The breed gained provisional recognition in 1995 by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale, which categorised it as Breed 340, Section 2 (Cattle Dogs) of Group 1. Azores Cattle Dogs are of medium size, with strong jaws and well-developed musculature. A descendent of the now extinct Terceira dog, the breed was developed for its ability to work with grazing cattle, but can be prone to aggressiveness.

The Cão Fila de São Miguel, also known as the Azores Cattle Dog, or São Miguel Cattle Dog, is a breed of dog originating from São Miguel, the largest island in the Azores.