Pyrenean Mastiff

Group: Utility
Size: Extra large
Lifespan: 10-12 years
Exercise: Medium
Grooming: Medium
Trainability: Medium
Area of Origin: Spain
Date of Origin: Middle Ages
Other Names: Matin d'Aragon, Matin de Navarre
Original Function: Sheep guardian

History
The Pyrenean Mastiff (PM) was developed on the southern slopes of the Pyrenees Mountains in Spain. It is not to be confused with a closely related French breed, the Great Pyrenees. Some experts believe the Pyrenean Mastiff is the product of a cross between the Great Pyrenees and the Spanish Mastiff. Over the centuries, they guarded flocks during the Transhumante, the formal mass migration of the flocks up and down the mountainside with the change of the seasons. The breed was recognised in the late nineteenth century.

Temperament
This breed is affectionate and calm, and has a noble bearing. This breed is also courageous and can be formidable with strangers, never backing down if property, owner, or animals under its charge are threatened. The Pyrenean Mastiff has a deep, loud bark. Pyrenean Mastiffs are dogs that are happy to please their owner and enjoys their owners company. The PM is a breed that is playful and not difficult to train and firm training should start early due to their eventual large size.

Upkeep
This breed is well-suited to family life, but because of its size should have plenty of room and exercise to stay in shape. A moderate walk will usually suffice. In comparison to the Great Pyrenees they will not consume food sparingly so care must be taken that they do not get too heavy as this can be hard on their joints! In the warmer weather ensure that the PM has shade and plenty of water. This breed can live outdoors in temperate to cold weather, although it enjoys being with its family indoors. Its coat needs brushing once or twice weekly, daily when shedding and regular grooming in between. A well fenced property is a requirement and an awareness of barking as a dog bred to guard must also be noted. 

Breeders

Unfortunately there are no known breeders of the Pyrenean Mastiff at this time. Please take a look at some alternative suggestions below or if you know of a registered breeder please contact us.

You may also be interested in:

• Newfoundland

• Tibetan Mastiff

• Great Pyrenees

Breed information sourced from: https://www.dogsnz.org.nz
Images sourced from Google Images.
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