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Rafeiro Do Alentejo vs Schipese Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Mutt of Alentejo or Shipese?

Compare the Rafeiro Do Alentejo and Schipese breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a Mutt of Alentejo or a Shipese? Read on to determine which breed is the better fit for you

Other names

Mutt of Alentejo, Portuguese Mastiff, Alentejo Mastiff
Shipese

Weight

What is the average weight of Rafeiro Do Alentejo and Schipese?
99.0 pounds ( 45 kg )
10.0 pounds ( 5 kg )

Height

What is the average height of Rafeiro Do Alentejo and Schipese
27.5 inches ( 69.9 cm )
10.5 inches ( 26.7 cm )

Hypoallergenic

Are Rafeiro Do Alentejos or Schipeses hypoallergenic, or neither?

No

Unfortunately, neither Rafeiro Do Alentejo nor Schipese are hypoallergenic, which may not make them the best choice for dog lovers who suffer from pet allergies.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Rafeiro Do Alentejo and Schipese dogs?
Calm
Protective
Sober
Independent
Selfish
Confidence
Territorial

Active
Curious
Playful
Independent
Agile
Intelligent
Confident
Responsive
Docile
Gentle
Tempered
Sweet
Fearless
Faithful
Easygoing

Shedding Level

Do Rafeiro Do Alentejos shed more than Schipeses, or which breed sheds more, Rafeiro Do Alentejos or Schipeses?

Rafeiro Do Alentejos are moderate shedders, but regular brushing can reduce shedding and maintain coat health.

Schipeses are low shedding dogs, requiring minimal coat care.

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Rafeiro Do Alentejo or Schipese?

Choose a Rafeiro Do Alentejo if you want a top-notch watchdog. This breed takes guarding seriously, and may not require much training, though obedience or guard dog training can improve their skills.

Avoid Schipeses as watchdogs - they're not effective.

Ancestry

What are the origins of Rafeiro Do Alentejo and Schipese breeds?
Mastiff-Type

Maltese and Schipperke

Date of Birth

When were Rafeiro Do Alentejo and Schipese breeds first developed?
Unknown

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Rafeiro Do Alentejo and Schipese dogs?
Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Rafeiro Do Alentejo and Schipese?
Black

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Rafeiro Do Alentejo and Schipese breeds?
Pied
Brindle
Fawn
Gray
Black

Black
White

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Rafeiro Do Alentejo and Schipese breeds?

Rafeiro Do Alentejos have medium-length coats.

Schipeses have longer coats compared to most dogs.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Rafeiro Do Alentejo and Schipese?

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Rafeiro Do Alentejo and Schipese?
Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Rafeiro Do Alentejo and Schipese?

10-12 puppies per pregnancy

A Rafeiro Do Alentejo can have a litter of 10-12 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

3-7 puppies per pregnancy

A Schipese can have a litter of 3-7 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

Rafeiro Do Alentejos have average adaptability to changes in lifestyle and living environments compared to other breeds.

Schipeses are highly adaptable and versatile, making them excellent companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

Health Issues

Between Rafeiro Do Alentejo and Schipese, which breed is more prone to health problems?

Rafeiro Do Alentejos are susceptible to health issues like all breeds, so it's important to monitor their health and seek veterinary care when needed.

While the Schipese breed is generally healthy, occasional vet check-ups are still necessary to address any health concerns.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Rafeiro Do Alentejo and Schipese breeds?
Usually Very Healthy

Distichiasis
Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA)
Dental Problems

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Rafeiro Do Alentejo and Schipese?
Hip Dysplasia

Entropion
Ectropion
Portacaval Shunt
Hypoglycemia
Hypothyroidism
Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease
Shaker Dog Syndrome
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Rafeiro Do Alentejo and Schipese breeds?
X-Rays
General Physical Examination
OFA on hips and elbows

Eye Examinations
BAER Testing
Blood Sugar and Thyroid Tests
X-rays or other radiographic imaging

Energy

How do the energy levels of Rafeiro Do Alentejos and Schipeses compare?

Rafeiro Do Alentejos are a good choice for a low-key lifestyle due to their low energy levels.

Schipeses are suitable for those with a balanced lifestyle as they have an average energy level.

Social Needs

Rafeiro Do Alentejo vs Schipese social needs comparison

Rafeiro Do Alentejo has very high social needs and requires regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship.

Schipese has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.

Exercise Needed

Rafeiro Do Alentejo vs Schipese exercise need comparison.

The Rafeiro Do Alentejo and Schipese breeds are breeds that require minimal physical activity to maintain a healthy lifestyle. They are ideal for people with busy lifestyles, elderly people or those who have limited mobility. They also make great pets for those who live in small apartments or have limited outdoor space.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Rafeiro Do Alentejo or Schipese?

Rafeiro Do Alentejos are known for their relaxed and calm nature and enjoy long periods of sleep.

Schipeses sleep less than other breeds but still need adequate sleep for good health.

Tendency to Bark

Do Rafeiro Do Alentejos or Schipeses bark more/less frequently?

Compared to most other breeds, Rafeiro Do Alentejo and Schipese tend to be less vocal and bark less frequently. They typically only bark when necessary, such as to communicate or alert their owner, and do not bark excessively, especially when left alone.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Rafeiro Do Alentejo vs Schipese?

Roaming urge

Rafeiro Do Alentejo vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

Rafeiro Do Alentejo or Schipese - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Rafeiro Do Alentejos or Schipeses?

Medium

Both Rafeiro Do Alentejo and Schipese are medium-energy dogs that enjoy socializing and playing with other dogs. They may engage in casual or sustained games of chase, and occasionally have bursts of barking or racing around the house.

Tolerance of being left alone

Walks per Week

How many miles should Rafeiro Do Alentejo or Schipese walk each week?

10 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Rafeiro Do Alentejo, it's at least 10 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

5 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Schipese, it's at least 5 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Rafeiro Do Alentejos or Schipeses require more exercise?

60 minutes

In general most Rafeiro Do Alentejos usually need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

40 minutes

In general most Schipeses usually need at least 40 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Rafeiro Do Alentejos or Schipeses?

The Rafeiro Do Alentejo has low grooming needs and is easy to maintain.

The Schipese requires an average amount of grooming compared to other breeds.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Rafeiro Do Alentejo and Schipese dogs?

Weekly

Rafeiro Do Alentejo should be brushed at least once a week. Of course you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot

Daily

Ideally, Schipese should be brushed at least 2 or 3 times a week (preferably daily) improve shedding.

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Rafeiro Do Alentejos and Schipeses?
Pin Brush
Comb
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Comb
Scissors
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Rafeiro Do Alentejo or Schipese in cups?

3 cups

For an average 88-110 pound (40 - 50 kg) Rafeiro Do Alentejo feed 3 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

1 cups

For an average 8-12 pound (4 - 5 kg) Schipese feed 1 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, Rafeiro Do Alentejo or Schipese?

$2.10 - $2.70 / day

The average cost of a Rafeiro Do Alentejo is somewhere $2.10 - $2.70 per day.

$1.10 - $1.40 / day

The average cost of a Schipese is somewhere $1.10 - $1.40 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Rafeiro Do Alentejo or Schipese?

$55 - $73 / month

The average per month expenses of a Rafeiro Do Alentejo is between $55 - $73. This makes an average of $660 - $876 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

$35 - $42 / month

The average per month expenses of a Schipese is between $35 - $42. This makes an average of $420 - $504 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

Intelligence

Comparing Intelligence: Rafeiro Do Alentejos vs Schipeses

Rafeiro Do Alentejo and Schipese have average obedience intelligence, but they're also independent thinkers. This breed is known for having an exceptionally high IQ, which means they may get into trouble if left to their own devices.

Sensitivity Level

How do Rafeiro Do Alentejo and Schipese compare in sensitivity?

This breed is sensitive to its environment and best suited for patient and understanding families with a consistent routine.

This breed is sensitive and requires gentle handling and a calm home environment.

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Rafeiro Do Alentejo vs Schipese?

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Rafeiro Do Alentejo or Schipese?

The Rafeiro Do Alentejo is not suitable for apartments and requires a large yard to thrive. Pent-up energy in small spaces can lead to destructive behavior.

The Schipese is a great apartment dog, thriving with sufficient exercise and time outside as part of their daily routine.

Child Friendly

Do Rafeiro Do Alentejos or Schipeses have a friendlier temperament towards children?

Rafeiro Do Alentejo and Schipese are kid-friendly dogs. They are good with children and excellent dogs with children if they are socialized and trained at a young age.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Rafeiro Do Alentejo or Schipese?

Cat Friendly

Do Rafeiro Do Alentejo or Schipese breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

Rafeiro Do Alentejos are somewhat cat friendly and can be trained to get along with cats.

Schipeses are very friendly with cats and make great companions for them.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Rafeiro Do Alentejo or Schipese?

Rafeiro Do Alentejos are less friendly towards other dogs, but can improve with socialization.

Schipeses are friendly and active companions, and can be good family pets, though their friendliness towards other dogs may vary.

Pet friendly

How do Rafeiro Do Alentejo or Schipese dogs interact with other pets?

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Rafeiro Do Alentejo or Schipese?

Rafeiro Do Alentejos are not very stranger friendly.

Schipeses are friendly but may bark at strangers, and training is easy due to their intelligence.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Rafeiro Do Alentejo and Schipese?

Rafeiro Do Alentejos are not very fond of playing and prefer other activities.

Schipeses are a playful breed that needs daily playtime to be happy.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Rafeiro Do Alentejos and Schipeses compare?

Rafeiro Do Alentejos can be difficult to train and require consistent and patient training.

Schipeses are usually easy to train but require consistency to fully obey commands.

Common match-ups