Pyrenean Mastiff

Vital Statistics:

Place of Origin: Spain

Group: Guard dog

Height: males 30-32 in.; females 28-29 1/2 in.

Weight: 120-180 lbs.

Life span: 10-12 yrs.

Trainability: high

Good with children: yes, although toddlers should be supervised due to dog’s size

Good with other pets: yes

What is the origin of the Pyrenean Mastiff?

These dogs appeared in Spain about 3000 BC, brought there by Phoenician traders. The ancient breed was developed on the border between Spain and France in the Pyrenees Mountains. As defenders of flocks, this guardian is outstanding. Like the Great Pyrenees, both breeeds can claim Molossers as ancestors. The job of the Pyrenean Mastiff was to herd and guard sheep as they wandered in search of grazing. The dogs were fitted with spiked collars to protect their necks when fighting off predators. Pyrenean Mastiffs made their debut in the U.S. in 1996.

What does the Pyrenean Mastiff look like?

Pyreanean Mastiffs are massive dogs weighing between 120-180 lbs., some males can be as large as 220 lbs. Height for males is no less than 30 inches to about 32 inches; females, no less than 28 inches to about 29 1/2 inches. Eyes are almond-shaped, small and dark. Ears are medium size, triangular and dropping close. The tail is fringed with a curl at the tip and carried low. Some of this breed have double dewclaws on the back legs which help the dog balance in the snow. The coat is double, dense, thick and coarse, medium long. Coat is longer on neck and tail with feathering on the legs. Color is white with a well-defined mask. There can be irregular patches of color matching the mask: any shade of gray, golden, brown, black, sand or marbled. The coat should be brushed at least once weekly to prevent matting.

What is the temperament of the Pyrenean Mastiff?

While the Pyrenean Mastiff is fearless and courageous, it is also gentle, loyal, calm and trustworthy. As with all dogs, early obedience training and socialization are important, always with a kind hand. These Mastiffs are good with other dogs and pets. They are very protective of children. They have a deep, loud bark which they use when strangers approach as a first line of defense. Once introduced to friends, they are accepting. Pyreneans need a moderate amount of exercise but are not really happy living in the confines of an apartment.

What is the Pyrenean Mastiff used for?

The Pyrenean Mastiff is still used for herding and makes an excellent guard and defender of home and family. They make loving, loyal family companions.

Possible Health Issues

Entropion, ectropion, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), hip dysplasia, panosteitis, jaw abnormalities, bloat/gastric torsion