Garafian Shepherd Information & Dog Breed Facts
Collection of all the general dog breed info about Garafian Shepherd so you can get to know the breed more.
Group | Pastoral / Herding Dogs |
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Popularity Rank | 395 |
Reviews | 1 |
User Ratings | |
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Origin | Spain |
Common Names & Aliases
What other names is a Garafian Shepherd known by? Discover all traditional, regional and informal names used for this breed. | Pastor de GarafíaGarafian Shepherd |
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Breed Classification
What type of dog breed is a Garafian Shepherd? Learn about its genetic classification and breeding category. | Purebred |
Overview
Pastor Garafiano was bred as working dogs which formed their personality and temperament. The main utilization of their attributes was to herd and protect goats and sheep.
That is why these dogs had been adaptable and capable of working for long hours. As a result, the animal is comfortable on hilly and rocky terrain.
As just a functional selection was undertaken, over time it has highly diverse properties. The grazing of goats and sheep in the rough terrain of La Palma is its primary skill.
They are intelligent and confident dogs with a definitely have a high working ethic and they like to have “some kind of a job” or task.
Pastor Garafiano is not only a great worker but also a very good companion dog if they can be active as a companion. They are famous for their calm, patient, and docile temperament.
Thanks to their high intelligence they are also capable of fast and relatively easy training. They are absolutely friendly towards their owner and also good and protective with children.
Size Classification
What size category is a Garafian Shepherd? Learn how big the Garafian Shepherd breed typically grows. | Large |
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Weight Statistics
How much does a Garafian Shepherd weigh? Discover typical weight ranges for adult males and females of the Garafian Shepherd breed. | Male: 62-77 pounds (28-35 kg), Female: 53-66 pounds (24-30 kg) |
Average Weight
What is the average weight of a Garafian Shepherd? | Male: 69.5 pounds (31.5 kg), Female: 60.5 pounds (27 kg) |
Height
How tall is the Garafian Shepherd? Garafian Shepherd height: | Male: 22-25 inch (57-64 cm), Female: 21.5-24 inch (55-62 cm) |
Average Height
What is the average height of a Garafian Shepherd? | Male: 23.5 inch (60.5 cm), Female: 23 inch (58.5 cm) |
Price Range
How much does a Garafian Shepherd puppy cost? Find current market prices and factors affecting Garafian Shepherd costs. | Unknown Unfortunately, we couldn't find the price of the Garafian Shepherd. If you have a Garafian Shepherd for sale, please advertise it on a reliable website to make sure the Garafian Shepherd gets to a happy place. |
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Availability
How easy is it to get a Garafian Shepherd? How many Garafian Shepherd are there in the world? | Average: The Garafian Shepherd is a commonly available dog breed. There is less risk of overbreeding compared to the very popular dogs. Of course, they may be more popular in some countries, and inbreeding may occur, so be careful. |
Intelligence Rating
How intelligent is a Garafian Shepherd? Discover the Garafian Shepherd's intelligence ranking and learning capabilities. | Smart: The Garafian Shepherd dogs have great intelligence. They understand and memorize new commands in 15-25 repetitions.
The Garafian Shepherd is among the smartest dogs in the intelligence ranking. |
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Training Difficulty
How easy is it to train a Garafian Shepherd? Learn about the Garafian Shepherd's trainability and response to training methods. | Garafian Shepherd dogs are easy to train. They find out the association between commands and actions quite quickly. |
Watchdog Rating
How good is a Garafian Shepherd as a watchdog? Learn about the Garafian Shepherd's alertness and guarding instincts. | Garafian Shepherd dogs are one of the best watchdogs. Their main job is to observe and they're very consistent in their effort. The best vocal cords and sense of hearing belong to them. Usually, they're very territorial and protective about their property, so the Garafian Shepherd dogs will alert you if they sense something different. |
Territorial Protection
Is a Garafian Shepherd protective of its territory? Learn about the Garafian Shepherd's guarding instincts and behavior. | Garafian Shepherd dogs strongly protect their territory. This breed is a complete security guard, so you don't have to be afraid in case of danger. |
Personality Traits
What personality does a Garafian Shepherd have? Learn about characteristic Garafian Shepherd temperament and behavior traits. | ActivePlayfulProtectiveIntelligentFriendlyDocileObedientSocialCompanionableHerding |
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Sensitivity Level
How sensitive are they? Garafian Shepherd sensitivity: | Garafian Shepherd dogs have an average emotional level and are not the most sensitive dog breed. Sometimes it's okay to change the daily routine, have guests and listen to loud music.
Some dogs handle moderate punishment very well, while others crumble apart at a dirty look. This breed is not affected emotionally by moderate punishment. |
Affection Level
How affectionate are they? Is a Garafian Shepherd a good family dog? | Average: Garafian Shepherd dogs are average dogs regarding their affection level. Some breeds are forthcoming and friendly, while others are independent and don't bond too closely with their owners. |
Social Needs
How much social interaction does the Pastor de Garafía need? Garafian Shepherd social needs: | Garafian Shepherd dogs need a lot of social interaction. They desire to always be with someone or around people. This breed hates being left alone. |
Impulse to Wander or Roam
How likely is the Garafian Shepherd to run away? Does this breed explore or wander a lot? Does Garafian Shepherd roam? | Garafian Shepherd dogs tend to escape less than other breeds. They have low to average wanderlust potential. Exploring the world is not the best activity they can imagine. |
Prey Drive
Do this canine have a strong prey drive? Does Garafian Shepherd have high prey drive? | Garafian Shepherd dogs have low to an average impulse to chase and catch something like a cat or any other small aminals. |
Barking Frequency
Does a Garafian Shepherd bark a lot? Learn about typical Garafian Shepherd vocalization patterns and triggers. | Average to High: The Garafian Shepherd is a vocal breed. Not the best choice if you prefer a quiet breed. They often bark loudly and howl sometimes. They can change their barks depending on their emotional level and what they're trying to say. Different barks could mean the same and the same barks could have different meanings.
Top reasons for barking: protection, alarm, fear, boredom, attention-seeking, greeting, separation anxiety, compulsive barking. |
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Playful Nature
How playful is a Garafian Shepherd? Understand the typical play drive and energy level of the Garafian Shepherd breed. | The Garafian Shepherd is a highly playful breed. Excited barking and sometimes nipping will alert you to play. |
Apartment Adaptability
Can a Garafian Shepherd live in an apartment? Learn about the Garafian Shepherd's suitability for apartment living. | Not an apartment-friendly dog the Garafian Shepherd breed. If you don't have a garden, think carefully about your decision, keeping Garafian Shepherd indoors can cause a lot of problems. |
Lifestyle Adaptability
How adaptable is a Garafian Shepherd to lifestyle changes? Learn about the Garafian Shepherd's flexibility to new situations. | Garafian Shepherd dogs adapt well to lifestyle changes and different living environments. They don't mind moving from one place to another with their owner. |
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Alone Time Tolerance
Can a Garafian Shepherd be left alone? Learn about the Garafian Shepherd's tolerance to solitude. | Garafian Shepherd dogs tend to have separation anxiety when their owners left them alone at home because they bond very closely with them. |
Bite Risk Assessment
What is a Garafian Shepherd biting potential? Learn about the Garafian Shepherd's bite risk factors. | Low 🔽 The Garafian Shepherd has a low chance of biting somebody. Top reasons for dog bite: protection, pain, excitement, herding instinct, being provoked. (Data based on the available online bite statistics.) |
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Mouthing Tendency
Is a Garafian Shepherd mouthy? Learn about the Garafian Shepherd's tendency to use mouth during play. | Garafian Shepherd dogs have a lower than average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people. It's a common habit during puppyhood, not aggressive behavior. These "bites" don't hurt, but Garafian Shepherd dogs need to be taught a good attitude. |
Bite Strength Rating
How strong is a Garafian Shepherd bite? Learn about the Garafian Shepherd's bite force measured in PSI. | Between 200 and 400 PSI ⏺ Garafian Shepherd bite force: Ordinary. Bite force Garafian Shepherd measurements typically fall within the range of 200 to 400 PSI. The bite force of a Garafian Shepherd is considered ordinary when compared to other dog breeds, but it is still quite powerful. This Garafian Shepherd bite force PSI can cause bite wounds. Garafian Shepherd bite PSI is not something that should be feared if the dog is well-trained and managed. To avoid any issues, it's essential to learn how to train a Garafian Shepherd puppy not to bite from an early age.
The Garafian Shepherd, and many others, have a fearsome presence because they have significant jaw strength, so it is important not to anger the dog and have it around strangers until it is fully trained. However, they are usually quite calm and good companions, they work well in families and are easy to care for. In conclusion, while the Garafian Shepherd bite force is certainly an interesting aspect of the breed, it is important not to let it overshadow the many other reasons why these dogs are so loved and respected. With proper training and socialization, a Garafian Shepherd can be a loyal and protective companion for your family. |
Average Lifespan
How long does a Garafian Shepherd live? Learn about the typical lifespan of the Garafian Shepherd breed. | 9-13 years The average lifespan of Garafian Shepherd: 11 years |
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Climate Tolerance
How well does a Garafian Shepherd handle different weather? Learn about the Garafian Shepherd's climate adaptability. | Prefers average to warm weather conditions Different dogs have different preferences when it comes to weather conditions. However, in general, most dogs prefer average to warm weather conditions, as they typically find hot weather conditions to be uncomfortable and taxing. |
Health Concerns
What health issues are common in a Garafian Shepherd? Discover typical conditions affecting the Garafian Shepherd breed. | The Garafian Shepherd is a healthy breed, but there are certain health issues that you should check with your vet regularly. |
Vet Care Frequency
How often does a Garafian Shepherd need vet visits? Learn about the Garafian Shepherd's veterinary care requirements. | Average The Garafian Shepherd should have a complete physical check-up at least once per year. If your dog shows any symptoms, call your veterinarian. |
Energy Rating
How energetic is a Garafian Shepherd? Understand daily activity needs of the Garafian Shepherd breed. | Garafian Shepherd dogs are high-energy dogs. An active lifestyle makes them happy. |
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Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
How much exercise does a Garafian Shepherd need? How much exercise do Garafian Shepherd dogs require per day?
Do Garafian Shepherd dogs need a lot of exercises? | Garafian Shepherd dogs need a lot of exercises. Long walks should be on a daily schedule. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you. |
Sleeping Need
How much sleep does the Garafian Shepherd breed need? | Garafian Shepherd dogs don't need too much sleep. They are energetic and desire to live active life. If you think naps are overrated, this breed can be the best choice for you. |
Obesity Tendency
Is a Garafian Shepherd prone to weight gain? Learn about the Garafian Shepherd's obesity risks. | Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the Garafian Shepherd's weight, he can easily gain weight. More than one daily walk should be on schedule. To make your dog happy and fit, feed him with quality dry dog food and live an active life together. Try to find the happy medium between exercise and feeding.
If you notice any weight gain, consult your veterinarian and make a diet plan. Reduce unhealthy food and snacks, and measure the Garafian Shepherd weight regularly. |
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Food Consumption
How much food does a Garafian Shepherd need daily? Learn about the Garafian Shepherd's feeding requirements. | 3 to 4.5 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals. |
Allergy Friendliness
Is a Garafian Shepherd hypoallergenic? Learn about the Garafian Shepherd's suitability for allergy sufferers. | No Garafian Shepherd dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions. Some dog breeds are even considered to higher possibility of an allergic response. Coat type isn't necessarily relevant, because most people are allergic to dander (flakes on the dog's skin) or saliva, not actually to dog hair. |
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Coat Colors
What colors does a Garafian Shepherd come in? Discover all possible Garafian Shepherd color variations. | FawnYellowOrange Grey Brown & YellowReddish-BrownGolden YellowThe coat color comes in solid shades of golden yellow, orange, fawn and light reddish-brown, with some small white markings. |
Grooming Requirements
How much grooming does a Garafian Shepherd need? Learn about Garafian Shepherd coat maintenance requirements. | Average: The Garafian Shepherd requires average grooming effort. Cutting the dog's hair by a professional groomer isn't essential. Brushing the dog's coat is useful to reduce shedding. Ears and eyes should be cleaned regularly to avoid infections. Don't skip the seasonal flea treatment too. Dog nail trimming and dog bath can be helpful sometimes. Check the local pet store for dog grooming supplies and find the best dog shampoo to keep its coat healthy and give your dog a pleasant experience of a dog bath. If you don't have the time, skill, or money to take care of your Garafian Shepherd, search for a dog groomer or clipping service in your area and book an appointment. Maybe you're lucky to have a dog boarding service that includes grooming or walk-in dog bath places nearby. |
Drooling Tendency
Does a Garafian Shepherd drool a lot? Learn about the Garafian Shepherd's drooling habits. | The Garafian Shepherd is an average drooler. Drooling is the unintentional saliva flowing outside of the mouth. It can be completely normal or a sign of a health problem.
If you notice any change in your dog's drooling habit, you should contact a vet as soon as possible. |
Stinkiness Rating
Does a Garafian Shepherd smell bad? Learn about the Garafian Shepherd's natural odor levels. | Medium ⏺ The Garafian Shepherd has an average chance of bad smell. Top reasons for dog stinkiness: infection of bad tooth/ear/skin folds, gas attacks. |
Coat Characteristics
What type of coat does a Garafian Shepherd have? Learn about the Garafian Shepherd's fur characteristics. | DenseSoftThickDense UndercoatAbundant |
Bathing Needs
How often does a Garafian Shepherd need baths? Learn about the Garafian Shepherd's bathing requirements. | 3-4 weeks More often than average. These dog coats tend to be longer, softer, and oilier than short-haired breeds. While a good bath every now and then is a great way to keep your buddy from becoming overly smelly, be mindful about overbathing.
Bathing will wash away your dog’s natural oils, while a simple brushing every few days should keep them clean. |
Shedding Level
How much do Garafian Shepherd dogs shed? How to control, reduce and prevent the shedding of the Pastor de Garafía? Do Garafian Shepherd dogs shed a lot? | Garafian Shepherd dogs shed above average. It's a natural process of the hair growth cycle. The amount and frequency of hair loss mostly depend on their health status and breed type. If you don't like vacuum cleaning, you might have to reconsider your choice of having a puppy from the Garafian Shepherd breed. |
Child Compatibility
Is a Garafian Shepherd good with children? Learn about the Garafian Shepherd's behavior around kids of different ages. | Garafian Shepherd dogs are kid-friendly dogs. This breed is a good choice if you have children. |
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Pet Compatibility
How well does a Garafian Shepherd get along with other pets? Discover the Garafian Shepherd's compatibility with other animals. | Garafian Shepherd dogs are generally with other pets. |
Stranger Friendly
Are they aggressive or friendly towards/with strangers? Garafian Shepherd temperament with other people: | Garafian Shepherd dogs are not the most stranger-friendly dogs. |
Cat Friendly
How well do Garafian Shepherd dogs get along with cats? Are they good with kittens? What is this fido's temperament with cats? Can they be good with cats? Can the Garafian Shepherd breed live with a cat? | Garafian Shepherd dogs are average friendly towards cats. |
Dog Friendly
Is Garafian Shepherd good with other dogs? Are they dog-friendly dogs? How well do Garafian Shepherd dogs get along with other dogs? | Garafian Shepherd dogs are average friendly towards other dogs. |
Good For First Time Owners
Is Garafian Shepherd breed good for first-time owners? Do they make a good dog for novice owners? Is Garafian Shepherd breed suitable for first-time owners? | Yes Garafian Shepherd dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality. |
Office Friendly
Are Garafian Shepherd dogs good office canines? Do Garafian Shepherd dogs make good office-friendly pets? Can they be office dogs? | No Garafian Shepherd is not the best dog breed for office environment. |
Senior Citizens Friendly
Are they senior citizens friendly dogs? How well do Garafian Shepherd dogs get along with the elderly people? What is the Pastor de Garafía temperament with senior people? Are Garafian Shepherd dogs good for elderly owners? | Garafian Shepherds are usually recommended for elderly people. |
Service Dog Capability
Can a Garafian Shepherd be a service dog? Learn about the Garafian Shepherd's service work potential. | Not really This breed generally not used as a service dog. A service dog is a term used in the USA to refer to any type of assistance dog specifically trained to help people who have disabilities, such as visual impairment, hearing impairments, mental disorders, seizures, mobility impairment, and diabetes. Service dogs are protected under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).
Garafian Shepherd is not the best breed for service purposes. |
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Therapy Work Suitability
Is a Garafian Shepherd good as a therapy dog? Learn about the Garafian Shepherd's therapy work aptitude. | Not really This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog. A therapy dog is a dog that might be trained to provide affection, comfort, and love to people in hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, hospices, disaster areas, and people with anxiety disorders or autism.
Garafian Shepherd is not the best breed for therapeutic purposes. |
Scent Detection Ability
Is a Garafian Shepherd good at detection work? Learn about the Garafian Shepherd's scenting abilities. | Not really They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases. A detection dog or sniffer dog is a dog that is trained to use its senses (mostly its smell) to detect substances such as explosives, illegal drugs, wildlife scat, currency, blood, and contraband electronics such as illicit mobile phones.
Garafian Shepherd is not the best breed for detection purposes. |
Search & Rescue Potential
Can a Garafian Shepherd do search and rescue? Learn about the Garafian Shepherd's SAR capabilities. | Not really This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog. The use of dogs in search and rescue (SAR) is a valuable component in wilderness tracking, natural disasters, mass casualty events, and locating missing people.
The Garafian Shepherd is not the best breed for SAR purposes. |
Maritime Work Ability
Is a Garafian Shepherd good on boats? Learn about the Garafian Shepherd's maritime capabilities. | Not really Garafian Shepherd breed usually doesn't like being on a boat. Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo. Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages. They were typically used for three purposes: as a working dog, a watchdog, and as a companion. A boat dog is a term used to describe a type of dog that was traditionally bred and used as a working dog on boats. |
Draft Work Capability
Can a Garafian Shepherd pull carts? Learn about the Garafian Shepherd's drafting abilities. | Not really A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. Dogs bred for this work have strong builds and qualities that are needed, strength and determination.
Garafian Shepherd is not the best breed for drafting purposes. |
Military Service Background
Was a Garafian Shepherd used in military service? Learn about the Garafian Shepherd's military history. | Not really In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog. |
Puppy Litter Size
How many puppies does a Garafian Shepherd usually have? Learn about typical litter sizes. | 1-11 puppies |
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Pregnancy Duration
How long is a Garafian Shepherd pregnant? Learn about the Garafian Shepherd's gestation period. | 60-64 days Reproductive cycle of the female Garafian Shepherd: The first period called Proestrus lasts for about 9 days.
During this time the females start to attract males. You can notice by swelling vulva and bloody discharge. The second part is the Estrus when the female is receptive for the male. It lasts for about 3 to 11 days. The sign of the proestrus part is the soft and enlarged vulva. The discharge decreases and lightens in color. The third part is the Diestrus. Normally, it occurs around day 14. In this period the female’s discharge changes for vivid red and coming to its end. The vulva returns to average, and she will no longer permit mating. The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time frame between heat periods normally lasts about six months. |
Breeding Frequency
How often can a Garafian Shepherd have puppies? Learn about safe breeding intervals. | Once a year. More frequent breeding is not healthy. It is very important not to buy a dog from a puppy mill, where the needs of the pups and their mothers are ignored. It's an inhumane high-volume dog breeding facility, where puppies born several times a year. |
AKC Classification
What AKC group is a Garafian Shepherd in? Learn about the Garafian Shepherd's AKC classification. | Not recognized by the American Kennel Club. |
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FCI Classification
What FCI group is a Garafian Shepherd in? Learn about the Garafian Shepherd's international classification. | Not recognized by FCI. |
Garafian Shepherd Pros and Cons
- Intelligence Rating: Smart: The Garafian Shepherd dogs have great intelligence.
- Training Difficulty: Garafian Shepherd dogs are easy to train.
- Watchdog Rating: Garafian Shepherd dogs are one of the best watchdogs.
- Mouthing Tendency: Garafian Shepherd dogs have a lower than average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people.
- Impulse to Wander or Roam: Garafian Shepherd dogs tend to escape less than other breeds.
- Lifestyle Adaptability: Garafian Shepherd dogs adapt well to lifestyle changes and different living environments.
- Child Compatibility: Garafian Shepherd dogs are kid-friendly dogs.
- Senior Citizens Friendly: Garafian Shepherds are usually recommended for elderly people.
- Good For First Time Owners: Garafian Shepherd dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
- Allergy Friendliness: Garafian Shepherd dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
- Apartment Adaptability: Not an apartment-friendly dog the Garafian Shepherd breed.
- Shedding Level: Garafian Shepherd dogs shed above average.
- Obesity Tendency: Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the Garafian Shepherd's weight, he can easily gain weight.
- Alone Time Tolerance: Garafian Shepherd dogs tend to have separation anxiety when their owners left them alone at home because they bond very closely with them.
- Office Friendly: Garafian Shepherd is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Garafian Shepherd History
The Pastor Garafiano or in its translated English name, the Garafian shepherd is a relatively rare purebred breed that is related to the Pastoral Dogs (Herding Dogs) group originating from the Canary Islands in Spain.
According to the breed standard, Garafian Shepherd is a medium to a large-sized dog with a relatively small head.
They have a lupoid-type body, which means that they resemble a wolf.
They are very intelligent dogs with active, playful, companionable, protective but also defensive tempers.
About the name
The name Pastor Garafiano comes from the municipality La Villa de Garafia, which is located on the northern coast of the island La Palma and can be translated to Garafian Shepherd.
Ancestry
There is limited information about the breed’s exact ancestry or date of origin. Its origins probably can be traced back to pre-Hispanic times.
Later on, when European settlers came to the island and brought their own dogs along.
Crossing the Pastor Garafiano with other races most notably Belgian Shepherds but also dogs such as Estrela Mountain Dog or Basque Shepherd Dog during the conquest influenced the development and history of the breed.
On the verge of extinction
During the 20th century, these dogs almost disappeared the reason behind this was crossing with other dog breeds which is why pure pastor Graafian oh became very rare.
To avoid the disappearance of the dog breed a working group with the aim of recovering the breed substance was created.
The project was successful because Pastor Garafiani is not on the verge of extinction anymore, furthermore, their numbers are still slowly rising.
Fun fact
An interesting fact about them is that these dogs can change color over time. Puppies can be born brownish and they changed their color as they grow adults are typically fawn or grey in different shades rarely these dogs can also be brownish or black.
Recognitions
This dog breed is not recognized by FCI or AKC yet, but they are recognized by the Spanish Kennel Club called La Real Sociedad Canina de Espana where you can also find their official breed standard.
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Garafian Shepherd Comments, Reviews and Questions
- Rafa
May 22, 2024, 4:08:29 PM:
A very beautiful dog and an excellent guard for the house. You can buy it as a work dog or a personal dog. It is very smart and learns very quickly.