About the Breed
Origin and History
The Rafeiro do Alentejo is an ancient dog breed originating from Portugal, specifically from the Alentejo region. The name “Rafeiro” is derived from the Portuguese word “rafa,” meaning “guardian” or “protector.”
This breed has been used for centuries as a livestock guardian and companion animal in rural areas of southern Portugal.
The Rafeiro do Alentejo is believed to have descended from an ancient dog population that was brought to the Iberian Peninsula by the Romans, who valued them as guards and hunting companions.
Over time, the breed developed distinct characteristics suited to its role as a livestock guardian, including a robust build, keen instincts, and a protective nature.
The Rafeiro do Alentejo is a large dog breed, with males weighing between 100-150 pounds (45-68 kg) and standing up to 27 inches (69 cm) tall at the shoulder. Females are slightly smaller, weighing between 80-120 pounds (36-54 kg)
The breed has a muscular build, with a broad chest, well-sprung ribs, and a deep, well-defined stop. The head is wedge-shaped, with a moderate-length muzzle and erect ears.
The Rafeiro do Alentejo coat is coarse and straight, with a mix of colors including brindle, fawn, and black. Some individuals may have white markings on the face, chest, or legs.
Despite their large size, Rafeiros are known for being gentle and calm in temperament. They are loyal to their family and territories but can be wary of strangers.
The breed has a high intelligence quotient and is relatively easy to train, as long as early socialization and consistency are emphasized.
Unfortunately, the Rafeiro do Alentejo is considered an endangered breed by some registries due to declining numbers in recent years. Efforts are being made to conserve and promote this unique heritage dog breed.
The Rafeiro do Alentejo is an ancient dog breed originating from Portugal, specifically from the Alentejo region.
The Rafeiro do Alentejo is a rare and ancient dog breed that originates from the beautiful region of Portugal known as the Alentejo. This magnificent canine has a long history dating back centuries, with some reports suggesting that it may have been present in Portugal since Roman times.
The name “Rafeiro do Alentejo” translates to “guardian dog of Alentejo,” which is a testament to its origins as a loyal companion and protector. This breed was highly valued by farmers and shepherds for its exceptional guarding abilities, intelligence, and loyalty.
The Rafeiro do Alentejo is a large dog with a sturdy build, weighing between 90-140 pounds (40-64 kg) and standing between 24-28 inches (60-70 cm) tall at the shoulder. Its coat is short, smooth, and dense, with a distinctive black color that may have white markings on its chest or paws.
The breed’s temperament is calm, gentle, and even-tempered, making it an excellent companion for families and individuals who want a loyal friend. Despite its large size, the Rafeiro do Alentejo is not generally aggressive unless provoked or threatened, which makes it an excellent choice as a guard dog.
The Rafeiro do Alentejo is also highly intelligent and easy to train, making it a great breed for first-time dog owners. With patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, this breed can learn basic obedience commands and even advanced tasks with ease.
In recent years, efforts have been made to preserve the Rafeiro do Alentejo breed and promote its welfare. As a result, responsible breeding programs have been established in Portugal and other countries to ensure that these magnificent dogs continue to thrive for generations to come.
Breed Characteristics
The Rafeiro do Alentejo is an ancient dog breed from Portugal that originated in the Alentejo region, where it was used as a guardian and herder. The name “Rafeiro” means “watchdog” or “guardian,” reflecting the breed’s primary function.
Physical Characteristics: The Rafeiro do Alentejo has a robust build with males weighing between 23-31 kg (50-68 lbs) and standing at an average height of 60 cm (24 in), while females weigh between 18-26 kg (40-57 lbs) and stand at approximately 55 cm (22 in). Their coat is short, smooth to the touch, and has a characteristic “golden-brindle” pattern with a darker stripe on each leg, chest, belly, and sides.
The head is broad, flat, and slightly rounded with well-defined cheekbones. The nose is black and rounded at the end. The eyes are brown or yellowish-brown in color, sometimes almost black. The ears hang down to the neck and are large, rounded at the tips, and relatively short in length.
The breed’s body is muscular and sturdy, with a deep chest that extends back to the elbows. The tail hangs down low and has a typical hook shape at the end, but sometimes it can be held higher for better balance.
Personality: Rafeiro do Alentejo dogs are loyal and protective of their territory, people, and property. They have an instinctive need to guard and watch over their family and home, but this does not mean they are aggressive towards others.
The breed is relatively calm and quiet, especially when compared to some other herding breeds. However, they can be very energetic and playful, especially during hunting trips or while exploring the outdoors with their owners.
They have a unique way of expressing excitement, often through loud barking, which may be annoying at times but is generally a sign of enthusiasm and engagement. They are also known for their intelligence and ability to learn quickly, making them relatively easy to train with positive reinforcement techniques.
Grooming: The Rafeiro do Alentejo coat requires minimal maintenance. A weekly brush or rubdown with a cloth will help distribute skin oils, which helps keep the coat in good condition.
This breed is generally healthy but can be prone to certain health issues such as hip dysplasia and patellar luxation. Regular veterinary check-ups are essential to monitor their overall health.
Exercise Needs: The Rafeiro do Alentejo needs regular exercise to maintain physical fitness, mental stimulation, and a healthy weight. A daily walk of about 1-2 hours combined with off-leash running or hiking is recommended for this breed.
A secure yard is essential, as they are naturally protective and may not hesitate to defend their territory if they feel threatened or perceive an intruder.
The Rafeiro do Alentejo’s versatility makes them a great addition to active families who enjoy outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, or horseback riding. However, it is also suitable for apartment living due to its relatively calm demeanor when indoors and minimal barking at night.
The Rafeiro do Alentejo is a largesized dog with a muscular build and a broad head.
The Rafeiro do Alentejo is a large-sized dog breed with a muscular build, characterized by its sturdy physique. This breed has a broad head, with a well-developed skull and a prominent stop.
The skull of the Rafeiro do Alentejo is roughly trapezoid in shape, with a slightly convex forehead and well-marked occipital protuberance. The muzzle is broad and approximately equal in length to the skull, with a slight tapering towards the nose.
The eyes of the Rafeiro do Alentejo are dark brown, almond-shaped, and relatively large, set somewhat obliquely in the skull. The ears are hanging and triangular, with a rounded tip.
One of the most distinctive features of the Rafeiro do Alentejo is its coat, which is thick, harsh, and wiry to the touch. It has two layers: an undercoat that provides insulation, and a topcoat of coarse, bristly hair.
The Rafeiro do Alentejo’s head color is black with a well-defined mask. The mask, which covers the muzzle from nose to eye level, is usually more intense than the rest of the face.
The bodysuit of the Rafeiro do Alentejo has three colors: red (rufus), brindle (with a mixture of red and black stripes), or wolf-black. The bodysuit may be solid-colored, with white markings on the chest, paws, and face.
The Rafeiro do Alentejo is an active dog that requires regular exercise to maintain its physical fitness and mental health. It is essential to provide this breed with daily walks and playtime in a securely fenced area.
Despite its large size, the Rafeiro do Alentejo makes an excellent family pet for households with children or for those who live in rural areas with space to roam.
In conclusion, the Rafeiro do Alentejo is a loyal and loving companion that thrives on attention from its human family. With proper care and exercise, this breed can enjoy a long and happy life as a cherished member of your household.
Physical Characteristics
Coat and Color
The Rafeiro do Alentejo is a rare breed of dog that originated in the Alentejo region of Portugal.
This large and majestic dog was traditionally used as a guarding animal on farms and estates, where it would protect livestock from predators such as wolves and stray dogs.
With its thick coat and powerful physique, the Rafeiro do Alentejo is well-suited to its role as a guardian.
The breed’s most distinctive feature, however, is its unique coloration: the Rafeiro do Alentejo has a solid black coat with a subtle sheen, but the surprising twist lies in the color of their fur on the inside of their mouth and anus – it is white.
Despite its origins as a working dog, the Rafeiro do Alentejo is known for its calm and gentle nature.
They are loyal companions to their families but can be wary of strangers, making them excellent watchdogs.
The breed’s thick coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling; a weekly brushing session should suffice to keep the Rafeiro do Alentejo looking its best.
Despite their large size, Rafeiros are generally quiet dogs that don’t bark much unless they feel threatened or sense something suspicious.
Owing to their rarity and limited breeding programs, finding a reputable breeder can be challenging; interested parties should be prepared for a potentially long wait to acquire one of these magnificent animals.
The Rafeiro do Alentejo has a short, smooth coat that can be black or fawn in color.
The Rafeiro do Alentejo is a breed of dog that originates from Portugal. It has a unique appearance, with a short, smooth coat that can come in two main colors: black and fawn. The coat’s texture is described as smooth, which means it requires minimal grooming to maintain its health and appearance.
The Rafeiro do Alentejo is a medium-sized breed, with adult dogs typically weighing between 65-80 pounds (29-36 kg) and standing between 23-27 inches (58-69 cm) tall at the shoulder. Males are generally larger than females.
This breed’s head shape is described as wedge-shaped, which means it tapers from the base to the muzzle, forming a pointed nose and cheekbones. The muzzle itself is broad and deep, with a well-developed jawline that indicates strong teeth and a robust bite.
The Rafeiro do Alentejo has a distinctive set of characteristics that set it apart from other breeds. These include:
Muscular build: The Rafeiro do Alentejo is known for its sturdy, athletic build, which allows it to perform tasks such as herding and guarding.
Intelligence: This breed is highly intelligent, making it responsive to training and commands.
Loyalty: The Rafeiro do Alentejo is a loyal companion that forms strong bonds with its family and owner.
Vigilance: As a guard dog breed, the Rafeiro do Alentejo is naturally vigilant and alert to potential threats or dangers.
Overall, the Rafeiro do Alentejo is a robust, intelligent, and loyal breed that makes an excellent companion for active families or individuals. Its unique appearance and characteristics make it stand out among other breeds, while its adaptability and trainability ensure it remains a popular choice for many dog owners.
Breed Group: Hound
Temperament: Loyal, intelligent, vigilant, athletic
Coat Type: Short, smooth
Color: Black, fawn
Body Type and Size
The Rafeiro do Alentejo is an ancient dog breed from Portugal, known for its distinctive physical appearance and robust build. The body type of this breed is large and sturdy, with a muscular physique that reflects its herding origins.
The Rafeiro do Alentejo has a broad chest and well-sprung ribs, giving it an impressive depth and capacity for carrying loads. Its bone structure is substantial, with strong limbs and a deep, narrow tail that provides balance and agility when moving.
The head of the Rafeiro do Alentejo is proportionate to its body size, with a flat skull and moderate stop (the area where the muzzle meets the forehead). The muzzle is slightly tapered and well-proportioned, giving the breed an expressive facial appearance.
The coat of the Rafeiro do Alentejo is coarse-textured and short to medium in length, providing protection against the elements. Its coloration typically ranges from brindle (striped) or fawn with a black mask, although other colors such as black and tan may also occur.
The Rafeiro do Alentejo is a relatively large breed, with males reaching up to 26 inches (66 cm) in height at the shoulder and weighing between 110-145 pounds (50-66 kg). Females are slightly smaller, reaching up to 24 inches (61 cm) in height and weighing between 90-120 pounds (41-54 kg).
The overall appearance of the Rafeiro do Alentejo is robust, sturdy, and powerful, reflecting its long history as a working dog in Portuguese agriculture. Its distinctive body type and size make it an impressive sight, while its intelligent, loyal nature has earned it a place in the hearts of many dog enthusiasts.
Males reach a height of 2328 inches (5871 cm) and weigh between 90110 pounds (4150 kg).
The Rafeiro do Alentejo, also known as the Portuguese Mastiff or Gentle Giant, is a massive dog breed that originates from Portugal. Here are some key characteristics and features of this impressive dog:
Height and Weight:
Males reach a height of around 62-70 inches (157-178 cm) at the shoulder, making them one of the tallest dog breeds in the world.
Despite their massive size, Rafeiro do Alentejo males typically weigh between 130-230 pounds (59-104 kg), with some individuals reaching up to 240 pounds (109 kg).
Fur and Coat:
The Rafeiro do Alentejo has a thick double coat that sheds heavily, especially during shedding season. Their coat can be fawn-colored or brindle, with a distinctive black mask on the face.
Temperament and Grooming Needs:
Rafeiros are known for their calm and gentle nature, making them suitable companions for families with children. However, they require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.
Their coat requires regular brushing to prevent matting and tangling, especially during shedding season. A weekly brush or comb-through is recommended, as well as occasional bathing when necessary.
Health Issues:
Rafeiro do Alentejo dogs are generally healthy, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health issues. These include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and eye problems such as cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy.
Diet and Nutrition:
Rafeiros require a balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs. They are large dogs with high energy levels, so they need to be fed a nutrient-rich food that supports their growth and development.
It’s recommended to feed them 2-3% of their body weight per day, divided into 2-3 meals. A Rafeiro do Alentejo puppy will require more frequent feeding, with 3-4 meals per day until they reach adulthood.
Lifespan and Life Expectancy:
The average lifespan of a Rafeiro do Alentejo is between 10-12 years. However, this can vary depending on factors such as diet, exercise, health conditions, and genetics.
Personality and Temperament
Intelligence and Trainability
The Rafeiro do Alentejo is an ancient breed that hails from Portugal, specifically from the Alentejo region. This region is characterized by its rich pastures and vast farmlands, which makes it an ideal place for raising livestock. The Rafeiro do Alentejo was originally bred to guard sheep and other farm animals from predators such as wolves and bears.
Intelligence plays a vital role in the trainability of any breed, including the Rafeiro do Alentejo. This breed is highly intelligent and able to learn quickly due to its strong herding instincts and independent nature. However, this also means that they can be stubborn at times, making training a bit more challenging.
The key to successful training with the Rafeiro do Alentejo lies in establishing clear communication and setting boundaries from an early age. Positive reinforcement techniques such as reward-based training and socialization are essential for developing good behavior and preventing unwanted habits.
One of the most important aspects of the Rafeiro do Alentejo’s intelligence is its ability to problem-solve. This breed is highly capable of adapting to new situations and finding creative solutions to challenges, which makes it an excellent working dog in various roles such as herding, guarding, and search and rescue.
Trainability is also influenced by the Rafeiro do Alentejo’s energy levels and exercise needs. This breed requires regular physical activity to maintain its mental and physical health. A lack of exercise can lead to boredom, destructive behavior, and other unwanted traits, making it essential to provide sufficient physical stimulation through activities such as running, hiking, and obedience training.
In summary, the Rafeiro do Alentejo is a highly intelligent breed that responds well to consistent training and positive reinforcement. While their independent nature can make them challenging at times, with patience, clear communication, and adequate exercise, they can become loyal companions and excellent working dogs.
The Rafeiro do Alentejo is an intelligent breed that can be challenging to train due to its independent nature.
The Rafeiro do Alentejo is an ancient breed that originated in the Alentejo region of Portugal, where it has been used for centuries as a guardian dog and farmhand.
This large-sized breed is known for its distinctive appearance, with a sturdy build, short coat, and impressive size, typically weighing between 90-170 pounds (41-77 kg) and standing between 23-27 inches (58-69 cm) tall at the shoulder.
The Rafeiro do Alentejo is an intelligent breed that can be challenging to train due to its independent nature, which makes it difficult for owners to establish clear boundaries and commands. This breed requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement training to develop a strong bond and ensure good behavior.
One of the key characteristics of the Rafeiro do Alentejo is its loyalty and affection towards its family, which makes it an excellent companion dog for those who live in rural areas or have large families. However, this breed can be wary of strangers and may not always welcome new people with open arms, requiring socialization from an early age to help them develop good manners.
In terms of exercise needs, the Rafeiro do Alentejo is a relatively low-maintenance breed that requires regular walks and playtime to keep them happy and healthy. However, they are not built for long-distance running or high-impact activities and may benefit from gentle exercises such as hiking or swimming.
Overall, the Rafeiro do Alentejo is a unique and charming breed that can make an excellent addition to the right family. With patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement training, owners can help their Rafeiro do Alentejo develop into well-behaved and loyal companions.
If you’re considering bringing a Rafeiro do Alentejo into your home, it’s essential to research the breed thoroughly and understand its needs and characteristics. With careful consideration and proper care, this beautiful breed can thrive and become a beloved member of your family for years to come.
The Rafeiro do Alentejo is an ancient breed that has been used for centuries as a guardian dog and farmhand, requiring patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement training to develop a strong bond and ensure good behavior. This loyal and affectionate breed makes an excellent companion for those who live in rural areas or have large families.
Socialization and Behavior
The Rafeiro do Alentejo is an ancient dog breed originating from Portugal, specifically in the Alentejo region. This massive Molosser-type breed has a long history as a working animal, used for guarding and herding livestock.
Socialization plays a crucial role in shaping the behavior of Rafeiro do Alentejo dogs. As with any large breed, proper socialization is essential to prevent aggression and fear-based behaviors from developing.
Puppies should be exposed to various environments, people, other animals, and experiences between 8 and 11 weeks of age. This critical period of socialization allows them to develop good manners and a confident temperament.
Rafeiro do Alentejo dogs are naturally protective of their family and territory. Socialization can help mitigate this natural instinct, ensuring they interact peacefully with strangers and other animals.
As the puppies mature, regular interactions with new people, places, and experiences will continue to shape their behavior. Positive reinforcement training methods should be used to encourage desired behaviors and address any issues that arise during socialization.
The Rafeiro do Alentejo’s strong prey drive can make them challenging to socialize around small animals, such as cats, rabbits, or other dogs. Early introduction to these species under controlled conditions can help them learn to coexist peacefully.
Positive reinforcement training is essential when working with Rafeiro do Alentejo dogs. Rewarding desired behaviors encourages good behavior and reinforces the bond between dog and handler.
Rafeiro do Alentejo dogs respond well to consistent, clear communication and positive reinforcement techniques. Early socialization, combined with patient and gentle training methods, will help develop a confident, well-behaved companion.
In addition to socialization, exercise and mental stimulation are vital components of Rafeiro do Alentejo dog care. Regular physical activity, combined with engaging activities like obedience training or scent work, helps maintain their physical and mental health.
This breed is known for its loyalty and protective instincts, making it a suitable companion for families with children.
The Rafeiro do Alentejo is a large breed dog that originated in Portugal, specifically in the Alentejo region, hence its name. They are known for their distinctive physical characteristics and endearing personality traits.
This breed is often referred to as the “gentle giant” due to its massive size, but gentle nature. The males can weigh up to 120 pounds and stand as tall as 26 inches at the shoulder, while females typically reach a weight of around 90-100 pounds and a height of 24 inches.
The Rafeiro do Alentejo’s coat is short-haired and usually fawn in color with markings on the head, chest, and extremities. Their ears are long and floppy, adding to their adorable appearance.
As mentioned earlier, one of the defining characteristics of this breed is its loyalty and protective instincts. They make excellent companions for families with children because they are patient, gentle, and loving.
The Rafeiro do Alentejo is also known for being quiet dogs. They don’t bark much, which makes them a great fit for families who live in urban areas or have noise restrictions.
This breed requires regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. Daily walks and playtime are essential, but they can adapt to living in apartments as long as they receive sufficient physical activity.
The Rafeiro do Alentejo is generally a healthy breed, but like all large breeds, they can be prone to certain health issues such as hip dysplasia and allergies. Responsible breeding practices can help minimize these risks.
Overall, the Rafeiro do Alentejo makes an excellent companion for families who are looking for a loyal and loving dog that will be by their side for years to come.
Grooming and Health
Daily Care and Grooming Needs
The Rafeiro do Alentejo is a large-sized dog breed that requires regular daily care and grooming to maintain its health, hygiene, and overall well-being.
Daily Grooming Needs:
Grooming sessions should be done twice a week for this breed, with longer sessions during shedding season (spring and fall)
Clean the ears weekly to prevent infections and wax buildup
The eyes should also be checked daily for any signs of redness or discharge, and cleaned gently as needed
Nail trimming is necessary every 4-6 weeks, or when the nails start to show wear
Bathing is only required every 2-3 months, unless the dog gets dirty
Daily Exercise Needs:
The Rafeiro do Alentejo requires at least one hour of daily exercise to maintain its physical and mental health
A combination of walks, runs, or playtime in the yard can meet this requirement
As a large breed, they also need regular breaks for rest and water intake
Dietary Needs:
The Rafeiro do Alentejo is an omnivorous breed with high energy needs
A balanced diet that includes a mix of protein, fat, carbohydrates, and essential vitamins and minerals should be provided
Feed the dog 3-4% of its body weight per day, divided into two meals if possible
Health Considerations:
The Rafeiro do Alentejo is generally a healthy breed with an average lifespan of 10-12 years
Regular veterinary check-ups are necessary to monitor the dog’s health and detect any potential issues early on
Hip dysplasia, bloat, and certain eye problems can affect this breed if not properly cared for
In conclusion, daily care and grooming needs of the Rafeiro do Alentejo dog breed require attention to its physical health, hygiene, and overall well-being.
The Rafeiro do Alentejo requires regular exercise and grooming to prevent matting and tangling of its coat.
The Rafeiro do Alentejo, also known as the Portuguese Mastiff, is a large and powerful dog breed that requires regular exercise and grooming to prevent matting and tangling of its coat.
The Rafeiro do Alentejo has a short, smooth coat that is straight and dense, but it can be prone to matting and tangling if not properly groomed. To prevent this, the breed requires regular brushing, ideally 2-3 times a week, with a firm-bristled brush or a slicker brush.
When grooming the Rafeiro do Alentejo, it is essential to focus on areas prone to matting and tangling, such as the armpits, behind the ears, and around the tail. Regular nail trimming, ear cleaning, and dental care are also crucial for maintaining the overall health and cleanliness of the breed.
In addition to grooming, the Rafeiro do Alentejo requires regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. The breed needs at least 1-2 hours of exercise per day, which can include walks, runs, playtime, or training sessions.
The ideal exercise routine for the Rafeiro do Alentejo should include a combination of physical activity and mental stimulation. For example:
Daily walks (30 minutes to 1 hour)
Playtime in a secure area (e.g., yard or park) (30 minutes to 1 hour)
Training sessions (30 minutes to 1 hour, several times a week)
Socialization with other dogs and people (regularly)
Adequate exercise will help prevent common health issues in the Rafeiro do Alentejo breed, such as joint problems, obesity, and heart disease.
In summary, regular grooming and exercise are essential for maintaining the overall health and well-being of the Rafeiro do Alentejo. With proper care, this majestic dog can thrive and become a beloved companion for many years to come.
Common Health Issues
The Rafeiro do Alentejo is a large-sized dog breed that originated from Portugal, specifically in the Alentejo region. This breed is known for its distinctive characteristics and robust build, making it an excellent companion for those who value loyalty and protection.
The health issues that affect the Rafeiro do Alentejo breed are quite common among large breeds. One of the primary concerns is hip dysplasia, a condition where the hip joint does not develop properly, leading to arthritis and mobility issues in older dogs.
Another health concern for this breed is elbow dysplasia, which is similar to hip dysplasia but affects the joints in the elbows. This can cause pain and stiffness in the front legs, making it difficult for the dog to walk or engage in physical activities.
Dilated cardiomyopathy, a condition where the heart becomes enlarged and unable to pump blood efficiently, is another common health issue affecting Rafeiro do Alentejo dogs. This can lead to heart failure if left untreated, which can be fatal.
Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) is also prevalent in this breed. OCD occurs when a piece of cartilage becomes detached from the bone, causing pain and stiffness in the joints. While it’s not life-threatening, it can cause significant discomfort for the dog.
Additionally, the Rafeiro do Alentejo breed is prone to eye issues such as cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy. Cataracts are cloudy formations on the lens of the eye that impair vision, while progressive retinal atrophy is a degenerative condition that causes blindness in older dogs.
It’s essential for Rafeiro do Alentejo owners to maintain regular veterinary check-ups and follow proper care guidelines to prevent or manage these health issues. A balanced diet, regular exercise, and monitoring for signs of illness can help ensure the overall well-being of this majestic breed.
By understanding the common health concerns that affect the Rafeiro do Alentejo breed, owners can take proactive steps in ensuring their dogs live long, happy lives filled with love, loyalty, and protection.
This breed can be prone to hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and gastric dilatationvolvulus (GDV).
The Rafeiro do Alentejo, also known as the Alentejo Mastiff, is a large and powerful dog breed that originated in Portugal. This breed is known for its distinctive appearance, with males weighing between 90-180 pounds and standing between 26-30 inches tall at the shoulder.
However, despite their impressive size and strength, the Rafeiro do Alentejo can be prone to certain health issues. One of the most significant concerns is hip dysplasia, a condition in which the hip joint does not form properly, leading to arthritis and mobility problems.
Elbow dysplasia is another potential issue for this breed, with some Rafeiro do Alentejos experiencing pain and limited mobility due to worn or damaged elbow joints.
Gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), also known as bloat, is a life-threatening condition that occurs when the stomach twists and fills with gas. This can happen suddenly and can be fatal if not treated promptly and properly.
It’s essential for breeders to prioritize health testing and take steps to minimize the risk of these conditions in their breeding stock. Responsible ownership and regular veterinary care can also help prevent or manage these issues in individual dogs.
Due to the potential health risks associated with hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and GDV, it’s crucial for potential owners to do their research and understand the breed-specific needs and challenges before deciding to bring a Rafeiro do Alentejo into their family.
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