dog’s temperament is marked by an unwavering devotion to their family. This breed thrives in an environment where they are an integral part of the family, as their loyalty and loving nature make them a cherished companion. They are best suited for households with space to accommodate their size and an understanding of their protective instincts.

Common diseases and conditions of Estrela Mountain Dogs

Estrela Mountain Dogs are a generally healthy breed. However, they may be susceptible to the following:

  • Hip dysplasia: this is a genetic condition where the hip joint doesn’t develop properly, potentially leading to arthritis or lameness over time. Regular exercise and a balanced diet can help manage this condition.
  • Elbow dysplasia: similar to hip dysplasia, this is a developmental disorder that affects the elbow joint. It can lead to lameness and arthritis, and may require surgical intervention in severe cases.
  • Bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus): this is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition in large, deep-chested breeds like the Estrela Mountain Dog. It occurs when the stomach fills with gas and twists on itself. Immediate veterinary attention is required.
  • Heart conditions: Estrela Mountain Dogs can be prone to certain heart conditions like dilated cardiomyopathy. Regular veterinary check-ups and a balanced diet can help monitor and manage heart health.

Breed-specific issues:  

Estrela Mountain Dogs come with a natural protective instinct, often displaying wariness towards unfamiliar faces. This protective nature is deeply ingrained in their temperament. It's crucial for owners to be aware of this trait and to provide early socialisation along with consistent, positive training. This will help them strike a balance between being watchful guardians and showcasing their equally gentle and affectionate side. It's important to note that, like any breed, individual temperament may vary, and early socialisation plays a crucial role in ensuring they are well-adjusted and comfortable in various social situations. With the right guidance, they can be both loyal protectors and loving companions to their families.

How much does pet insurance cost for an Estrela Mountain Dog?

There are many factors that can influence the cost of pet insurance for your Estrela Mountain Dog, including the following: 

  • Age: the older your dog is, the more pet insurance is likely to cost. This is because older dogs tend to have more physical health conditions and illnesses due to age, and so present a higher insurance risk.   
  • Type of insurance you choose:  there are three basic types of pet insurance available in Australia; accident-only, accident and illness, and comprehensive insurance. An accident-only policy is the cheapest type available, with comprehensive coverage costing the most. 
  • The policy annual limit: each pet insurance policy has an annual limit, which is the maximum amount that will be paid out on the policy in one financial year. Annual limits range from around $10,000 up to $25,000 or more.  
  • Sub limits: in addition to an annual limit, there may also be sub limits that apply to the policy, for example a $300 sub limit for consultation fees, or a $5,000 limit for cruciate ligament conditions.  
  • Benefit percentage: pet insurance may not cover 100% of the cost of your vet bill. Instead, it may pay a percentage of the total bill. This can range from 50% for cheaper policies up to 90% for top-of-the-range cover. 
  • Excess amount: this is the amount you’ll need to pay out-of-pocket each time you make a claim on your policy. Some pet insurance policies do not come with an excess amount, while others do. 
  • Any add-ons you choose: it’s possible to add on more cover options to a basic policy, such as emergency boarding fees, routine care and dental care. These add-ons extend the scope of your pet insurance, but do increase the overall cost of the policy.
  • Discounts: some insurers offer discounts of between 5% and 15% if you have multiple pets insured together, if you pay your premium annually, or if you bundle your pet insurance with other forms of insurance with the same company.  

Types of pet insurance you can choose from

Why compare pet insurance with Savvy?

Common questions about Estrela Mountain Dogs

Are Estrela Mountain Dogs good with children?

Yes – Estrela Mountain Dogs are known for their gentle and protective nature, which makes them excellent companions for children. They are often patient playmates, engaging in games and activities with a watchful eye. However, due to their size and protective instincts, it is important to provide supervision, especially with small children, to ensure safe interactions and to prevent any unintentional rough play.

What is the grooming routine for an Estrela Mountain Dog?

Estrela Mountain Dogs have a thick double coat that requires regular attention. Brushing should be a regular part of their routine to prevent matting and tangling. Additionally, they shed seasonally and may require more frequent brushing during these times. Routine grooming should include regular nail trimming, ear cleaning and dental care to maintain their overall health and well-being.

Are Estrela Mountain Dogs easy to train?

No – while intelligent, Estrela Mountain Dogs can exhibit independent tendencies, which may present training challenges. Consistent, positive reinforcement methods work best, emphasising patience and persistence. Early socialisation and obedience training are crucial to shape their behaviour and ensure they grow into well-adjusted adults.

Are Estrela Mountain Dogs suitable for first-time dog owners?

No – while they can make wonderful pets, their independent nature and strong protective instincts may require more experienced handling. First-time owners should be prepared for consistent training, socialisation and a commitment to meet the dog’s exercise and mental stimulation needs.

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Compare pet insurance policies with Savvy

Whether you're buying for your dog or cat and whether they're big or small, you can compare pet insurance policies tailored to your furry friend's needs from Savvy's panel of trusted Australian insurers. Grab a free, no-obligation quote today!
Estrela Mountain Dog

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