Mastiff of the Pyrenees
It is a dog that reaches a considerable size and, therefore, can be imposing. However, you should know that it is actually a protective dog, affable and sensitive, so it is certainly a breed especially loved by those who were lucky enough to live with one of these great mountain dogs. We are talking about dogs that are traditionally shepherds and caregivers and who, for centuries, have protected herds in northern Spain from various dangers. Today they have become popular and we can find them in many other areas such as pet dogs.
- In this dossier Animal Expert we will talk in detail about this breed of great heart.
- So we will explain everything about the Mastiff of the Pyrenees: its personality.
- Its characteristics.
- Its education and its health.
- Among others.
- Also.
- If you are thinking about the possibility of adopting one of these dogs.
- Knowing more about them is essential to ensure a good adaptation.
- Read on!.
As the name suggests, this breed is native to the Pyrenees, specifically the Aragonese Pyrenees. Traditionally, the Mastiff of the Pyrenees was used to care for herds of cattle during the journeys made by transhuman shepherds. They were great caregivers of their flocks, protecting them from wolves, bears and thieves. It is believed that they came to our country several centuries ago, and they did so through sailors from the Mediterranean. Its genetic origins show that they come from crosses between mountain dogs and Spanish mastiffs.
During the periods of hardship and scarcity caused by the Spanish Civil War (and its consequent post-war period), the breed suffered serious damage because, due to its great proportions, it was difficult to maintain these dogs, which is why the Mastiff of the Pyrenees suffered a significant decline during this period. In 1977 the Club du Mastiff of the Pyrenees of Spain was founded, whose objective is to recover this breed so that it returns to have the prominence it deserves. Thanks to this work, the breed is now known internationally.
The Mastiff of the Pyrenees is considered a race of giant size. While females can weigh between 55 and 77 kg, males can reach a maximum of 100 kg, as well as a cross height between 72 and 77 cm. Their bodies are compact and muscular, with strong and robust limbs, which can be misleading to think that they are dogs with clumsy and slow walking, but nothing further from reality, because the agility and coordination of the Mastiff of the Pyrenees are really amazing. . One peculiarity is that many specimens usually have spurs on their legs, especially on the hind legs.
Its head is large, elongated and solid in appearance, its snout is straight and triangular, ending with a prominent and bulky truffle, usually black. The eyes are almond, not too large, expressive and in hazelnut tones. The ears are triangular in shape, medium-sized and hang up to the cheeks. The fur of the pyrenees mastiffs is considerably long, about 7 to 8 centimeters long, or a little longer in certain parts of the body, such as the neck or belly. This fur is dense and thick, which protects the animals from the cold typical of the mountainous regions from which it originates.
The most notable characteristics of mastiff dogs in the Pyrenees are probably their nobility and loyalty. Also, due to the selection of the breed, they are also especially faithful, brave and protective dogs. In fact, it is important to quickly socialize the puppy to avoid developing an overly territorial personality, due to its past as a watchdog and shepherd. Socialization is also important so that they can have positive relationships with all kinds of people and animals, as well as being in different environments.
However, we are also talking about a quiet, relaxed and self-confident dog. He is very reliable, especially with his family members, who will follow him, despite a relatively independent attitude. However, it should be noted that because of its large size, they do not always control their forces well, so you have to be careful about it.
Mastiffs are dogs that, with considerably long fur, require frequent brushing, and it is recommended to do so daily. Brushing them will prevent dirt from accumulating in your body, as well as the house filling with hair, but it will also facilitate the early detection of possible parasites by fleas and/ or ticks, especially if the dog has access to wooded and herbaceous areas. Areas. . It is also advisable to give a monthly bath to keep hair clean and soft, always using specific products for dogs, never for human use.
As for food, it must be complete and balanced, because otherwise, being mostly voracious animals, they can develop overweight and obesity. In your routine, games, exercise and mental stimulation can’t be lacking.
The education and training of the Mastiff of the Pyrenees should begin early. As we have already said, during the puppy phase it will be practical to socialize with all kinds of people, animals and environments. Later, you should start working on the basic commands of the dog, such as sitting, shutting up, lying down, among other things. It is essential that they learn to obey to respond correctly and that their owners can have good control over the dog. Always use positive reinforcement, including early food prices, which will gradually be replaced by affection and verbal reinforcement. You should never use punishment with this dog, as the risk of developing undesirable behavior is high.
Once basic obedience is consolidated, you will continue to stimulate the dog’s mind with dog exercises, activities, tasks or dog skills. This is very positive for your mind and prevents the development of cognitive dysfunction syndrome, a kind of “canine Alzheimer’s disease”. However, due to its large size and physical strength, it will be essential to seek an ethologist, educator or dog trainer in the presence of any behavioral problems, especially if it is a behavior related to children, people or other animals.
The Mastiff of the Pyrenees is, like other breeds of dogs, susceptible to suffering several hereditary health problems. The most common is probably hip dysplasia, a condition that prevents the femur from inserting properly into the pelvis bone. This causes a lot of pain in the affected person, as well as difficulty walking. However, elbow dysplasia is also common. Other disorders that have a high incidence in this breed are:
To prevent as far as possible and to quickly detect any of the above health problems, it will be essential to go to the veterinarian every 6 or 12 months and carry out a general review. It should strictly follow the dog’s vaccination schedule and periodic deworming. The life expectancy of the Mastiff of the Pyrenees is short, between 8 and 12 years.