Spanish Mastiff
Španělský mastin
Key facts
| FCI group | 2. Pinscher and Schnauzer, Molossoid breeds, Swiss Mountain and Cattle Dogs |
|---|---|
| Country of origin | Spain |
Recognition features
- Giant, powerful, muscular dog with a massive head and heavy bone
- Semi-long, dense coat in many colours, solid colours most appreciated
- Deep, sonorous bark audible from far away
Purpose
A giant Spanish flock guardian that accompanied merino flocks on their migrations and defended them from wolves.
History
The breed is closely tied to the seasonal movement of livestock, above all Merino sheep, which it accompanied already in the time of the "Mesta" (a medieval association of owners of migrating flocks), defending them from wolves and other predators.
Coat
Dense, medium-length, smooth coat over the whole body; colour is not decisive, with self-coloured yellow, fawn, red, black, wolf and deer most appreciated.
Similar breeds
- Pyrenean Mastiff · Compare
- Neapolitan Mastiff · Compare
- Estrela Mountain Dog · Compare
- Rafeiro of Alentejo · Compare
- Majorca Shepherd Dog · Compare
Learn to recognise this breed and many more
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The information is indicative. Texts are based on available sources and may contain inaccuracies; for binding details (e.g. for breeding or shows) use the official breed standard. Report a photo or rights.