Overview
The Pastor Garafiano is a sheepdog from La Palma in the Canary Islands, named after the Garafía district in the island's north. It was shaped by function: shepherds needed a dog that could control goats and sheep on steep, rocky ground.
It has been recognised by the Spanish kennel club since 2003 and is still a rare breed, listed among Spain's vulnerable native breeds.
History
The breed descends from dogs that may date back to pre-Hispanic times on the island. After the conquest, crosses with other dogs, notably Belgian shepherds, added to its makeup. Selection was by working ability rather than looks, so its appearance has stayed rather varied.
In the 1960s heavy crossing with other herding breeds nearly swallowed the type. A conservation group formed in 1980 and later became the breed association, working from the few pure dogs kept by island shepherds.
Appearance
A medium-sized, agile dog. Females stand about 50 to 56 cm at the withers and weigh 18 to 25 kg; males are around 4 cm taller and about 6 kg heavier. The body may be slightly higher at the croup than at the withers.
Because selection has been functional, individual dogs can differ in detail.
Temperament
Bred to work independently with goats among cliffs and ravines, it is hardy, alert and devoted to its shepherd. It is intelligent and eager to work.
Care and exercise
This is a working dog that needs plenty of daily activity and a job to do, and does best in the countryside or with an active family. Its coat is easy to maintain with simple brushing.
