Pyrenean Mastiff
Other names: Navarra Mastiff

The Pyrenean Mastiff is a large, imposing dog. Although they have huge, barrel-like frames, the Pyrenean Mastiff is very quick on its feet. These dogs are also completely fearless; they were first bred to protect livestock from wolves and beers. Despite their intimidating stature, the Pyrenean has a soft, loving, and even docile nature when it's not on guard duties. These gentle giants form really strong bonds with their owners and enjoy being around young children. Pyrenean Mastiffs don't require massive amounts of exercise, but they do need lots of space to feel comfortable.
Key facts about the Pyrenean Mastiff
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Origins and history
The Pyrenean Mastiff was developed in the Aragon and Castilla regions, which we now know as modern day Spain. These large, courageous dogs protected livestock and fought off bears and wolves in the process. Unsurprisingly, they became a popular choice for farmers and herders in and around the Pyrenean mountain ranges. They remained popular until the outbreak of the Spanish civil war. Given the hardships many people faced, the Pyrenean Mastiff was simply too expensive to take care off, and their numbers began to decline. Luckily for modern-day dogs lovers, a group of breeders started to re-establish the Mastiff during the 1970s. It was then recognised by the International Federation of Kennel Clubs (FCI) in 1982.
FCI breed nomenclature
FCI Group
Group 2 - Pinscher and Schnauzer - Molossoid and Swiss Mountain and Cattledogs
Section
Section 2 : Molossian type
Physical characteristics of the Pyrenean Mastiff
Adult size
Female : Between 28 and 30 in
Male : Between 30 and 31 in
Weight
Female : Between 121 and 154 lb
Male : Between 121 and 154 lb
Coat colour
White or coloured coat with large dark markings, especially around the face and back.
Type of coat
The hair is mid-length.
Thick, dense coat.
Eye colour
Brown
Description
A very large dog with a solid, muscular build. The Pyrenean Mastiff has a sizable head and a deep, broad chest. The hindquarters are exceptionally strong and sturdy. Their tails are set quite high and are very strong and flexible. Despite its appearance, the Pyrenean Mastiff is light and nimble on its feet, displaying the kind of agility and athleticism rarely seen in giant dog breeds.
Good to know
The Pyrenean Mastiff is quite a rare breed in the UK. Potential owners will need to contact a specialist breeder and are likely to spend a few months on a waiting list.
These big dogs are big droolers. They can also be very “gassy.”
They're loyal and affectionate towards their families, but they can be suspicious of strangers.
The Pyrenean Mastiff is a brave and confident dog that is likely to confront a "stranger." The importance of socialisation can't be overstated when it comes to owning one of these powerful animals.
Temperament
Behaviour of the Pyrenean Mastiff
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Is the Pyrenean Mastiff right for you?
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Compatibility
Price
The average cost of a purebred Pyrenean Mastiff registered at the Kennel Club is approximately £700.
You'll also need to budget around £120 month for feeding costs.
Grooming
Despite their thick, heavy coats, the Pyrenean Mastiff doesn’t require much grooming. You’ll need to give their coat a quick brush twice a week and they do tend to shed quite heavily during spring and autumn.
Shedding
Shedding is important.
Nutrition of the Pyrenean Mastiff
These big dogs have big appetites, although it tends to decrease as they grow older. They need 3-4 cups of high quality dog food split into two meals. They also need access to fresh drinking water.
Health of the Pyrenean Mastiff
Life expectancy
The average lifespan for these dogs is between 8-10 years, although some can make it to 12 or 14.
Strong / robust
These dogs are strong, robust, and very tough. Not only were they breed to survive inhospitable mountain conditions, but they would often protect the livestock by fighting off bears and wolves. And it doesn't get much tougher than that!
Withstand heat
Its thick, dense coat means that the Pyrenean Mastiff is not suited to the warmer climates. So try to keep them out of the heat, especially when they're very young. Pyrenean puppies are full of energy and love to play; they can easily overheat if the temperatures soar.
Withstand cold
These mountain dogs have no problem dealing with the cold. Like most other cattle and herding dogs, they have a thick double coat that insulates them from the worst weather conditions. If they can survive for hundreds of years in the mountains, they’ll have no trouble getting through the average British winter.
Tendency to put on weight
This dog is very greedy, you must be careful not to over feed him.
Common illnesses
- Elbow Dysplasia
- Hip Dysplasia
- Cataracts
- Arthritis
- Bloat
- Glaucome
- Cataracts
- Hyperthyroidism