Pyrenean Mastiff

The Pyrenean Mastiff descended from a very ancient breed known as the Molosser, which is at one time a large and imposing dog called the Navarra Mastiff. Originally bred to guard and protect large flocks of sheep from wolves and bears. Some farm owners will even put spiked collars around the dogs' necks for extra protection during attacks.

Pyrenean Mastiffs have existed since the Middle Ages and were all over Europe including Spain and France. It is believed they were brought by Viennese and Phoenician traders to Europe. There are over four types of mastiff dogs developed in different regions along with the Pyrenean Mastiff.

The Pyrenean Mastiff is a favourite dog breed in its native land but was only recognised by the Club del Mastin del Pirineo de España in 1977. It was also recognised and accepted by The Kennel Club and the FCI in 1982.

The Pyrenean Mastiff is a giant dog, weighing 179 to 220 pounds and standing 71 to 81 centimetres with a well-balanced build. It is sturdy and muscular with a strong bone structure. It has a large and moderately long head, muzzle that tapers to the tip and a gentle stop. Its nose is large, wide and colour black, while its eyes are small and almond-shaped with the colour of dark hazel. This dog has an alert and noble expression. The ears are medium-sized, shaped like a triangle and are set above the eyes, hanging close to the cheeks.

Pyrenean Mastiffs wear a dense medium-length coat that is thick and coarse in texture. The hair is slightly longer on its shoulders, neck, belly, legs and tails compared to the rest of the body. The accepted colours include snow-white ground with patches of grey, golden yellow, brown, black, light beige, grey silver, sandy, or marbled.

Socialisation and training at a young age will help Pyrenean Mastiffs develop their confidence to become well-adjusted adult dogs. They are intelligent and desire to please its owners, so they are relatively easy to train. Since this is a working dog breed, they are most happy when they are given some work to do which is why they are willing to learn new things.

When socialised at an early age, they get along well with other dogs, but they will never back down from a fight when threatened. The Pyrenean Mastiff gets on well with the family cat especially one they have grown up with. However, since it has a high prey drive, it will think nothing of chasing neighbours' cats and smaller animals as fair game.

• Senior and less active: up to 3290 calories daily
• Typical adults: up to 3710 calories daily
• Physically active/working dogs: up to 4120 calories daily

Are you planning to buy a Pyrenean Mastiff puppy? It seems easy but can be challenging when it comes to the financial side. Buying a dog means a change in lifestyle as it becomes a part of the family that needs to be fed and given proper care. With this said, having a dog means spending money for its care. Below is a quick breakdown of some significant costs:

• The cost to buy a Pyrenean Mastiff puppy is around £600 to £800. However, since it is a rare breed in the UK, you will have to be on a waiting list.
• Pet insurance will set you back around £60 to £120. The insurance cost will depend whether you choose a basic cover or a lifetime.
• Large dogs require more calories, which translates to more in each serving daily. For a Pyrenean Mastiff, dog food will cost about £80 to £90 a month.
• Veterinary care will also be quite expensive. In a year, regular vet visits, vaccinations and boosters will likely cost you around £1500.
• Let's not forget the dog supplies and equipment needed to have the dog comfortably settled in. Dog supplies usually cost around £200, but luckily, it is a one-time purchase.