Spanish Mastiff

Overview of Spanish Mastiffs

  • Spanish Mastiffs are prone to hip and joint issues, so make sure your pup maintains a healthy weight and, if possible, see if either parent of the dog was ever diagnosed with any type of hip or knee dysplasia, as genetics play a big role in those conditions.
  • Spanish Mastiffs are especially prone to a life-threatening heart condition known as dilated cardiomyopathy, or DCM, in which the heart becomes so large, thin, and weak that it can no longer effectively pump blood to the body.
  • Spanish Mastiff Dog Breed The Mastín Español or Spanish Mastiff, is a giant breed of dog, originating in Spain, originally bred to be a guard dog whose purpose is to defend livestock from wolves and other predators.
  • Spanish Mastiffs are closely connected with the seasonal cycle of moving livestock from pasture to pasture, especially sheep, which they have been protecting from wolves and other predators since the Middle Ages.
  • The Spanish Mastiff is a large to giant breed from Spain that has been around for thousands of years working with farmers and shepherds helping to guard livestock, mostly sheep but a fewtimes cattle too.
  • The Spanish Mastiff is an average to above average breed when it comes to grooming, its heavy shedding means it needs daily brushing and there will be clean up needed around the home.
  • Spanish mastiff showed substantial alternativeiation from all Portuguese livestock guarding dogs, although to a much lesser extent from Estrela Mountain dog and Alentejo Shepherd dog.
  • Spanish Mastiffs are very territorial by nature and will not typically enjoy the presence of another dog, and a few may even express aggression towards cats and dogs in their home.
  • Spanish Mastiffs have gone by several names throughout the years, as they are such an old breed, but two of the more common names include the Mastín Español and Mastín de España.
  • The Spanish Mastiff is in no way hypoallergenic friendly as they shed a good amount of their coat during the spring and summer months. 
  • Barking

    Spanish Mastiffs are prone to annoyance barking.Their short, dense coat should be brushed regularly and their need for exercise is moderate.This breed can adapt to most climates, but prefer dry climates.

    Breed

    (Wikipedia)The Spanish Mastiff, or Mastín Español is a large breed of dog, originating in Spain, originally bred to be a livestock guardian dog and a guard dog whose purpose is to defend livestock from wolves and other predators.

    Cancer

    Cancer is a leading cause of death among dogs in their golden years.Early detection is critical!Many cancers are cured by surgically removing them, and some types are treatable with chemotherapy.We’ll do periodic blood tests and look for lumps and bumps at each exam.Your Spanish Mastiff is a bit more prone to certain kinds of cancer starting at a younger age.

    Coat

    The Spanish Mastiff has a medium length, double coat, which was advantageous for this breed in the past since these working dogs were oftentimes in extreme weather conditions, and their coats protected them.These dense coats will naturally protect your pup from the cold, too, but it’s important for the Spanish Mastiff to have access to shade and water if they’re outside in very hot temperatures.

    Energy

    As with all dogs, the Spanish Mastiff’s dietary needs will change from puppyhood to adulthood and will continue to change into their senior years.You should ask your veterinarian for recommendations about your Spanish Mastiff’s diet, as there is far too much variation among individual dogs–including weight, energy, and health–to make a specific recommendation.

    Genetic Predispositions

    At the end of the booklet, we have also included a description of what you can do at home to keep your Spanish 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 Spanish 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.

    Health

    These dogs tend to be fairly inactive while indoors but will need a slow paced walk once or twice a day and a large yard to roam around in to burn off extra energy, especially as puppies.

    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.Spanish Mastiffs are susceptible to bacterial and viral infections—the same ones that all dogs can get—such as parvo, rabies, and distemper.

    Obesity

    But they do enjoy long walks every now and again and generally need one hour of exercise each day.The Spanish Mastiff is prone to obesity and health issues which is why exercise is important.They aren’t very active and some adults could sleep all day if they’re allowed too!

    Personality

    Obedience training can pose a challenge to those without strong personality types, but it’s imperative that a dog of this size is well trained and respects their owner while young.One of the most predominant qualities of the Spanish Mastiff is their tough, stubborn, and independent personality.While they are a very intelligent breed, they will often do what they please, so they also need a strong pack leader and plenty of structure early on in life.

    Social

    Still, in some instances, a Spanish Mastiff puppy raised and socialized with other animals while young may have a chance at being able to cohabitate with other pets as an adult.While a Spanish Mastiff generally won’t get along with other pets, it may come down to luck of the draw and training.

    Temperament

    Spanish Mastiff dog breed information, pictures, care, temperament, health, breed history, puppies.

    Training

    When doing obedience training with this breed, it can be challenging because the Spanish Mastiff likes to do what it pleases, and it is very intelligent.

    Are Australian Shepherds Protective?

    The Spanish mastiff, bred to defend herds of livestock, dates back more than 2,000 years.In 1526, approximately 3.5 million Merino sheep migrated in Spain, accompanied by one Spanish mastiff per 100 sheep to defend the flock against wolves.To this day, the Spanish mastiff has retained his protective instinct and demonstrates many of the same characteristics as other livestock guarding dogs.

    Are Spanish Mastiffs Friendly Or Dangerous To Strangers?

    Wanting to adopt a Spanish Mastiff and need to know whether Spanish Mastiff are friendly or aggressive to strangers?

    According to pet experts, Spanish Mastiff Dogs score out of 5 in the scale of breeds that are considered the friendliest dogs to strangers.

    Are Spanish Mastiffs Good With Children?

    Spanish Mastiffs are patient, which is why they are a great match for children.They are calm and relaxed in the home and will protect their family at whatever costs.They will of course be more playful as puppies, but will still enjoy a ball game as an adult every now and again.

    Are Spanish Mastiffs Good With Strangers?

    This dog has been bred to protect so will often have their guard up.Training and socialization will be needed to prevent this breed from becoming hostile, or even aggressive with strangers.

    Are Spanish Mastiffs Ok With Other Dogs?

    These dogs were known to work around livestock, protecting the herd with other Spanish Mastiffs.They do have the ability to be ‘Gentle Giants’ with other dogs, so long as they receive the right training.

    Are These Dogs Good for Families? ??

    The Spanish Mastiff does well in a family.Even though they are large, they do not enjoy playing around with smaller kids too much.Since they prefer to watch, it keeps them from accidentally inflicting any harm on smaller children.

    Do Spanish Mastiffs Make Good Family Dogs?

    With their famously calm, gentle nature, Spanish Mastiffs make wonderful pets for some families.

    Does This Breed Get Along With Other Pets?

    The Spanish Mastiff gets along well with dogs and other animals that they are raised with, but strange animals are regarded the same way as humans.They can be quite aggressive toward other pets.Taking them to a dog park is risky if they haven’t been properly socialized early in their lives.

    Exercise ??

    These giant dogs only need a moderate amount of activity.With so much bulk, it is a large amount for them to carry around and theoretically works them harder than similar dog breeds.They are surprisingly agile, however, so don’t underestimate their physical capacity.

    Food & Diet Requirements ??

    These massive dogs have a massive appetite.They need around 4 cups of food a day to satisfy it.If they get more exercise as a working dog, they will need more food.

    Good for the First Time Dog Owner? Training?

    The Spanish Mastiff is a big canine that requires a strong leader.It is not a good choice for the first time dog owner.

    Grooming ??

    Spanish Mastiffs have long double coats.They are not hypoallergenic dogs and shed quite a bit, no matter what time of year it is.During the fall and spring seasons, they shed even more than normal.

    Health and Conditions ??

    Giant breed dogs suffer from unique conditions due to their size.Since they are also an ancient dog breed, they have a stronger system than other more modern breeds.Still, take them for their annual or biannual vet checkups so any conditions are caught as early as possible.

    How active is the Spanish Mastiff?

    These dogs are not super active, but it needs a certain amount to stay healthy and being so large this means a short walk around the block is just not enough.It may be large more likely to lumber around than run at high speeds, but in fact it can actually move a lot quicker than you might expect when it needs to.It is used to having a role or job to to do and is happiest when that is how things are.One or two long walks a day will keep it healthy and happy, along with some play time with you, and chances to have safe off leash time too.It does best in a rural setting, this is not a city dog.It needs a large yard it can move around in that is well fenced and a home a with space too, so it is also not suited to be an apartment dog.Its coat means it can handle all kinds of weather conditions from hot to very cold so it is happy to go out whatever the weather but it does prefer dry to wet.

    How do I go about getting a Pilar Spanish Mastiff puppy?

    Whether you are ready to buy a puppy or you just have many questions regarding the breed, please contact us.  We always love to talk about our dogs and to discuss if a Spanish mastiff is right for you.  Deposits are only accepted after puppies are born.  For details, contact our farm!  If you are ready, fill out an application below.

    How Does Spanish Mastiff Behave Around Strangers?

    Spanish Mastiff, as a guard dog are more protective and guarded of its mater and family.Therefore, they do not trust stranger easily and will bark at them if they try to enter their property.However, if they are introduced properly, they are polite with them.Therefore, early socialization is necessary so that they become a well-behaved adult around strangers.

    How is the Spanish Mastiff with other animals and children?

    In general with good socialization this dog is gentle and patient with children and that really is true for when it is raised with them too.Care should be taken with younger children just because it is likely to knock them over from its size.Make sure all children are taught how to touch and approach it properly.If raised with them and with socialization it can also get along fine with other pets and with other dogs.With other dogs of the same sex there can be dominance issues.

    Is Spanish Mastiff Child-Friendly?

    The Spanish Mastiff is very friendly with children and is protective of them.They adore children and enjoy their company, so they make a great partner for kids.Due to their large size, they can knock over the small kid and hurt them.Therefore, supervision is necessary while letting them interact with each other.

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    So are they Aggressive?

    Typically these dogs are more of a threat to other dogs than they are to humans.

    Training ??

    Training these dogs can be challenging at times because they tend to be dominant.Starting at a young age is recommended for any dog, but these commonly need frequent lessons throughout the rest of their lives.

    what Make Spanish Mastiff Aggressive?

    The Spanish Mastiff is a guard dog but they are not an aggressive dog that people needs to be afraid of.They are kind and gentle even with strangers if properly socialized from an early age.Unnecessary provoking can lead to their aggression like any other dog.But in general, the Spanish Mastiff is not an aggressive dog.

    What will training look like?

    The Spanish Mastiff needs to be well socialized and trained for it stable and calm nature.Experience is needed as a large and dominant dog like this needs their owner to be confident, consistent, patient and firm.It is used to making its own decisions when it needs to and a meek owner will be challenged by it.Things can get difficult when it is not inclined to be obedient.Training sessions should be positive and engaging to avoid boredom, and done with treats and other motivation tools and rewards.Keep socialization going so that it learns appropriate responses to different people, places, situations, sounds, animals and so on.

    What’s the Price of Spanish Mastiff Puppies?

    These dogs have never seen a steep rise in their popularity, and thus, their demand has not grown.It means their average price tag is not as hefty as compared to other highly popular dogs.The price for these dogs normally falls into the $1,000 to $1,500 bracket, even with distinct pedigrees.

    Where Does the Spanish Mastiff Come From?

    Their exact origins are unknown.But, we do know that the Spanish Mastiff has been around for a very long time.

    Why a Spanish Mastiff as a livestock guardian?

    The Spanish mastiff is the ideal livestock guardian.  Being one of the largest livestock guardian breeds, they are able to handle themselves in any situation but normally never have to as their imposing stature and powerful voice are an effective deterrent to most predators.  They are also a very gentle breed that is excellent with their family and loves children.  They are well behaved with all sorts of farm animals from large livestock to  poultry, even other small dogs and cats.  Best of all, Spanish mastiffs are adaptable to a wide variety of homes.  They are more suited to small hobby farms than most livestock guardians as they are more docile, less energetic, and respect fencing.  Do not underestimate them, however, as they were developed to protect sheep over large open ranges in Spain from wolves and other large predators.

    Why choose a  Pilar Spanish Mastiff?

            Our farm started with a couple goats and some poultry.  We soon realized that the local predators were as excited as we were with our new adventure.  In desperate need of a livestock guardian, we tried other breeds and were not satisfied until we researched and found the Spanish mastiff.  We purchased our first two dogs and were instantly in love.  We needed effective guardians that would stay on our farm and not the neighbors.  We also needed dogs to watch over our large family.  Because we were so pleased with our two girls, we decided to import an impressive young male from Spain.  He has been everything we wanted and more.

    History of Spanish Mastiffs

  • In 1526, approximately 3.5 million Merino sheep migrated in Spain, accompanied by one Spanish mastiff per 100 sheep to defend the flock against wolves.
  • In 1526, during a mass migration of 3.5 million Merino sheep, a large pack of Spanish Mastiff accompanied the herd.
  • 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 1925, they created the Dogo by integrating a variety of other breeds, including the Cordoba Fighting Dog, Pointer, Boxer, Great Dane, Bull Terrier, Old English Bulldog, Irish Wolfhound, Dogue de Bordeaux, Great Pyrenees, and Spanish Mastiff.
  • In 1928 Antonio Nores Martinez wrote the breed standard for the Dogo Argentino.
  • 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 1964 the Argentina Rural Society and Cynologic Federation of Argentina recognized the Dogo Argentino as an official dog breed.
  • In 1973 the Argentina Kennel Club officially recognized the Dogo Argentino.
  • In 1973 the Argentina kennel club recognised Dogo Argentino as an official dog.
  • In 1981 the Asociación Española del Perro Mastín Español was formed, who organized a breeding program looking for the kind of large and strong mastiff of the past times, and drafted a new breed standard focused on recovering the old cattle dogs, fit as pets, and as guard dog and defense.[2]
  • In 1985, the Dogo Argentino Club was developed to work towards the betterment of this breed.
  • In 2008, the breed was entered into the American Kennel Club’s (AKC) Foundation Stock Service group.
  • In the 1920s Antonio Nores Martinez began trying to develop a breed of dog that could be a big game hunter in his native Argentina.