Spanish Mastiff

Other names : Spanish Mastin, Leon’s Shepherd Dog, Channel Shepherd Dog, Extremadura Shepherd Dog

Photo: adult dog of Spanish Mastiff breed
Photo: puppy of Spanish Mastiff breed
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Life expectancy

The Spanish Mastiff has a life expectancy of between 10 and 12 years

Temperament

Size

Large

Adult size

Female Between 28 and 30 in
Male Between 30 and 31 in

Adult weight

Female Between 132 and 198 lb
Male Between 132 and 198 lb
Coat colour
Black White Brown Blue Red Sand
Type of coat
Long Hard
Eye colour
Brown

Purchase price

The Spanish Mastiff costs between £655 and £1125

Good to know

More details about the Spanish Mastiff

Spanish Mastiff: Origins and history

The Spanish Mastiff is a very old dog that descends, like all Molosser types, from the Molosser of Tibet who arrived in Europe through Asia Minor. It is believed that the Spanish Mastiff was first used by Spanish shepherds 4,000 years ago and is considered to be the oldest breed in the country. The nature and climate of Spain have always forced shepherds to practice transhumance, i.e. to move their herds to areas of pasture that are sometimes very far away. For centuries, the Spanish Mastiff has been the protector of livestock, especially merino sheep, whose history is closely linked to that of this dog. In modern times, with the gradual disappearance of shepherd activity, the breed almost died out. The breed has now been rebuilt but with many difficulties and a good homogeneity of the type has not yet been found.

FCI classification of the Spanish Mastiff

  • Group 2 - Pinscher and Schnauzer - Molossoid and Swiss Mountain and Cattledogs

  • Section 2 : Molossian type

Training a Spanish Mastiff

When they are puppies, the Spanish Mastin, as they are called in their country of origin, must adopt the rules of life and educational principles to integrate as well as possible within their families and, more generally, within society. 

Sometimes stubborn, it is not always easy to motivate them, but a good relationship between a master and his dog always achieves good results. 

For cooperation to be effective, no brutality must come into play in the education of this soft-hearted colossus. Even if they are imposing, it is the gentle methods that allow them to become the balanced dog they deserve to be.

In consideration of their size, it is primarily the basic orders as well as socialisation that must be prioritised to maintain control over them, in any situation.

Spanish Mastiff: Purchase price

The price of a Spanish Mastiff varies according to their origin, age and gender. One would be looking at £1125 on average for a dog registered with the KC. 

Concerning the average budget to support a dog of this size, one should allocate around £75/month.

Do you want a Spanish Mastiff dog ?

Diana, female dog to adopt

3 Years

Spanish Mastiff

London

Spanish Mastiff up for adoption Animals for adoption

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