Pyrenean Mastiff

Pyrenean Mastiff
History:

Country/Date of Origin: Spain/3000 BC

This breed was developed in the region of the Pyrenean Mountains. It is descended from mastiff type dogs that were brought to Spain by the ancient Phoenician traders. Its primary use was that of a guard dog for livestock. Still quite rare, at one time it was almost extinct. The Pyrenean Mastiff is bigger and more massive than the much more popular Pyrenean Mountain Dog to which it is closely related.

FCI Group: 2 (Working)

 Other Names Body Type Personality Coat Health Concerns

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Mastin de los Pirineos

AKC Group: Miscellaneous

Breed Club:

Rescue Club:

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Body Type:

  • Looks similar to the Great Pyrenees Dog although larger
  • Height: 28-34 inches (at shoulder)
  • Weight: 120-155 pounds
  • The moderately long tail is carried low with a slight curve at the end. It is not altered
  • The hanging ears are not altered. They are bigger than those of the Great Pyrenees Dog
  • Head of the Pyrenean Mastiff is more arched in the center than that of the Great Pyrenees Dog

Personality:

  • Responsive and alert
  • Protective of its home
  • Not overly aggressive

Coat:

  • Thick, abundant and of medium length. The Pyrenean Mastiff has less feathering on the legs and shorter hair on the face and head than the Great Pyrenees
  • The allowed color is white with the sides of the head and ears being either black, badger, any shade of gray, sand or red. Colored body patches are allowed and are usually present. A snow white coat such as is found in the
  • Great Pyrenees Dog is uncommon
  • Moderate grooming required

Health Concerns:

  • Generally robust
  • Prone to hip dysplasia
  • Not very long lived
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Tasty Tidbits:
  • Obedience training is recommended
  • Do not confuse this dog with the Great Pyrenees which is similar in appearance
  • Not suitable for apartments
  • Very difficult to find a puppy in the U.S.