Rafeiro of Alentejo

FCI 96 - Molossoid . Mountain

The Rafeiro of Alentejo (Alentejo Mastiff), as the name reflects, comes from the Portuguese region of Alentejo, extending south of the Tagus River to the Algarve. The pedigree dog, that within the FCI belongs to the Group 2 (Molossoid), Mountain Dogs subsection, has a long history as a herding dog. Although little is known about the exact origin of this rare breed, their parents are supposed to be found in the molossian dogs of the Middle East. The Estrela Mountain Dog (Star Mountain Dog), also from portugal, was probably also involved in its origin.

In the Alentejo lowlands, shepherds used the Rafeiro of Alentejo to herd and drive cattle. It also, the intrepid four-legged friend protected the flock entrusted to him by reliably avoiding attacks by wild animals or rustlers. Especially at night the Rafeiro of Alentejo defended his flock to the blood. The wealthy large landowners appreciated the imposing dog not only as a vigilant protector, but also as a status symbol of strength and power.

As industrialization advanced and the large latifundia decreased, the rafeiro it got weirder. In the early 20th century, dogs of this type were almost extinct. But, a small circle of enthusiasts ensured that the breed was preserved. In 1940 a first breed standard was established. 14 years later, the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) finally recognized the breed.

When the Rafeiro of Alentejo, cattle thieves and wild animals quickly flee: Who would want to mess with such a big and powerful dog?

With a height at the withers of up to 76 cm and a weight of approximately 50 kg, the Portuguese breed dog has a very striking appearance. His massive head and strong, muscular body give a defensive impression.. Look calmly at your opponent with small brown eyes, between which there is a slight groove, but nothing escapes your watchful eye.

Despite its bulky shape and somewhat heavy and slow gait, the body of the Rafeiro of Alentejo seems to be rather long than wide. The neck offers a good transition to the shoulder, the back is straight. The tail is well furnished and thickened at the base, rather low and forms a slight upward curve when excited. In rest position it reaches to the hock. Ears of the Rafeiro they are medium in size and fall to one side when folded.

The dense and smooth coat of the Portuguese Sheepdog is short to medium length and has abundant undercoat, giving you reliable protection in all weather conditions. The Rafeiro of Alentejo it is available in black, gray wolf, leonado or yellow with or without white spots. A white base color with yellow spots is also allowed., as well as brindle specimens according to the breed standard.

At night, the Rafeiro of Alentejo he is in his best moment: nothing escapes your watchful eye, his good sense of smell and his excellent ears. Anyone who dares to enter their territory is captured without notice and, if required, wholesale. Pastors who have a Rafeiro they no longer have to fear rustlers or poachers.

Like a purebred dog, whose sole task is to accompany and protect his family, the Portuguese breed dog is completely unsuitable. Although he is faithful and loyal to his family, his innate sharpness is difficult to control even with consistent upbringing. After all, the intelligent and self-confident Rafeiro of Alentejo has always been used to working and acting independently. But, the will to subordinate and obedience are not among its strong points.

Who wants to keep a Rafeiro of Alentejo You must be able to offer him a large territory in which his watchful and protective instinct can live according to his mood. This does not mean, of course, that one should just let this dog go. A responsible owner socializes and educates his dog from the beginning. Shows you clearly who holds the reins in your hand and where your limits are. At the same time, he also accepts that his four-legged friend needs his freedom. The Rafeiro will never become a “good lap dog”.

Those interested in a Rafeiro of Alentejo Purebreds sometimes have to go a long way to find a suitable breeder. But, people who want to buy this dog on a whim, should refrain from buying it. The Rafeiro it is and continues to be an excellent herd dog and should be kept in that context. Who wants to make it a suitable companion dog for the family, You are not doing yourself or the dog any favors..

The typical diseases of the breed are hardly known due to the low propagation of the breed. The Rafeiro it is a very robust dog whose life expectancy is comparatively high, of 12 to 14 years. But, like all dogs of their size and format, You may also have joint problems such as hip joint dysplasia or elbow dysplasia.

In principle, this breed has no specific dietary needs. But, a balanced and healthy diet is, of course, also important for this dog – also or especially regarding possible joint problems. So, following the high energy puppy diet, a fairly low protein food should be given first to prevent the young dog from growing too quickly. In the adult dog, the energy value of the food can increase again. Now, fresh meat, through which the necessary amount of animal protein is absorbed, should mainly fill the feeding bowl. Fresh vegetables and rice are suitable as a healthy garnish. Fish can be given as an alternative to meat.

Coexistence is important that you have with your new friend. Before considering the acquisition of a dog of the breed "Rafeiro of Alentejo" you know certain factors. Not all breeds of dogs are apt to live in an apartment, you must take into account his character, their need for exercise, their interaction with other pets, their care and if you have small children, their level of tolerance towards them.

• FCI CLASSIFICATION: 96
• Group 2: Pinscher and Schnauzer - Molossoid and Swiss Mountain and Cattledogs
• Section 2.2: Molossoid, mountain type. Without working trial..

Federations:

• – FCI – Pinscher and Schnauzer-Molossoid type dogs – Swiss Mountain Dogs and Cattledogs. Section 2.2 Molossoid, mountain type. ⓘ
• – AKC – FSS ⓘ
• – UKC – Watchdog ⓘ

FCI - Rafeiro of Alentejo

1. Rafeiro do Alentejo, Alentejo-Mastiff, alentejo mastiff (English).
2. mâtin de l’Alentejo, mastiff de l’Alentejo (French).
3. Rafeiro do Alentejo, Rafeiro, Alentejo-Mastiff (German).
4. Mastim Português, Mastim do Alentejo (Portuguese).
5. Mastín del Alentejo (español).

Photos:

1 – Rafeiro of Alentejo by https://brit-petfood.com/hr/node/8006