The Rafeiro Do Alentejo is also known as the breed with a smooth Portuguese name. Ronaldo, Alejandro, no people, this is the age of the Rafeiro Do Alentejo. It’s a big dog, with enough strength and power to be an efficient guard-dog.
But, unfortunately, this strength also makes it a liability around other pets and other humans. The next few paragraphs will tell you what this dog is all about.
Rafeiro Do Alentejo History
The history of the Rafeiro Do Alentejo remains shrouded in mystery. We don’t know when it came into being or how. Numerous theories have been put forward in recent years, attempting to explain its origins. One such theory placed its ancestors as the ancient dogs from Tibet. However, we do know for certain that this dog made a place for itself by farmers’ sides.
Their supreme size and fearsome nature meant it could fight off any threat. The breed followed a cyclic nomadic lifestyle initially. The main regions back then for this breed were Alentejo and Douro. So you probably get why it was named Rafeiro Do Alentejo. The breed nearly died out due to a lack of interest by the 1970s. Fortunately, it was saved. It made a comeback by the end of the century and was accepted by the AKC in 2006.
Rafeiro Do Alentejo Characteristics
First of all, the Rafeiro Do Alentejo is a massive dog. It has a lot of muscles and bone density. It could fight a lion if it wanted to. Second, the Rafeiro Do Alentejo is also charmingly adorable. The coat of the Rafeiro Do Alentejo is commonly medium length. Colors for the coat vary between Brindle, Fawn, Black, Gray, and Pied. The Rafeiro Do Alentejo has ears that usually drop to the side of its head. The eyes of the Rafeiro Do Alentejo are round and expressive.
How Big do Rafeiro Do Alentejo Get
The Rafeiro Do Alentejo is a giant dog. The male Rafeiro Do Alentejo will usually be 26 to 29 inches tall. The weight range for the make Rafeiro Do Alentejo is 88 to 110 lbs. The female Rafeiro Do Alentejo will usually be 25 to 28 inches tall. The appropriate weight range for female Rafeiro Do Alentejos is 77 to 99 lbs. The weight will have to be kept within the appropriate range. You can control its weight through diet and exercise.
How Long Does Rafeiro Do Alentejo Live
The average lifespan of the Rafeiro Do Alentejo is close to 12 years. It is surprisingly low for pure breeds, but it is what it is. The lifespan of the Rafeiro Do Alentejo can be maintained quite easily with the right diet. The right exercise will also expand its lifespan considerably. The “Health” and “Diet” sections will help in keeping its lifespan expanded.
How Much Does a Rafeiro Do Alentejo Cost
There isn’t a definite price for the Rafeiro Do Alentejo. The reason for that is its rarity; it doesn’t have a strong market. According to some analysts, the Rafeiro Do Alentejo will cost you close to 900 dollars. However, the Rafeiro Do Alentejo may cost you more than 1000 dollars if the Rafeiro Do Alentejo has exceptional health and lineage.
Rafeiro Do Alentejo Temperament/Personality
You have to understand that the Rafeiro Do Alentejo is a breed meant for efficient guarding. It’s natural for it to be suspicious and aggressive towards strangers and other animals. It is loyal and extremely protective of its family. Children need to be supervised around this dog. It is one of the best guard dogs.
Training it isn’t for first-timers. If you are a person with no prior experience, then forget about getting the Rafeiro Do Alentejo. You won’t be able to manage. It is a thick-header, stubborn dog. You need true experience to train this dog. You need to be in command and considerate. It’s like trying to keep a flame inside a block of ice. No book can prepare you for the training that the Rafeiro Do Alentejo needs.
Caring for Rafeiro Do Alentejo
As the fated companion of the Rafeiro Do Alentejo, it is your responsibility to understand what your doggie needs. This section will highlight all of that information. So please pay attention and take a few notes if you have to.
Rafeiro Do Alentejo Nutrition
The Rafeiro Do Alentejo is a big dog that will need a lot of food. Giving it at least three cups of food is a necessity. You will have to keep things like Chocolate and Garlic away from this doggie’s diet. Both of these are practically poisonous to your doggie. Being careful about its diet is highly recommended.
How to Groom a Rafeiro Do Alentejo
Grooming the Rafeiro Do Alentejo isn’t for the faint-hearted. First of all, brushing it could become slightly taxing. Imagine brushing a goliath like it at least four times per week. However, brushing its coat is the only major problematic part. It doesn’t frequent baths. One bathe per month should be more than enough. Next, its nails need to be trimmed about three weeks later. Finally, the teeth have to be brushed frequently. However, it rarely takes more than five minutes to brush its teeth.
Rafeiro Do Alentejo Activity Levels
The Rafeiro Do Alentejo isn’t a dog that will stay put. Even though it is considered a moderately active dog in its size category, it could still be a bit overwhelming for you. In addition, not everyone can devote an hour of their day to the Rafeiro Do Alentejo’s exercise. In cases like these, the use of a Dog Treadmill helps. It will reduce the outdoor time of the doggie and make it more peaceful. You should also get some Puzzle Toys for Dogs to keep your doggie engaged mentally.
Caring for Rafeiro Do Alentejo
Certain things will become more problematic with age. Creaking joints and weak bones aren’t that good for the Rafeiro Do Alentejo’s health. At an age like that, mobility for your doggie becomes increasingly difficult. You can try to make things a bit easier for it. For starters, the use of a Dog Ramp is highly recommended. The use of Dog Joint Supplement is also highly recommended. You know that your doggie deserves this reprieve from the woes of old age.
Rafeiro Do Alentejo Health
The Rafeiro Do Alentejo is a generally healthy dog. It’s rarely affected by any crippling conditions. Joint problems are the worst concerns that you should be having. Skin problems are also a possibility, but Coconut Oil for Dogs should be enough to take care of that. Coconut oil is also effective against digestive problems and fungi developments. However, overfeeding it coconut oil will lead to certain side effects. Your dog could get diarrhea or indigestion (Quite Ironic, isn’t it?).
Apart from this, you should visit the vet’s office at least once per month. If there are any hidden conditions, then only the vet can help you. So it’s best to stay on your guard.
Breeds Similar to Rafeiro Do Alentejo
Best Dog Food for Rafeiro Do Alentejos
The best dog food for Rafeiro Do Alentejo is Hill’s Science Diet Adult Large Breed Chicken & Barley Recipe Dry Dog Food. This dog food has wholesome ingredients that make it super healthy and delicious for your pal.
- Equipped with chondroitin and glucosamine for healthy joints and cartilage.
- Includes vitamin C, E, and antioxidants for stronger immunity.
- Omega fatty acids nourish coat and skin.
Best Puppy Food for Rafeiro Do Alentejos
The best puppy food for Rafeiro Do Alentejo is Purina Pro Plan Puppy Large Breed Chicken & Rice Formula with Probiotics Dry Dog Food. This food supports a good amount of protein for the better muscles of your pup.
- Live probiotics support immunity and digestion.
- Includes DHA for improving vision and cognition.
- Support great taste.
Best Dog Crate for Rafeiro Do Alentejos
The best dog crate for Rafeiro Do Alentejo is Paws & Pals Oxgord Double Door Collapsible Wire, Dog Crate. This crate has a strong and sturdy structure that makes it a secure home for your dog.
- High-tensile strength makes it durable.
- Easy to clean with ABS plastic tray.
- Divider panel for size adjustment.
Best Dog Bed for Rafeiro Do Alentejos
The best dog bed for Rafeiro Do Alentejo is FurHaven NAP Ultra Plush Orthopedic Deluxe Cat & Dog Bed w/Removable Cover. This bed has an orthopedic design that makes it comfy and soft.
- Easy to get on with the step-on design.
- Distributes weight.
- Washable core and cover.
Best Dog Harness for Rafeiro Do Alentejos
The best dog harness for Rafeiro Do Alentejo is OneTigris Tactical Vest Nylon Front Clip Dog Harness. This harness is super durable, strong, and lightweight. It has a water-resistant design that adds to its comfort.
- Better fitting with adjustable straps.
- Carry supplies and gear with mole pouches.
- Provides higher control with a control loop.
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