Pyrenean Mastiff

Overview of Pyrenean Mastiffs

  • The Pyrenean Mastiff is usually content in its home surroundings if it’s provided with a loving home and owner – however bad habits can be formed during puppyhood beginning with chewing the odd shoe and if undisciplined this can result in greater destruction as an adult.
  • The Pyrenean Mastiff is a Molosser type dog that comes from Spain, in the Aragonese Pyrenees and is an ancient breed, having been around for many centuries though it was not actually known to the outside world until quite recently in the mid to late 1970s.
  • The Pyrenean Mastiff is one of many breeds in the Mastiff family of dogs that descend from what experts believe were the first domesticated dogs, hailing from Molosser dogs originating in Phoenicia 3000 to 5000 years ago.
  • Pyrenean Mastiff Long-haired Pyrenean Sheepdog Pyrenean Sheepdog – smooth faced One of France’s oldest breeds, the Pyrenean Sheepdog breed – or Le Berger des Pyrenees – dates back to at least the 19th century.
  • The Pyrenean Mastiff is not highly energetic, but does need a good deal of outdoor space: its migratory past means it’s not content to live within the confines of a house at all times.
  • Pyrenean Mastiff females need to keep eating puppy food until the age of eighteen months, and the males should continue on puppy food until they are a full two years old.
  • The Pyrenean Mastiff is a large dog and one that boasts a striking thick, double coat with the hair around their necks being that much longer forming a distinctive ruff.
  • Pyrenean Mastiff will probably spend his days lounging around while being nibbled or pounced by smaller family members (children) or smaller canine members.
  • The Pyrenean Mastiff is generally considered tall with a height of between 30 inches and 31 inches for males and 25 inches and 30 inches for females.
  • Pyrenean Mastiffs love to cuddle – despite their massive size – and will rest their head on your legs when you are sitting down.
  • Breed

    Initially brought to Spain via Assyria, the Mastiffs evolved into different livestock guarding breeds during centuries of geographical isolation.

    Coat

    Notable color patters are white and beige, white and black, white and brown, white and silver, and many more!The Pyrenean Mastiff has a thick coat consisting of either a solid or pied pattern that comes in a variety of colors.

    Genetic Predispositions

    At the end of the booklet, we have also included a description of what you can do at home to keep your Pyrenean Mastiff looking and feeling her best.This guide contains general health information important to all canines as well as the most important genetic predispositions for Pyrenean Mastiffs.This information helps you and us together plan for your pet’s unique medical needs.You will know what to watch for, and we will all feel better knowing that we’re taking the best possible care of your pal.

    Grooming

     He needs brushing a few times every week or he’ll fall victim to easy tangling and matting.The Pyrenean Mastiff is a rather high maintenance dog when it concerns their grooming requirements.

    Health

    Canine Hip Dysplasia and Bloat can also be seen, as can conjunctivitis.Health problems associated with the Pyrenean Mastiff include Entropion and Ectropion, both of these being eyelid-related problems, so be sure to follow a good care routine.

    Infections

    Many of these infections are preventable through vaccination, which we will recommend based on the diseases we see in our area, herage, and other factors.Pyrenean Mastiffs are susceptible to bacterial and viral infections—the same ones that all dogs can get—such as parvo, rabies, and distemper.

    Obesity

    Instead, give her a hug, brush her fur or teeth, play a game with her, or perhaps take her for a walk.It is a serious disease that may causeor worsen joint problems, metabolic and digestive disorders, back pain and heart disease.Obesity can be a significant health problem in Pyrenean Mastiffs.She’ll feel better, and so will you!Though it’s tempting to give your pal food when she looks at you with those soulful eyes, you can “love her to death” with leftover people food and doggie treats.

    Social

    The Pyrenean Mastiff should be socialized at a young age to ensure that this gentle creature does well with families, children, and other animals.

    Temperament

    As we discuss the following traits, you’ll see why the Pyrenean Mastiff temperament makes him such a good pet.Even his less than desirable characteristics are easily fixable and don’t cause a significant amount of issues.

    Training

    Doggy Dan is an expert Dog Trainer based in New Zealand.For help with training your Pyrenean Mastiff dog take a look at The Online Dog Trainer by Doggy Dan.His online resource contains Hundreds of Excellent Dog Training Videos that will take you step-by-step through the process of developing a healthy, happy well-behaved dog.

    Food & Diet Requirements ??

    When it comes to feeding, the thing you have to keep in mind with this breed is its massive size.You can expect to feed your Pyrenean Mastiff three cups of high-quality dry dog food each day as a minimum.If you have one of the behemoth-sized Pyreneans, then you might be feeding even more than this.

    Does This Breed Get Along with Other Pets?

    For most big dog breeds, their innate prey drive makes them unsafe to be kept around smaller pets unsupervised.But that’s not the case with the Pyrenean Mastiff who has a very low prey drive since they were bred to protect livestock.

    Are Pyrenean Mastiffs Good With Children?

    Yes, this dog is great around children.They are also more relaxed compared to other large breeds.They are playful, affectionate, and gentle, the perfect all-round dog for a child.Their big size could make smaller children more prone to accidents.Yet they are an intelligent breed and are highly aware of how big they are.

    Are These Dogs Good for Families? ??

    Because of how gentle they are with those smaller than themselves, Pyrenean Mastiffs make excellent family pets.They play very gently with children.But due to their large size, they can still be a hazard around unstable kids or the very young.

    Are Pyrenean Mastiffs Ok With Other Dogs?

    Yes, the Pyrenean Mastiff is great with other dogs and household animals.They have a low prey drive so won’t have the instinct to chase.This dog was bred to solely protect animals and family, and it is a trait that has never left them.They can easily live with other household pets but should preferably be introduced from an early age.

    Where Does the Pyrenean Mastiff Come From?

    The Pyrenean Mastiff’s ancestors date back three millennia.Their forebears were likely giant dogs, known as the Molossers.These dogs were heavy and huge and bred to fill a number of roles from fighting (alongside Roman soldiers), to guarding and herding.

    Conclusion: Is the Pyrenean Mastiff the Right Dog For You?

    If you want a gigantic, affectionate companion, the Pyrenean Mastiff temperament would be an ideal fit for you.He’ll brighten up each day with his cute drooling and fun-loving attitude that’ll make each day an adventure.

    Exercise ??

    As a dog that was bred to work all day, Pyrenean Mastiffs have tons of endurance and all-day energy.Because of this, they need plenty of exercise.The last thing you want is a dog this size turning destructive because they got bored.

    How active is the Pyrenean Mastiff?

    As a breed that has been developed over many years to be a working dog the PM needs a role to play, needs to be mentally stimulated and needs a certain level of physical activity.It should be with owners who are active and enjoy going out every day where you can take it with you, especially if you are not keeping it as a working dog.It is not suited to apartment living, it needs space and at least a large yard, preferably you live in a rural setting.Take it for two or three good walks a day and it could also join you for a hike and it should also get some off leash time somewhere safe.

    Is A Pyrenean Mastiff Right For Me?

    Do you have room in your heart (and home) for a shaggy gentle giant? These majestic dogs have a superb temperament but are demanding of your finances.If you long for a giant dog that is tolerant and laidback, then a Pyrenean Mastiff might be for you.

    How To Train Your Pyrenean Mastiff?

    Pyrenean Mastiff is easy to train, due to his calm temper and easy going nature.But, just like with any other breed, it’s important to start training your puppy from day one.In addition, early socialization is crucial when it comes to having a properly behaved dog.But, it’s important to set yourself as a strong pack leader so your dog follows your commands.

    Did You Know That There Are Food To Help Your Dogs Gain Weight?

    Underweight and undernourishment is as real an issue as obesity among dogs.

    What will training look like?

    The Pyrenean Mastiff needs good training and socialization from an early age as its size alone can make it hard to control if there is not a good foundation there.Be confident and consistent with it, when you want it to do something or stick to a rule set you need to be firm about it.If it is with an owner that it is too meek and passive it will not respect you and will act how it wants to.Early socialization means let it get used to different places, people, sounds, animals situations and so on.It is intelligent but dominant and that means you can expect it to be a gradual process, just be positive and offer it rewards, treats and motivate it with praise and encouragement.

    What you should never overfeed a dog?

    Carbohydrates.You should never ever overfeed your dogs too much carbs as they get stored as fat in the body if they are not used.

    Are Pyrenean Mastiffs Good With Strangers?

    This dog isn’t aggressive, they are friendly towards strangers, provided they don’t pose a threat.A dog like this will never feel intimidated by a person they don’t know.Their deep and loud bark is more than enough to scare people away.

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    How is the Pyrenean Mastiff with other animals and children?

    The Pyrenean Mastiff can be that gentle giant with good exercise, firm owners and clear socialization and training.It is a steady and docile dog and gets along very well with children and other dogs and pets.Supervision for small children is a good idea though not because it might hurt them but because being so big it can easily accidentally knock over toddlers.Also ensure the children are taught how to touch and play with the dog properly.

    Training ??

    A smart breed with a long history as a working dog, you might expect Pyrenean Mastiffs to be easy to train.While they certainly have the intelligence and aptitude for it, they have enough of a stubborn streak that they can be a bit difficult to train.

    Is Pyrenean Mastiff Friendly With Children?

    The Pyrenean Mastiff is good-natured canine and is even-tempered, loving and affectionate to children especially with older children.

    What Makes a Pyrenean Mastiff Unique?

    The Pyrenean Mastiff is a member of the AKC's 'Foundation Stock Service' with a temperament that is often described as brave, gentle and noble.The Pyrenean Mastiff has a demeanor best described as 'Welcoming and Friendly'.When it comes to grooming needs, the Pyrenean Mastiff requires brushing 2-3 times a week and sheds seasonally.In regards to training, you can expect the Pyrenean Mastiff to be willing to follow with calm levels of excitement or energy.The Pyrenean Mastiff can be expected to live 10 to 13 years if they receive proper excercise and a Pyrenean Mastiff dog food diet that keeps their weight between 120-240 pounds.The Pyrenean Mastiff is generally considered tall with a height of between 30 inches and 31 inches for males and 25 inches and 30 inches for females.

    Grooming ??

    If you’re looking for a dog with easy maintenance that doesn’t shed much, you’ll need to look elsewhere.The Pyrenean Mastiff has a very thick, long, and shaggy coat that needs continuous maintenance.

    Do Pyrenean Mastiffs Make Good Family Dogs?

    Mastiff breeds can be controversial pets due to their size and reputation.

    How Much Do Pyrenean Mastiffs Cost?

    Due to their rarity, Pyrenean Mastiffs are on the expensive side of purebred puppies.Depending on the breeder’s track record for producing high-quality puppies, the cost of a Pyrenean Mastiff with a pedigree can fall anywhere between $1200 and $1800 dollars.

    Health and Conditions ??

    Many breeds that are near the size of the Pyrenean Mastiff are plagued with a myriad of health problems.But this breed only faces a few commonly experienced health concerns.

    What Colors Do They Come In?

    They have a thick coat that is white with large dark spots that can range from black to tan.

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    What’s the Price of Pyrenean Mastiff Puppies?

    Because this breed is still mostly localized to just one region of Spain, Pyrenean Mastiff puppies can be difficult to obtain.If you do manage to get ahold of one, there can be quite a few backend costs to getting it home to your family.

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    History of Pyrenean Mastiffs

  • In 1659 Mazarino, Regent of France, negotiated the annexation of extensive territory to the north of the current border from Felipe IV, King of Spain, through the Treaty of Pyrenees.
  • In 1928, Antonio Nores Martinez, a medical doctor, professor and surgeon, set out to breed a big game hunting dog that was also capable of being a loyal pet and guard dog.
  • In 1947 the breed was finally created.
  • In 1954, the breed was recognized by the FCI (Fédération Cynologique Internationale), and it is also recognized by the AKC (American Kennel Club).
  • In 1975 a new interest in the breed erupted.
  • In 1977 the dog was recognized by the Spanish Club del Mastín del Pirineo de España as a modern purebred and it was then that it was introduced to other countries including the US.
  • In 1977, the Club del Mastín del Pirineo (honoring the breed’s local Spanish name) was founded as a tribute to the breed.
  • In 1977, the Pyrenean Mastiff was acknowledged as a modern purebred dog by the “Club del Mastín del Pirineo de España.”
  • In 1985, the Dogo Argentino Club was developed to work towards the betterment of this breed.
  • In the 1830s a Newfoundland and Barry der Menschenretter (now known as the Saint Bernard) were cross bred to produce the Leonberger.
  • In the 1970s a group of fans started a job of recovery of the breed through the few specimens that were in the countryside and still had typical features of the ancient mastiff.
  • In the 1970s, the Aragon region was once again plagued by wolves, and Pyrenean Mastiff breeding was renewed.