While your Estrela Mountain Dog will be loyal and affectionate towards you, it may be aloof towards others. It is integral that they are well socialised with both dogs and people, especially with children, when young as the breed tends to be naturally wary of strangers. Very friendly by nature, they will warm up once they become familiar with people. Having originally been bred to fight off wolves and protect sheep, they are very defensive of their territory. Intelligent and alert, it is their natural instinct to assume the dominant role. It is integral that you, as the owner, assert your position and the lines are clearly defined and rules are set. Like many other mountain dog breeds, the Estrela Mountain Dog is particularly good with children. The Estrela Mountain Dog needs plenty of mental and physical stimulation. They are not designed for apartment life and at the least need a large yard to play in. Because its thick coat protects it so well, it can happily cope with living out-doors provided it has proper shelter. Patient, kind and gentle, it makes a great family dog as well as a protective guardian. This assertive and versatile dog is able to switch from defensive mode to nurturing mode as needed. You will enjoy living with your Estrela Mountain Dog as long as the leadership is clear.