5 Things to Know Before Owning a Spanish Mastiff

The Spanish Mastiff, a purebred working dog, has a long history of protecting sheep and animals from predators, including wolves. Keep reading to learn more about it and whether a Spanish Mastiff is the perfect breed for you if you consider getting one!

Because they are such an ancient breed, Spanish Mastiffs have been known by several names over the years. Two of the most prevalent are Mastín Español and Mastín de España. These dogs demand knowledgeable owners who can provide them with the proper training. This is why we've put up this extensive list, which tells you everything you need to know before bringing one home.

The Spanish Mastiff is not a good breed for beginner dog parents.

Beginners should avoid these dogs since they are known for their strong-willed natures. They require solid instruction from a person the dog perceives as a leader with a strong personality.

As a breed, the Spanish Mastiff is quite self-confident. While they are incredibly bright, they are also prone to acting on their own will. People who lack strong personalities may find obedience training complex, and experienced dog owners best do it.

Spanish Mastiffs are aloof, loyal, and calm.

With their intense loyalty, they may be excellent watchdogs for your family. You should anticipate hearing an intimidating and fearful bark when they do make a sound since they are extremely wary of strangers.

While they may appear sluggish and content to spend their days snuggling with their owners, these dogs are a bit athletic for their size. Big, cuddly dogs might be intimidating to some owners, but they'll have a great time playing with kids in a large backyard or going for a walk in the park. They are pretty self-reliant and will take some time out to relax on their own own.

They are also tough, stubborn, and has independent personality.

They are a breed known for their high level of intelligence; nonetheless, they tend to act in any way, which is why they require a dominant pack leader and a great deal of early-life discipline.

When training a large dog like a Spanish Mastiff, patience is necessary, especially for new dog owners. Those new dog owners should know the breed's more difficult temperament before getting one of these dogs.

Spanish Mastiffs are skeptical of new people.

Spanish Mastiffs do not make much noise, but when they do, you can anticipate a powerful, menacing bark that will scare away any intruders, given how suspicious they are of strangers.

Spanish Mastiffs are prone to hip and joint issues.

As with many enormous dog breeds, the Spanish Mastiff has several health difficulties that are common to them all. Maintaining appropriate care and frequent veterinarian exams for pets is essential, as some are prone to a few common health conditions. This includes hip and joint issues.

As a result, it's crucial that you keep an eye on your dog's weight. Indoors, these dogs are usually relatively sedentary but require a daily slow-paced walk and a spacious yard to run around.

The Spanish Mastiff is considered a giant breed.

On average, most Spanish Mastiffs range in height from 26 to 35 inches at the shoulder and anywhere from 140 to 220 pounds.

Females tend to be on the smaller side and can weigh roughly 140 to 170 pounds, while males are generally larger and can weigh from 150 to as large as 220 pounds. That said, some can be smaller or larger than average.

Spanish Mastiff’s diet should be formulated for a giant breed with medium energy.

It's best to keep to a regular eating schedule and have smaller meals throughout the day instead of two or three large ones. Also, keep their sweets intake in check.

It's normal for a Spanish Mastiff's nutritional requirements to evolve as he ages, just like any other dog. Since there is so much diversity among individual dogs regarding weight, energy level, and health, it is best to consult your veterinarian before making a precise prescription for your dog's diet.

Spanish Mastiffs are not hypoallergenic.

The coats of Spanish Mastiffs can be several different colors. Black, brown, brindle, tri-colored, or practically any other combination of those hues may be found in these dogs. Because of their coats' heavy shedding, they aren't considered allergy-friendly, especially during the spring and fall months. Think about getting a pet of a different breed if you want to reduce the risk of allergic reactions.

The coat must be brushed weekly and occasionally bathed, so it's pretty low maintenance. Since the Spanish Mastiffs were often found laboring in harsh weather conditions, their coats provided a layer of protection from the elements. The thick coats of the Spanish Mastiff naturally protect them from the cold, but they must have access to shade and water if they are left outside in scorching weather.

Spanish Mastiffs are very territorial by nature.

The Spanish Mastiff isn't the most hospitable dog. But in some instances, if a Spanish Mastiff puppy grows up in an environment where it has been socialized with other animals, it may be able to coexist peacefully with other pets as an adult. Although a Spanish Mastiff usually does not get along with other pets, there is a chance that training and good luck may change that.

Spanish Mastiffs are droolers.

Due to the fact that saliva tends to build in their enormous jowls, all mastiffs drool more than other breeds of dogs. The Spanish Mastiff is more prone to drooling after vigorous exercise and consuming food or liquid. Always have a fresh cloth on hand to wipe up spills.

Spanish Mastiffs are big dogs. Even when they’re on their best behavior, their enormous size can pose a hazard to children, the elderly, and the disabled. If you live in an apartment, this is not the pet for you.

As with all dogs, oral health is vital for Spanish Mastiffs.

You should continue to wash their teeth, even though they are not known to have any dental problems. When and how to brush your dog's teeth correctly may be taught to you by your veterinarian.

Training and specialization should begin early.

Start teaching and socializing your Spanish mastiff puppy as soon as possible. Due to its size, an adult Spanish mastiff with bad manners might be challenging to control. Teaching your dog basic instructions and good manners may be accomplished through puppy classes. Maintain a lively and varied training environment by utilizing only strategies based on positive reinforcement.

Begin socializing your Spanish mastiff with other dogs and humans as early as possible. Dogs are more comfortable around people if they have had favorable interactions with them.

They are brilliant dogs, but training can be a challenge.

These canines prefer to make their own decisions and may be relatively persistent in their pursuits. Training and socialization exercises should be started as early in a dog's life as possible and should be reinforced as the dog becomes older. Because of its enormous size, it has the potential to wreak harm even when it has no malice toward others. Positive reinforcement works well with Spanish Mastiffs. Treats are a big motivator for them.

Spanish Mastiffs are low-energy dogs.

Even though the Spanish mastiff isn't a high-energy breed, it needs adequate space for regular exercise. Grooming this animal is a piece of cake. Further care should be paid to training and socializing to guarantee that the dog is pleasant and well-behaved.

Make sure your dog gets at least one hour of exercise every day. Walking, hiking and playing fetch are all excellent ways to spend time with your dog. Also, puzzle toys may keep your dog cognitively stimulated.

For this giant dog to receive some exercise, he should be allowed to run around in an enclosed area without a leash. Aside from its sociability issues, this breed may not be ideal for dog parks.

These dogs love children, but caution should be exercised due to their size.

The Spanish Mastiff is a giant breed of puppy, and they like the company of young children. Because of their large size, these dogs pose a significant risk of damage to younger children during play with other kids. On the other hand, they are incredibly protective of the children in their own families and should never be left unattended.

Because of their strong sense of territory, Spanish Mastiffs often do not get along well with other canines; they become hostile against cats and other dogs if they share their house with them. It's possible that having one of them as a pet in the house is better for them.

Spanish Mastiffs are excellent guard dogs.

Spanish Mastiffs make excellent guards and working dogs since they are courageous and intelligent. They can, however, be independent and strong-willed, and inadequate teaching can result in undesirable behaviors. Due to the enormous size of this dog breed, these actions may have serious repercussions.

These gentle giants are ideal watchdogs and family pets due to their protective, loving, and calm temperaments. The Spanish Mastiff is a strong-willed breed not recommended for first-time dog owners. They require instruction from someone with a dominant personality type whom the dog can look up to and respect as a leader to succeed.

They're a large breed, and even though they might be lethargic, they're not ideal for living in a small space. They'll be fine with families or single owners as long as they're well cared for. If you're looking for a strong and noble companion who will protect your home at all costs, this may be the breed for you!