The Associação Portuguesa do Cão da Serra da Estrela was founded on December 2, 1986,  in Lisbon, as published in the Diário da Republica on February 17, 1987. There were 29 founding members and, on January 23, 1987, the first general meeting took place. Affiliated and member of the Portuguese Kennel Club (CPC), APCSE's mission is:

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• promote the dissemination and development of the Estrela Mountain Dog as a utility, companion and working dog;

• work towards the refinement of the Breed in its two varieties (long-haired and short-haired), so that they do not deviate from the official standard;

• The organization of the Monográfica and specialty shows and educational competitions;

• Promote exchanges with other Clubs and Associations;

• Contribute to the global prestige of the Breed in a playful and didactic way, in social interventions, in schools, prisons and hospitals.

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Currently, APCSE is committed to carrying out many initiatives, in the areas of research, education and dissemination, aiming to deepen scientific knowledge about the breed and go further in its global improvement, in its dignification, promotion and in the preservation of both the varieties.