Description. The Pyrenean Mastiff is a massive dog they stand 28-34 inches in height and weight 120-175 pounds. They have a large head with a wide, deep, but short muzzle. The ears fall to the side of their head reaching to about the jaw line. They have a huge muscular neck leading down to their deep chest and very strong shoulders. Their back is level and leads to their mid set tail, which hangs almost to the floor. The rear legs are very muscular and powerful. The entire body is covered in a dense weatherproof coat that is luxuriant to look at.

History. It is generally believed that the Pyrenean Mastiff was first brought to the southern area of the Pyrenees by Phoenician traders about 3,000 years ago. The breed originated from the Asiatic Mastiff. The Pyrenean Mastiff was commonly used as a sheep guarding dog by ancient Spanish farmers, in those days man would not stop the sheep from grazing even if they crossed boarders, only natures predators were a problem. It was common for a team of 5 Pyrenean Mastiffs to handle a heard of up to 1,000 sheep. As such a wonderful dog it is a shame that they are quite rare today.

Temperament. They are a calm dog and seem to have a laid back way of looking at things. However when they are working, guarding a heard, they will happily see off wolves and bears. When they relax they are fine with anybody and pretty much anything, but this changes quickly when they perceive a threat to the family or house. As a breed they represent the best of all worlds they are big and cuddly, they are calm and very friendly, when needed they are aggressive to anything wishing to do you harm. They are excellent with children but be aware if the dog accidentally knocks into a frail person they will probably hurt them, there is no malice or intent it’s just that accidents can happen. They tend to be a little too sedate for much risk of accidents when playing but you must consider the dogs’ size in lots of things. You must assert yourself as pack leader and a firm calm leadership style needs to be displayed. The dog will be happiest when they know their place in the home. Their intelligence assists in their training and they will enjoy praise when they do well at a task. In brief they are wonderful with their family and friends, even pets, but terrifying to any threat to the household.

Health issues. The Pyrenean Mastiff can suffer eye problems, bloat and other intestinal problems. The risk of bloat can be minimised by feeding small amounts more often and never feed within half an hour either side of exercise. They can also suffer hip dysplasia, but this is rare in this breed.

Grooming. They will require brushing or combing every few days and will occasionally benefit from stripping. Beyond that the Pyrenean Mastiff is pretty much a self cleaning dog.

Living conditions. This is obviously a large dog and they require space, they are not ideal for an apartment unless it is a very big one. They will require at least a medium sized yard but the Pyrenean Mastiff does not require quite as much exercise as their size suggests. They will be happy with two 30-45 minute walks a day, but will be happy to have more.