Rafeiro Do Alentejo vs Shih Apso Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Mutt of Alentejo or Shihapso?
Compare the Rafeiro Do Alentejo and Shih Apso breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a Mutt of Alentejo or a Shihapso? Read on to determine which breed is the better fit for you
Other names
Mutt of Alentejo, Portuguese Mastiff, Alentejo Mastiff
What is the average weight of Rafeiro Do Alentejo and Shih Apso?
99.0 pounds
( 45 kg )
16.5 pounds
( 7 kg )
Height
What is the average height of Rafeiro Do Alentejo and Shih Apso
27.5 inches
( 69.9 cm )
10.5 inches
( 26.7 cm )
Hypoallergenic
Are Rafeiro Do Alentejos or Shih Apsos hypoallergenic, or neither?
No
Unfortunately, neither Rafeiro Do Alentejo nor Shih Apso 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 Shih Apso dogs?
Do Rafeiro Do Alentejos shed more than Shih Apsos, or which breed sheds more, Rafeiro Do Alentejos or Shih Apsos?
Rafeiro Do Alentejo or Shih Apso dogs are not heavy shedders, but they will lose a significant amount of hair each year. To decrease the amount of shedding, you can regularly brush your Rafeiro Do Alentejo or Shih Apso. This will remove loose hair and keep their coat growing in the same direction.
Watchdog Ability
Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Rafeiro Do Alentejo or Shih Apso?
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 Shih Apsos as watchdogs - they're not effective.
Ancestry
What are the origins of Rafeiro Do Alentejo and Shih Apso breeds?
Mastiff-Type
Lhasa Apso, Shih Tzu
Date of Birth
When were Rafeiro Do Alentejo and Shih Apso breeds first developed?
Unknown
Eye Color Possibilites
What are the eye colors of Rafeiro Do Alentejo and Shih Apso dogs?
Brown
Nose Color Possibilites
What are the natural nose colors of Rafeiro Do Alentejo and Shih Apso?
Black
Coat Length
What is the typical coat length for Rafeiro Do Alentejo and Shih Apso breeds?
Rafeiro Do Alentejos have medium-length coats.
Shih Apsos are known for their coat length.
Coat Density
What is the density of the coat of Rafeiro Do Alentejo and Shih Apso?
Coat Texture
What is the hair texture of Rafeiro Do Alentejo and Shih Apso?
Straight
Wavy
Litter Size
What is the usual litter size for Rafeiro Do Alentejo and Shih Apso?
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.
4-6 puppies per pregnancy
A Shih Apso can have a litter of 4-6 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.
Shih Apsos are highly adaptable and versatile, making them excellent companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.
Health Issues
Between Rafeiro Do Alentejo and Shih Apso, 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 Shih Apso 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 Shih Apso breeds?
Usually Very Healthy
Patellar Luxation Hip Dysplasia Kidney Problems Liver Problems Bladder Stones and Infections
Minor Concerns
What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Rafeiro Do Alentejo and Shih Apso?
What occasional tests are recommended for Rafeiro Do Alentejo and Shih Apso breeds?
X-Rays General Physical Examination OFA on hips and elbows
Wellness Check Chest X-rays Dental and Oral Examinations Clinical Exam Eye and Ear Examination
Energy
How do the energy levels of Rafeiro Do Alentejos and Shih Apsos compare?
Rafeiro Do Alentejo and Shih Apso breeds may be a good choice for those who prefer a more relaxed lifestyle. They tend to have a lower energy level than other breeds of dogs.
Social Needs
Rafeiro Do Alentejo vs Shih Apso social needs comparison
Rafeiro Do Alentejo has very high social needs and requires regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship.
Shih Apso has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.
Exercise Needed
Rafeiro Do Alentejo vs Shih Apso exercise need comparison.
The Rafeiro Do Alentejo and Shih Apso 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 Shih Apso?
Rafeiro Do Alentejos are known for their relaxed and calm nature and enjoy long periods of sleep.
Shih Apsos have moderate energy levels and typical sleep patterns of 12-14 hours per day.
Tendency to Bark
Do Rafeiro Do Alentejos or Shih Apsos bark more/less frequently?
Compared to most other breeds, Rafeiro Do Alentejo and Shih Apso 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 Shih Apso?
Roaming urge
Rafeiro Do Alentejo vs Labrador: Running away tendency?
Prey Drive
Rafeiro Do Alentejo or Shih Apso - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?
Past times
What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Rafeiro Do Alentejo and Shih Apso entertained?
Hug, Walk, Run, Chase, Fetch, Tug-of-war
Walking, Tracking, Nose work, Freestyle, Fetch, Long walks, Loves swimming, Playing Ball, Holidays, Sleeping, Eating Snacks, Toys, Walk, Brushing, Chase, Shake, Walks, family, W, Walks, Dog Parks, Cuddling, Play, Running, Cuddles, Family play, Hiking, Playdate, Shake hands, Discipline, Stay
Activity Level
Which breed has higher energy, Rafeiro Do Alentejos or Shih Apsos?
Medium
Rafeiro Do Alentejos are medium-energy dogs and typically enjoy socializing and playing casual or even sustained games of chase with other dogs. They may also have occasional periods of barking or racing around the house.
Low
Shih Apsos are low-energy dogs. This breed make a great companion for a relatively inactive person. Shih Apso dogs require a few short daily walks, and then they're happy snuggling next to you for the rest of the day.
Tolerance of being left alone
Walks per Week
How many miles should Rafeiro Do Alentejo or Shih Apso 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.
4 miles / week
There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Shih Apso, it's at least 4 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.
Activity per Day
Do Rafeiro Do Alentejos or Shih Apsos 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.
30 minutes
In general most Shih Apsos usually need at least 30 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 Shih Apsos?
The Rafeiro Do Alentejo has low grooming needs and is easy to maintain.
Shih Apsos have high grooming needs, requiring regular trims and professional grooming assistance to keep their coat healthy.
Brushing Frequency
What is the recommended brushing frequency for Rafeiro Do Alentejo and Shih Apso 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, Shih Apso 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 Shih Apsos?
Pin Brush Comb Deshedder Nail Clipper
Slicker Brush Dematter Comb Clipper
Cups
How much food should be given to Rafeiro Do Alentejo or Shih Apso 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 15-18 pound (7 - 8 kg) Shih Apso 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 Shih Apso?
$2.10 - $2.70 / day
The average cost of a Rafeiro Do Alentejo is somewhere $2.10 - $2.70 per day.
$1.30 - $1.40 / day
The average cost of a Shih Apso is somewhere $1.30 - $1.40 per day.
Monthly Cost
Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Rafeiro Do Alentejo or Shih Apso?
$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 Shih Apso 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 Shih Apsos
Rafeiro Do Alentejos are average in obedience intelligence but have a high IQ and may cause trouble if left unsupervised.
Shih Apso has below average obedience intelligence, but they excel in understanding human emotions.
Sensitivity Level
How do Rafeiro Do Alentejo and Shih Apso 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 Shih Apso?
Apartment Friendly
Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Rafeiro Do Alentejo or Shih Apso?
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.
Shih Apsos make excellent apartment dogs, being fairly active indoors and not requiring a yard.
Child Friendly
Do Rafeiro Do Alentejos or Shih Apsos have a friendlier temperament towards children?
Rafeiro Do Alentejo and Shih Apso 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 Shih Apso?
Cat Friendly
Do Rafeiro Do Alentejo or Shih Apso breeds have a better compatibility with cats?
Rafeiro Do Alentejos are somewhat cat friendly and can be trained to get along with cats.
Shih Apsos 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 Shih Apso?
Rafeiro Do Alentejos are less friendly towards other dogs, but can improve with socialization.
Shih Apsos are generally very friendly towards other dogs, with a happy and affectionate temperament.
Pet friendly
How do Rafeiro Do Alentejo or Shih Apso dogs interact with other pets?
Stranger Friendly
Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Rafeiro Do Alentejo or Shih Apso?
Rafeiro Do Alentejos are not very stranger friendly.
Shih Apsos are averagely friendly around strangers but benefit from early socialisation.
Playfulness
Which breed is more playful between Rafeiro Do Alentejo and Shih Apso?
Rafeiro Do Alentejos are not very fond of playing and prefer other activities.
Shih Apsos have an average level of playfulness, enjoying playtime like most dogs but not excessively so.
Trainability
How do the trainability levels of Rafeiro Do Alentejos and Shih Apsos compare?
Rafeiro Do Alentejos can be difficult to train and require consistent and patient training.
Shih Apsos are usually easy to train but require consistency to fully obey commands.
