Spanish Mastiff

Video: Spanish Mastiff

History of the Spanish Mastiff breed

The past of the Spanish Molossians goes back to the sky-high antiquity. The first literary mention of the breed dated back to the second half of the IV century BC. It became Virgil's didactic poem "Georgica" – a colorful narrative about cattle breeding, agriculture and viticulture of that time.

There are versions that mastiffs appeared much earlier: long before the Roman invasion of the Iberian Peninsula. One theory connects dogs with Phoenician merchants, the second – with nomads from Asia. "Spaniards" have an external resemblance to tibetan mastiffs , caucasian and Sharplanin sheepdogs, which suggests that these breeds have a common ancestor.

The first Spanish mastiffs were more modest in size, but they were enough to protect cattle during the crossings. So the representatives of the breed became hardworking shepherds. They were valued for their professional qualities – poise, courage and independence. The latter was extremely important, because at night the dogs were left without a master's escort and solely played the role of a watchman.

If necessary, the "Spaniards" could protect cattle from attacks by wild animals: wild boars, wolves and even bears. During the drive, the mastiffs led the herd for several days, doing well without food and not allowing themselves to attack their "wards".

Basically, the Spanish breed was used for grazing sheep. The dog was assigned to a flock of one thousand heads. Mastiffs were subjected to strict selection, evaluating not only their working qualities, but also their external characteristics. First of all, the cattlemen paid attention to the size of the head and the depth of the body of the animal.

For a long time, the "Spaniards" played the role of purely working dogs and did not attract the attention of cynological organizations. The first registration of representatives of the breed took place at the beginning of the XX century. The lucky one was a piebald male named Machako, a participant in the international dog show in Madrid. At the same time, active urbanization has caused a reduction in pastoralists and, as a result, the number of mastiffs. The existence of the breed was negatively affected by the Spanish Civil War and the crisis that followed it.

The breed was preserved thanks to shepherds who continued to keep sheep. It was they who provided the dogs for further breeding. The first standard appeared in 1946 through the efforts of breeder Luis del Portillo. He traveled a lot around the province of Leon in search of the largest specimens for breeding. 20 years later, another breeder, Amodel Alejandro, began working on the development of the breed. His pets became the progenitors of the modern lines of "Spaniards": El Pinotara, Sakariesa Pieto, Erminho Tascona and Manalo Martineda.

The final breed standard appeared in the 1970s, but official recognition of mastiffs took place only in 1982. At the same time, breeder Carlos Solas developed a new dog breeding program. To date, there are about 10 official nurseries where you can get a loyal friend of the Spanish Mastiff breed.

Appearance of the Spanish mastiff

"Spaniards" belong to the Molossian breeds. Majestic and powerful animals in all situations retain a sense of dignity. Spanish mastiffs rightfully deserve the title of Hercules in the dog world!

The breed standard determines the height of animals: for males – from 77 cm, for females – from 72 cm. Sexual dimorphism can be traced: males look stronger and stronger than females. In addition, they are characterized by great care and observation. Body weight varies between 70-120 kg.

Head and skull

The mastiff's head is strong and large, but in comparison with the body its dimensions are harmonious. It has the shape of a truncated pyramid with a wide base, when viewed from above it looks square. The skull is strong and proportional, with a convex profile. Its length corresponds to the width or slightly exceeds it. A bump is clearly visible on the back of the head.

Muzzle

The muzzle of the Spanish mastiff is moderately wide. Its length is in the ratio of 2:3 to the length of the skull. It has a square shape, tapers smoothly from the base to the tip. The forehead is flat; the foot is slightly sloping, but weakly pronounced. The straight back of the nose is lowered, passes to the lobe with wide-open nostrils. The upper lip hangs over the lower one, forming the wings. There are small "pockets" in the corners of the mouth. The mucous membrane is exposed, pigmented in black.

Ears

The dog's ears are medium-sized, flattened. They have the shape of a triangle with a rounded vertex. Set above the line of the outer corners of the eyes. Hanging, close to the cheeks. When the dog is alert, the tips of the ears are slightly raised and bent forward.

Eyes

The mastiff's eyes seem small compared to the size of the head. They have an almond-shaped shape, slanted. The color is brown or walnut; the darker, the better. The fleshy eyelids have a black border. The lower eyelid droops, slightly exposing the conjunctiva. Although the look seems melancholic and calm, with closer contact with the dog, firmness and severity are noticeable.

Jaws and teeth

Strong and wide jaws form a scissor bite. A complete dental formula is required: medium-sized incisors, sharp canines, premolars and powerful molars. This arrangement of teeth ensures a strong grip and retention of prey. This was used by the ancestors of mastiffs, protecting the herd from predators.

Neck

Powerful and sturdy, although quite short. It is set high and obliquely, the musculature is well developed. Elastic leather forms a double suspension at the bottom.

Housing

The Spanish mastiff is the owner of a rectangular and strong body. The withers are well marked. The back is long and muscular, maintains a horizontal position even in motion. It turns into a wide and slightly convex loin, and that – into a croup sloping at an angle of 45 °. The height of the mastiff in this part of the body corresponds to its height at the withers. The abdomen and groin line are moderately taut.

Tail

The tail has an average delivery, tapers from a wide base to the tip. At rest, it hangs down to the hock joints, during movement it rises in the manner of a saber, but it is not thrown on the back or croup.

Forelimbs

Are placed straight and parallel to each other. A strong backbone and developed musculature are noticeable. The long shoulders are set at an angle of 100° to the ground. The elbows, tightly pressed against the sides of the "Spaniard", are directed backwards. The forearms are vertical, forming an angle of 125° with the elbows. Their length should be three times the length of the pasterns. Massive wrist joints turn into slightly inclined and strong pasterns. Arched paws are gathered into a ball, have elastic and firm pads. The fingers end in short claws.

Hind limbs

Straight, differ in parallel delivery. The powerful backbone is emphasized by musculature, the angles of articulation are pronounced. Wide hips move away from the croup at an angle of 100 °. The lower legs are dry and long, the muscles are better developed only in the upper third. The Achilles tendon is strong. The hock joints are located parallel to each other, deflected backwards. The tarsi and metatarsals are massive, turning into arched paws. Dewclaws are acceptable regardless of their type.

Manner of movement

Spanish mastiffs are characterized by a heavy trot without swaying to the sides. The higher the speed, the stronger the dog's limbs are brought under the body, closer to the center of gravity. The movements are elegant, with pronounced strength.

Wool cover

The animals have a very thick coat of medium length, which fits snugly to the body. Shoulders, chest and tail are decorated with longer hair. The shortest coat covers the interdigital spaces.

Color

The color of the Spanish mastiff is not strictly regulated. Monophonic sable, wolf, black, red, yellow and deer colors are preferred. All possible combinations of them are acceptable, as well as markings in the form of spots or a white "collar".

Possible vices

Among the main defects of the breed are:

• minor deviations from the sexual type;
• absence of canines, premolars or molars;
• excessive ectropy or entropy;
• "wobbling" with the hind limbs;
• wavy or long hair;
• unbalanced temperament;
• straight or tucked belly;
• weak lines of the back and lower back;
• cropped ears or tail;
• the tail thrown on the back;
• pointed muzzle;
• weak limbs;
• "Roman" nose;
• direct bite.

Disqualifying vices include:

• non-omission of testicles (on one or both sides);
• excessively low or high tail set;
• depigmentation of the nasal lobe and mucous membranes;
• excessive timidity or aggressiveness;
• stocky or long-legged;
• sharp transition from forehead to muzzle;
• forked nose lobe;
• underdeveloped housing;
• overshot or undershot;
• loose musculature;
• humpback loin;
• cow tread;
• bright eyes;
• fox face;
• rabbit paws;
• amble.

Character of the Spanish Mastiff

Representatives of the breed inherited a restrained temperament from distant ancestors. These dogs are distinguished by independence and self-confidence. The "Spaniards" are not burdened with the burden of nervousness and cowardice. On the contrary, the courage and dedication of animals deserve sincere respect. The mastiff will rush to attack even an opponent who surpasses him in size, and if we are talking about protecting the family, even more so!

Despite the boundless devotion, the Spanish mastiff does not recognize the owner in a soft and indecisive person. The animal needs an unconditional leader and partner, otherwise training and correct upbringing of the pet is impossible. If you are a novice dog breeder, take a closer look at more loyal breeds: pug , to the poodle , golden retriever or Russian toy terrier . Spanish molossians are not the best option for beginners.

Mastiffs subtly feel the mood of others. A representative of the breed does not impose his society, calmly treats forced loneliness, but always greets the owner with joyful barking and wagging of the tail. The dog does not mind the company of guests. However, having felt the atmosphere in the room heating up, the "Spaniard" will show increased attention to outsiders and, if necessary, will stand up for the owner.

In the family circle, mastiffs seem to turn into huge plush toys! They like to receive a caress, respond to it with a joyful grunt, lie at someone's feet and see dog dreams. Dogs have especially tremulous feelings towards those whom they consider weaker than themselves: children or the elderly.

By the way, families with children can hope for four-legged help from a pet. The mastiff behaves like a nanny towards small family members, taking care of them and participating in games. If friends have come to your child, do not leave the dog alone with a cheerful company. The Spanish mastiff can regard shouting and active activity as a threat and will enter the role of a defender. Given the size and weight of the body, this demonstration of strength can end badly for the participants of the "conflict".

Representatives of the breed do not like to compete, because they consider it beneath their dignity, so they get along well with other animals. The exception is decorative rodents and birds. At the same time, the greatest threat is not the instincts of the dog, but its impressive size. Do not leave small pets alone with a huge animal: a Spanish mastiff can involuntarily harm them.

Mastiff owners note: dogs remain puppies in the shower until the age of four. And this means that you have to learn how to amuse a fluffy "child" with walks in the fresh air or new toys. A bored animal is a real threat! When you return home, you will literally find ruins. In an attempt to entertain himself, the dog will easily turn over the sofa or gnaw the leg of the desk. It is worth noting that at night the instincts of mastiffs are aggravated, so dogs can behave restlessly, especially in the absence of the owner.

The positive qualities of the breed include devotion to home. The "Spaniards" will not dig and break the fence, wanting to go beyond the entrusted territory, thanks to which mastiffs do well without a leash.

Education and training

Spanish mastiffs need early socialization, but continue to form psychologically until the age of three. From the first month of life, it is necessary to clearly set priorities: in an improvised pack, the role of alpha is assigned to you. If the animal finds the authority of the owner insufficient, it will have to forget about fruitful upbringing. The "Spaniard" will ignore any warning and command from your side. Together with an obedient pet, you will get a 70-kilogram problem for the next ten years.

In raising a mastiff, it is important to be calm and consistent. The animal does not perceive screams and threats in its address. Since representatives of the breed have historically developed a rather ferocious temper, it is necessary to abandon unfair punishments and cruel treatment of the dog. Otherwise, the dog will hold a grudge and will not become your devoted friend.

Socialization is no less affected by the presence of a dog in society – both human and four-legged. Walk with the mastiff more often, surrounded by other people and animals. So your pet will understand that the world does not belong only to him, and will not show aggression. For the same purpose, it is necessary to change the walking route so that each time the Spanish mastiff learns a new area and does not feel like the ruler of the world.

As for training, these dogs are interested in learning new commands. An important element is encouragement. The mastiff is more willing to demonstrate his skills if you reward him with a treat or a gentle stroking. Do you feel that the training of the Spanish mastiff is out of the rut? Contact professional dog handlers. Under their guidance, the dog will take a course of basic commands, and you will receive useful tips on further education of the pet.

Care and maintenance

Caring for a Spanish mastiff is difficult. The thick coat of the animal needs regular combing no more than three times a week. For these purposes, a metal brush or a wooden comb with sparse teeth is ideal. During the period of seasonal molting, a fluffer or furminator will be needed. Experienced dog owners facilitate the procedure by slightly wetting the "Spaniard's" coat with water with an air conditioner diluted in it, then the hairs are less likely to get confused and combed out without unnecessary hassle.

Periodically, tangles form on the ears, neck and hind legs of the mastiff. To remove them, you can use a special spray or a koltunorez. In advanced cases, contact a barber shop where dogs are groomed. It is not recommended to shorten the wool at home.

Spanish mastiffs do not need regular bathing. If your pet does not get dirty during a walk, limit yourself to a bath day once every three months. Abuse of water procedures threatens hypertrophy of the animal's skin glands and the appearance of a characteristic "dog" smell. As an alternative, a dry shampoo will be suitable, which will visually "refresh" the dog's coat. The product is carefully combed after rubbing into the undercoat.

It is recommended to shorten the claws at least once a month. Of the tools you will need a claw cutter for large breeds of dogs and a nail file to help polish the sharp edges. To facilitate the procedure, you can hold your pet's paws in warm water: this will soften the claws. In the cold season, it is worth getting a nutritious oil to lubricate the pads of the paws.

Do not forget about the care of the mastiff's mouth. The dog's teeth need your attention twice a week. To remove soft plaque, an old brush or a special nozzle on the finger will do. Insufficient hygiene leads to the formation of tartar, which requires the intervention of a specialist. For prevention, include solid food in the diet of the "Spaniard" and please him with new rodent toys.

The dog's eyes and ears are soaked with a soft lint-free cloth. A special lotion or a decoction of chamomile can act as an auxiliary agent. Ensure that there are no drafts until the animal is completely dry.

Proper nutrition is the key to good health of the Spanish mastiff. Owners of dogs of this breed choose natural food or premium dry food. A regular combination of both options is fraught with problems with the digestive system. In the first months of life, the basis of the diet should be foods with a high content of calcium. This will strengthen the joints, which are subjected to more stress with age.

Exclude from the dog menu:

• dairy products in large quantities;
• yeast dough products;
• caffeinated food and drinks;
• large size bones;
• fish in any form;
• raw meat and eggs;
• onion and garlic;
• citrus;
• smoked meat;
• potatoes;
• sweets;
• mushrooms;
• nuts.

The pet's bowl should be filled with clean water – bottled or infused for 6-8 hours.

Health of the Spanish Mastiff

Despite strong immunity and endurance, representatives of the breed are susceptible to certain diseases:

• hip dysplasia;
• inversion of the stomach or intestines;
• third century adenoma;
• turn of the century;
• gonartrozu;
• cataract;
• eczema.

Do not forget about timely vaccination – the key to the longevity of your pet. In addition, regular treatment of the animal from external and internal parasites is mandatory.

How to choose a puppy

The Spanish Mastiff is a "difficult" breed, so you should not grab the first puppy you come across, especially at an attractive price. Choosing a new friend must be approached wisely. Fluffy babies should grow up to three months before they are placed in a family. At this age, the physical and mental health of animals is considered to be sufficiently strengthened.

When getting acquainted with Spanish mastiffs, you need to pay attention to the conditions of detention. The ideal option is a clean and draughty aviary. Those wishing to purchase a puppy with an excellent pedigree can ask the breeder to provide all the necessary information, including information about the parents.

The appearance of the mastiff is no less important: a strong backbone, thick coat, healthy skin and mucous membranes, eyes and nose without pathological secretions. The kid should be playful and curious, not hide and not run away from an outstretched hand. Moderate fatness is mandatory: thinness is a sure sign that the puppy is unwell.

Rely on your intuition – it will tell you which "Spaniard" will form the most tremulous friendship!

How much does a Spanish mastiff cost

Those wishing to get a furry friend of the Spanish Mastiff breed will have to fork out: the minimum price is $350 – $400. Heirs with known "relatives" are five times more expensive: about $2000. The best place to buy a Spanish mastiff is a certified kennel. Animals from the bird market will not be able to boast of excellent genetics and excellent health.