Rafeiro do Alentejo Size, Weight, Colors and Appearance
A Rafeiro do Alentejo is a substantial dog, with a broad head and strong limbs. The dense coat and relatively plain outline can make it easy to mistake for another large farm dog, especially in a photograph without scale.
Adult height and weight by sex
The FCI and Portuguese Kennel Club publish the following ranges:
| Adult | Shoulder height | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Male | 66–74 cm, about 26–29 in | 45–60 kg, about 99–132 lb |
| Female | 64–70 cm, about 25–28 in | 35–50 kg, about 77–110 lb |
The imperial numbers are rounded conversions. The male and female ranges overlap, so meet the individual adult or ask about a puppy’s parents when planning transport, equipment and handling.
Body proportions
The standard describes a strong, well-muscled dog with a rectangular outline. Its body is slightly longer than it is tall. The chest is broad, the limbs have substance, and the adult should look capable of moving comfortably.
The standard lists poor condition and obesity as faults.
For everyday assessment, watch the dog walk and turn on level ground. If you notice discomfort, difficulty rising, limping or an uneven gait, ask a veterinarian. The health guide covers hip dysplasia and changes in mobility.
Head, ears, eyes and tail
The head is broad and substantial, with a muzzle shorter than the skull but still wide enough to look proportionate. The nose is black. The standard calls for brown eyes and a calm expression. These features produce a different impression from a narrow-headed herding dog or a very short-faced mastiff.
The ears are small relative to the dog, triangular, folded and hanging. The neck has a proportionate single dewlap. The tail is long and naturally reaches at least the hock when hanging. It may rise in action; a tightly curled resting tail is not the intended outline.
The comparison guides describe the features of similar guardian breeds.
Coat length and accepted colors
The FCI coat is thick, straight and dense, short to medium in length; the standard prefers medium length.
Accepted colors include black, wolf gray, fawn and yellow, with or without brindling, accompanied by white markings. A white dog with patches in those colors also fits the description.
Ask about temperament, health records and upbringing as well as coat color.
The dense coat sheds and needs routine care. The grooming guide covers brushing and handling; the allergy article explains dog allergens.
Puppy growth
Record your puppy’s weight during growth and ask about the adult size of its parents and close relatives.
Ask a veterinarian to assess growth and body condition during regular visits, and discuss changes in weight, feeding and activity.
Buy adjustable equipment where appropriate, check the fit as the puppy grows, and make sure it cannot slip out of a harness. The puppy guide covers preparation.
Plan the space the adult will occupy
A bed should let the adult dog lie on its side without folding around furniture. The car needs a suitable secured transport arrangement. Gates and interior barriers need to work when the dog reaches its adult height and strength.
Measure the dog’s chest and neck when buying a harness, and follow the manufacturer’s sizing instructions rather than a giant label. Check that the dog can turn comfortably, breathe normally and move without straps rubbing.
For illness and old age, check whether a suitable ramp or another adult’s assistance is available if the dog cannot jump into your vehicle, and provide secure footing on the route to its bed.