SPANISH MASTIFF

Apartment Living

Good for 1st Time Owners

Tolerance Levels

Affection for Family

Kid Friendliness

Stranger Friendliness

Ease of Grooming

General Health

Trainability

Prey Drive

Exercise Needs

Energy Level

History

Spanish Mastiff is recognized as an ancient breed and the ancestry is still unknown. However, it is believed that these dogs were brought by the Phoenician traders to the Iberian Peninsula 2000 years ago. They were used as a livestock guardian and as a herding dog in Europe. Dog researchers believe that this breed had also been used in battles between Spaniards against the native people. They were war dogs and more ferocious than the dogs we find today.

Varieties

  1. Mastin Ligero or the Light Mastiff  (lighter dog with a refined steppe type)
  2. Mastin Pesado or the Heavy Mastiff (sturdy or hefty type, more popular in the mountain of Spain and takes part in dog shows or other forms of expositions)

Temperament & Personality

Spanish Mastiff  puppies are gentle and goes well with both children and unknown people. However, supervision is necessary when they are with children as they are giant dogs, they might knock the baby due to the excitement. In the adverse situations, it becomes the protector of its family. These dogs are best for village life and not for a condo life as they have a thunderous voice which can disturb the neighbors. They are very willful sometimes and develop strong relations with its human family. It requires socialization as it can be stubborn at times.

Exercise

These puppies are not high on energy and walking twice a day in a fenced yard where they can play will be adequate. Due to their low activity level, they take a very long time to grow. The owner can also provide it with some puzzle games which will keep the dog busy and provide mental stimulation.

Grooming

The breed is a heavy shedder and requires high maintenance wherein brushing with a proper brush twice or thrice a week will help to maintain its coat. During the shedding season, they need regular brushing to clean the dead hairs and dirt from its coat. When it is exceptionally filthy, bathe them with a dog shampoo. Other grooming measures like trimming their nails, ear cleaning and tooth brushing are crucial each week to maintain hygiene.


Health Problems

Spanish Mastiff is a big dog and prone to a large number of musculoskeletal issues which includes hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. It can suffer from pano-osmosis or growing pains, and if the puppy grows up very fast, it might suffer from these diseases later in life. Minor problems which affect the dog are heart problems, breathing issues and entropion. Regular tests and random veteran checkups will keep the dog healthy.

Training

These dogs were guards dogs earlier and still possess naturally protective instincts. It takes three years or more to grow which makes training a tough job. However, start its training from the early days as it can’t tolerate another dog. Proper socialization will help the dog to change its behavior. To control their yapping tendency, teach them commands like “Sit,” “Stop,” “No.” It will help the owner to keep the dog in control. Positive training methods like snack treats, hugs and praises will help the dog to pick up training very quickly. Additionally, a firm and consistent trainer is necessary to train this dog as they might get stubborn during the training period. This dog is not appropriate for the first time owners as they sometimes ignore commands.

Feeding

Commercial dog foods about 6 to 8 cups or homemade food which is abundant in nutrient and protein will be adequate for the dog. Dividing the meals into two halves will keep its digestion on track.

Spanish Mastiff Facts

Spanish Mastiff

Group:

Breed Type:

Characteristics:

Other Names:

Mastin Leones, Mastin Espanol

Height & Weight:

28-35 inches & Females: 145-170 Pounds Males: 185-220 Pounds

Color:

Black, Yellow, Brindle, Red, Wolf-sable, fawn

Competitive Registration / Qualification Information:

ACA,AKC/FSS,NAPR,ACR,CKC,DRA,UKC,ARBA,FCI,APRI

Shedding:

Heavy Shedding

Hypoallergenic:

No

Average Litter Size:

3-6 puppies

Lifespan:

10-11 years

Coat:

Short, Dense

Price:

$600-$800

Origin:

Spain,[Europe]

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