Rafeiro do Alentejo
Adult Size: Females 25-28 inches and 100-121 pounds,
Males 27-28 inches and 110-132 pounds
Breed: Rafeiro do Alentejo
Breed Group: FSS (Foundation Stock Service)/Working

The Rafeiro do Alentejo is an FSS (Foundation Stock Service) breed. That means it isn’t recognized as an official breed by the American Kennel Club (AKC), but it will be soon. Groups like the Rafeiro do Alentejo Club are committed to obtaining recognition of the breed as well as preserving and celebrating it. For breed standards, breeders and showers can refer to the breed standard maintained by the FCI.

With a robust, muscular body and dark expressive eyes, the Rafeiro do Alentejo is the biggest of the Portuguese canine breeds. Typically, they’re very alert, particularly at night, making them an extremely confident guard dog. Not usually aggressive, although brave and steadfast, they’re affectionate with their own family, but very suspicious of strangers.

It has been said that the Rafeiro do Alentejo is descended from large dogs on the Tibetan Highlands, thousands of years ago. Their courage, swiftness and powerful fangs made them excellent for use in packs, hunting wild boar and other large game.

You need to train the Rafeiro do Alentejo beginning at a very young age, starting socialization and obedience lessons right from puppyhood. Unlike other large, docile breeds, the Rafeiro do Alentejo can be somewhat stubborn and requires an experienced owner ready to take the lead.

This is an easily groomed breed as the Rafeiro do Alentejos coat really only needs to be brushed during its twice a year shedding season.

Hip dysplasia is the only known health issue for this breed. Because the dogs are rare, prospective owners may have to wait to find an available puppy.

Back to the Dog Breeds Page        Rafeiro do Alentejo Breeders - Dogs for Sale
Rafeiro do Alentejo - Dogs for Sale