Rafeiro Do Alentejo

Dog Breed Profile

Rafeiro Do Alentejo History

The Rafeiro Do Alentejo is a medium-sized Portuguese sheepdog that originated in the Alentejo region of Portugal. The Rafeiro Do Alentejo is a working-type herding and guardian dog. The Rafeiro Do Alentejo was originally called the Cão de Lombos, which means “herding dog” in Portuguese. The Rafeiro Do Alentejo was officially recognized by the United Kennel Club in 2004. The Rafeiro Do Alentejo is a medium-sized, long-haired, rough-coated, white or cream-colored, and stocky Portuguese sheepdog. The male is usually larger than the female.

Time of Origin

Unknown

Country of Origin

Portugal

Ancestry

Mastiff

Rafeiro Do Alentejo Physical Characteristics

The Rafeiro Do Alentejo, or RDA, is a medium-sized, hound-like scenthound breed that originated in Portugal. They weigh between 40 and 60 pounds and stand between 23 and 26 inches at the withers. The RDA has a typical hound snout, hanging ears, and long, low-set legs. Their coats are short and coarse, and come in shades of red, fawn, or brindle.

Eye Colors

Brown

Nose Colors

Black

Coat Colors

Pied, Brindle, Fawn, Gray, Black

Height Range

Male Height Range: 26 – 29 inches

Female Height Range: 25 – 28 inches

Weight Range

Male Weight Range: 88 – 110 lbs

Female Weight Range: 77 – 99 lbs

Rafeiro Do Alentejo Health

Description of breed health.

Lifespan

12-14 yrs

Rafeiro Do Alentejo Health Concerns

Usually Very Healthy, Hip Dysplasia

Rafeiro Do Alentejo Temperament and Behaviour

The Rafeiro Do Alentejo is an energetic and hardworking breed of Portuguese hunting dog. They are very active, energetic, and athletic, but also possess a strong desire for play. They are very intelligent, so they can be trained to do a variety of tasks. They are assertive and brave, but are also very protective of their families and are wary of strangers.

Rafeiro Do Alentejo Activity Requirements

The Rafeiro do Alentejo is a large, strong, herding dog that originated in Portugal. They are still used for herding today, but they are also popular companions and family pets. The Rafeiro do Alentejo is not an extremely active dog, but they do require regular exercise. They are best suited to homes with yards where they can run around and get a good amount of exercise. If you are thinking about getting a Rafeiro do Alentejo, be sure to do your research on the specific personality traits of the particular dog you are interested in. Due to their size and natural herding instinct, it is important to socialize and train your Rafeiro do Alentejo early.