Alentejo Mastiff

The Rafeiro do Alentejo breed is not recommended for first time dog owners. They are extremely territorial of their home, family, and anything or anyone placed under their protection. The Rafeiro do Alentejo is affectionate with their family, but highly suspicious of strangers. They typically get along with other pets they have been raised with. Rafeiro do Alentejo's do well with children as they are a calm, docile, and steadfast breed.

It is believed to descend from molosser dogs from the Middle East. On account of their size and courage they were used by tribes whose livelihood depended on livestock husbandry, thus performing a crucial role for this type of community.

With the beginning of the transhumance, which implies temporary displacement of large flocks, it was noticed that they were exposed to many dangers during their long journeys. On their route to the mountains in the summer and back to the plains in the winter, flocks were always accompanied by large dogs, which lead to the latter being spread along the route from region to region. Thus is explained the appearance of this powerful dog, in the Alentejo plains, which has been called Rafeiro do Alentejo since the end of the 19th century.

The Rafeiro do Alentejo does not require much exercise. However, they are not recommended for apartment living. This breed does best with a large securely fenced yard or rural setting.

The Rafeiro do Alentejo requires very minimal grooming. The coat must have thorough brushing during their seasonal heavy shedding. Due to the rarity of this breed they are relatively healthy, although hip dysplasia may occur.