Perro de pastor garafiano

AlertLoyalProtectiveIntelligentHigh energy

The Perro de pastor garafiano is a herding dog from La Palma in the Canary Islands, bred to work goats and move livestock across steep, rocky ground. At home he tends to be alert, loyal to his family, and watchful of strangers, and he often forms a close bond with one person. With children and other pets he does best when raised with them early and given clear, calm handling, since herding instincts can show up as nipping at heels or chasing.

Day to day he needs real physical work and mental tasks, not just a walk around the block. Daily structured exercise, scent games, obedience, and simple herding or agility practice keep him settled. Without enough outlet he can become restless and vocal. He is generally a good fit for an active household with space and a committed owner.

Good for: Active owners with space, experienced dog households

Exercise	about 120 min a day
Shedding	moderate

Before you choose a Perro de pastor garafiano

He needs far more exercise and training structure than most companion breeds, so consider whether your daily routine can truly support him.

Living with a Perro de pastor garafiano

Exercise

Plan for at least two hours a day of active exercise, such as hiking, running, or structured play. Mental work like training and scent tasks counts toward his needs.

Grooming

He has a weather-resistant double coat that sheds moderately, with heavier seasonal blowouts. Brush a few times a week and bathe only as needed.

Health

Like many working breeds, he may be prone to hip and elbow dysplasia and eye conditions. Ask a veterinarian about screening and health testing when choosing a puppy.

Hip dysplasia
Elbow dysplasia
Progressive retinal atrophy

Known tendencies, not a diagnosis: ask your vet about this breed.

The numbers for a Perro de pastor garafiano

Weather

Watch above 75°F, stop at 85°F

Coat or short walks below 32°F. Comfortable in most weather: watch pavement heat above 85°F and add a coat below freezing if the coat is short.

LIVE · New York

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Walk index

Heat, pavement and UV for your dog.

Right now

Latest dog food recalls

Aunt Millie s Bakehouse Whole Grain White Hot Dog Buns 6" Sliced 2 OUNCE. 12 unlabeled 12CT PKGS per sale unit case, product code 7502. Net. Wt. 18lbs.
Perfection Bakeries LLC · Sep 13 · Undeclared sesame

Breadman Brioche products in plastic bags: Brioche Toast, 2 lb. (1 loaf/bag), Brioche Buns, 40oz (10 buns/bag), Brioche Sliders, 50oz (25 sliders/bag), Brioche Hot Dog, 40oz (10 buns/bag)
Breadbox Co. · May 16 · Undeclared Yellow No. 5

Our Family White Hot Dog Enriched Buns, 8 count 12oz. retail unit UPC 0-70253-75107-3
Perfection Bakeries LLC · Mar 21 · undeclared sesame

All recalls →

Questions owners ask

Does the Perro de pastor garafiano shed a lot?

He sheds moderately year-round and more heavily in seasonal coat changes. Regular brushing a few times a week keeps loose hair under control.

Can he live in an apartment?

It is difficult. He needs significant daily exercise and mental work, so he does best with a yard and an owner who can provide hours of activity each day.

Is he prone to barking?

He can be vocal and alert to sounds and strangers. Early training and enough exercise help reduce excessive barking.