It originates in the Algarve region of southern Portugal, and is named for the Barrocal [pt] sub-region thereof.
[2] A breed society, the Associação de Criadores do Cão do Barrocal Algarvio, was formed either in 2004[5]: 241 or in 2006.
[6] A molecular genetic study of the dogs was begun in 2012 by the Instituto Nacional de Investigação Veterinária;[5]: 241 preliminary results found an index of genetic diversity comparable to that in other Portuguese breeds.
[7]: 53 The Barrocal Algarvio was recognised by the Clube Português de Canicultura in 2015,[2] and received official recognition from the Direção-Geral de Alimentação e Veterinária as an autochthonous dog breed originating in Portugal in 2016.
[8][9] The Cão do Barrocal Algarvio is of medium size, and is roughly square in outline.