Is the Rafeiro do Alentejo a good breed for inexperienced dog owners to own?

Answer 1

This breed is extremely territorial and would protect everything it deems under its control. The dog would protect the livestock, the home and most especially the family. These dogs are wary and suspicious of strangers. The distinctive low and deep toned barking of the dog that can be heard from a distance, the corpulent body not to mention the powerful jaws would surely deter an intruder. The Rafeiro do Alentejo however, can be considered as a dog of defense and not an attacker as it has a peaceful demeanor. These dogs are distrustful of strangers but surprisingly they are gentle and docile with the children. Some dog owners consider the Rafeiro do Alentejo to be "too much of a dog". The dog is highly intelligent and if socialization and obedience training is done while the dog is still young, efforts will be repaid as the dog will develop into an excellent home companion. However, a Rafeiro do Alentejo that is not trained can be quite a handful given that the dog is dominant, willful and hard headed. Extensive and consistent training is necessary otherwise the dog will grow into one that is hard to control. A less than authoritative owner would find it hard to dominate the dog. The dog should look up to the owner as its leader and this will only happen if the owner is dog experienced and able to handle the strong temperament of the dog. Training this dog can be a challenge as this is one of the dogs that abhor useless tricks. Training must also be done in a motivational manner. The dog is sensitive and reprimands will undo what was already learned. This is NOT a breed for inexperienced owners.