The Spanish Mastiff is the largest dog breed of Spain and is also known as Mast�n Espanol, Mast�n de Espana, Mastin de la Mancha, Mastin de Extremadura and Mastin de Leon. It is believed to be the Largest Guardien Dog (LGD) breed in the world. This mountain type dog was developed from ancient molossus dogs that accompanied Alexender the Great throughout Europe. Originated from Estramadura region some 2000 years B.C, this ferocious live stock guardian was once used to hunt wild boar and also as war dog but its prime responsibility always remains guarding the flock from wolves, bears and other predators.
The Spanish Mastiff is a powerful dog and is called Masten de Leon as this mastiff among dog breeds is what the Lion is among ferel animals. It makes the great defender of the sheep and formidable and worst enemy of wolves and other predators. There are two types of Spanish Mastiff – the Mastin Pesado and Mastin Lagero. The Mastin Pesado is the heavier type Spanish Mountain with a more impressive appearance and it is found in mountain areas of Spain while the Mastin Lagero is the lighter and more athletic, agile and faster breed that is found in Andalusia, Meseta and in other regions south of Spain. Generally, the Spanish Mastiff stands atleast 30 inches and weighs about 140 to 175 lbs.
This well balanced and well boned breed comes with a big, massive and pyramid shaped head with typical mastiff loose fold skin, broad and strong skull and rectangular muzzle. Wet, big and wide nose is black in colour. Hazel colour, almond shaped eyes have soft, noble and intelligent expression which can change to stern gaze in front of strangers. Triangular shaped, flat and hanging ears are attached above eye line. The neck is broad and solid. Massive body is rectangular in shape and comes with straight topline, powerful and muscled back, long, broad and powerful loin and deep, broad and well muscled chest with rounded ribs. Medium length, dense coat is equally distributed all over the body and is preferred in yellow, fawn, red, black and wolf colour.
This breed is NOT recognized by AKC however it is recognized by FCI.
