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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
Popularity Rank395
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Garafian Shepherd dog profile picture
OriginSpain flagSpain
Other Names
What other names does the Garafian Shepherd have?
Pastor de GarafíaGarafian Shepherd
Breed Type
What type of dog breed is it?
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.

Garafian Shepherd Size and Weight

Size
Is a Garafian Shepherd small, medium or large dog?

How big do Garafian Shepherd get?

What is the average size of a Garafian Shepherd?

Large
Weight
How much does the Garafian Shepherd weigh? How much should a Garafian Shepherd weight? What is the normal weight of a Garafian Shepherd? How much does a full-grown Garafian Shepherd weight?
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)

Garafian Shepherd Price and Availability

Price
How much does the Garafian Shepherd puppy cost? What is the price range of this puppy? What is the average price of a Garafian Shepherd in the United States? How much money is a Garafian Shepherd?

Where to buy a Garafian Shepherd with a good pedigree?

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.
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.

Garafian Shepherd Trainability and Intelligence

Intelligent Rank
How smart is the Garafian Shepherd? Is the Garafian Shepherd breed dumb or smart?
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.

Trainability
Are Garafian Shepherd dogs easy to train? Do they go well on dog training? How hard is it to train a Garafian Shepherd?
Garafian Shepherd dogs are easy to train. They find out the association between commands and actions quite quickly.
Watchdog Ability
Is Garafian Shepherd good as a watchdog? Are they alert at night?
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.
Guarding Behavior / Territorial
Do Garafian Shepherd dogs have aggressive behavior to protect their home/house/territory? Do they have guarding instincts?
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.

Garafian Shepherd Personality and Temperament

Temperament
What kind of personality does the Garafian Shepherd have? What characteristics or traits does the breed have?
ActivePlayfulProtectiveIntelligentFriendlyDocileObedientSocialCompanionableHerding
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.

Garafian Shepherd Activity and Playfulness

Playfulness
How playful is this breed?
The Garafian Shepherd is a highly playful breed. Excited barking and sometimes nipping will alert you to play.
Barking
Do Garafian Shepherd dogs bark a lot? Are they barkers/noisy? Why does my Pastor de Garafía bark?
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.

Apartment Friendly
Is Garafian Shepherd good as an apartment dog? Can they live in a flat? Can you have a Garafian Shepherd in an apartment?
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.

Garafian Shepherd Adaptability and Independence

Adaptability
Are they adaptable and easy-going?
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.
Tolerates Being Left Alone
How long can a Garafian Shepherd be left alone? How long can you leave a Garafian Shepherd alone?
Garafian Shepherd dogs tend to have separation anxiety when their owners left them alone at home because they bond very closely with them.

Garafian Shepherd Bite Characteristics

Bite Force PSI
Does the Garafian Shepherd has a hard bite? What is the bite force of a Garafian Shepherd? How much bite force does a Garafian Shepherd have? How strong is a Garafian Shepherd bite?

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.

Biting Potential
Do Garafian Shepherd bite humans? How likely are you to get bitten from the Pastor de Garafía? What are the odds of getting bitten by a Garafian Shepherd? Why do dog bites happen?

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.)
Mouthiness
How much mouthing/nipping/play biting does the Garafian Shepherd do?
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.

Garafian Shepherd Health and Lifespan

Health Issues
Is it a healthy or unhealthy breed? Do Garafian Shepherd dogs have health problems or genetic diseases?
The Garafian Shepherd is a healthy breed, but there are certain health issues that you should check with your vet regularly.
Veterinarian Visits
How often does the Garafian Shepherd breed need to go to the vet? How often should you take your dog to the vet? How often should the Garafian Shepherd see the vet?
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.
Life Expectancy
How long do Garafian Shepherd dogs live? How old can a Garafian Shepherd be? What is the age limit of the Garafian Shepherd? How many years can the oldest Garafian Shepherd live?

What is the average life expectancy / lifespan of a Garafian Shepherd?

How long is the lifespan of a Garafian Shepherd?

9-13 years
The average lifespan of Garafian Shepherd: 11 years
Weather and Climate
Which weather condition is preferred by this dog? Can they tolerate hot or cold weather and climate?
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.

Garafian Shepherd Energy and Activity

Energy Level
How much energy does the Garafian Shepherd have? What is the activity level of the Garafian Shepherd?
Garafian Shepherd dogs are high-energy dogs. An active lifestyle makes them happy.
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.

Garafian Shepherd Diet and Weight Management

Average daily food consumption
How much food does a Garafian Shepherd need? What dog products should I buy? How much food does a Garafian Shepherd breed eat per day? What is good dog food for Garafian Shepherd? How much food should I feed my Garafian Shepherd?
3 to 4.5 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.
Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity
How easy to gain weight for this dog? Garafian Shepherd risk for obesity:
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.

Garafian Shepherd Allergies and Grooming

Coat / Hair Types
What type of coat does the Garafian Shepherd have? What does this canine coat/fur look like?
DenseSoftThickDense UndercoatAbundant
Colors
What color is the breed's coat? What color are proper Garafian Shepherd coats?
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
How to groom the Garafian Shepherd and how often? How often should I take my Garafian Shepherd to the groomer?
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.

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.
Bath Time / Bathing Frequency
How often does the Garafian Shepherd need a bath? How often should you give a Garafian Shepherd a bath? Can I bathe my Garafian Shepherd every day?
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.

Hypoallergenic
Is the Garafian Shepherd breed hypoallergenic?
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.
Stinkiness
How stinky is this dog? Why does it smell bad and how to get rid of the smell?

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.
Drooling Tendency
Does the Garafian Shepherd drool?
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.

Garafian Shepherd Good With

Pet Friendly
Are they pet-friendly dogs? How well do Garafian Shepherd dogs get along with other pets? Are Garafian Shepherd dogs good with pets? What is this canine temperament with other pets?
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.
Child Friendly
Are Garafian Shepherd dogs kid-friendly? Are they good with young children? Garafian Shepherd temperament with children:
Garafian Shepherd dogs are kid-friendly dogs. This breed is a good choice if you have children.
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.

Garafian Shepherd As a Working Dog

Service Dog
Are they good as service dogs? Can Garafian Shepherd be a guide dog? Are they used as seeing-eye dogs?

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.

Therapy Dog
Are they good as therapy dogs? Can Garafian Shepherd be a therapy dog? Are they good anxiety dogs? Can a Garafian Shepherd be an emotional support animal?

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.

Detection Dog or Sniffer Dog
Are they good as detection dogs? Can Garafian Shepherd be a sniffer dog?

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 and Rescue Dog (SAR)
Are they good as SAR dogs? Can Garafian Shepherd be a search and rescue dog?

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.

Boat and Sailor Dog
Are they good as boat dogs? Can Garafian Shepherd be a boat dog?

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.

Cart Pulling or Drafting Dog
Are they good as cart pulling dogs? Can Garafian Shepherd be a drafting dog?

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.

Fighting Dog / Military Dog
Where Garafian Shepherd dogs used as fighting / military dogs in history?

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Garafian Shepherd Reproducibility

Gestation Length
How long is a Garafian Shepherd pregnant?How long does it take to have puppies? How to tell if the Garafian Shepherd breed is pregnant?

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.

Litter Frequency

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.
Litter Size
How many puppies can the Garafian Shepherd have in a litter? How many puppies can the Garafian Shepherd breed have for the first time? How many puppies does a Garafian Shepherd have? How many puppies can a Garafian Shepherd give birth to?
1-11 puppies

Garafian Shepherd Recognition

AKC Group
Is Garafian Shepherd recognized by the American Kennel Club?
Not recognized by the American Kennel Club.
FCI Group
Is Garafian Shepherd recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)?
Not recognized by FCI.

Garafian Shepherd Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Intelligent Rank: Smart: The Garafian Shepherd dogs have great intelligence.
  • Trainability: Garafian Shepherd dogs are easy to train.
  • Watchdog Ability: Garafian Shepherd dogs are one of the best watchdogs.
  • Mouthiness: 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.
  • Adaptability: Garafian Shepherd dogs adapt well to lifestyle changes and different living environments.
  • Child Friendly: 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.
Cons
  • Hypoallergenic: Garafian Shepherd dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Apartment Friendly: Not an apartment-friendly dog the Garafian Shepherd breed.
  • Shedding Level: Garafian Shepherd dogs shed above average.
  • Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity: Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the Garafian Shepherd's weight, he can easily gain weight.
  • Tolerates Being Left Alone: 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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