DESCRIPTION AND CHARACTER OF THE PYRENEAN MASTIFF
The Pyrenean Mastiffs is a large, strong, and agile dog, with a balanced, faithful, and nobre character, qualities that make it an excellent family dog, an attentive guardian, and an effective livestock protector.
The first thing that captures attention about a Pyrenean Mastiff is its imposing presence. It is often confused with other similar large breeds such as the Spanish Mastiff, the Pyrenean Mountain Dog, or the Saint Bernard, all of which share similarities in size but are distinct in their characteristics.
It is a tall dog, muscular and robust in build, endowed with remarkable strength, yet surprisingly agile in its movements despite its considerable size.
Arbaniés de Reis D'Aragón photographed by Vanessa Grossemy for Canis Reporting
Photography courtesy of its owner: Vanil des Artses
Photography courtesy of its owner: Vanil des Artses
Its structure is harmonious and well-proportioned, with a broad chest and a large, strong head. Its sturdy neck features elastic and thick skin, its skeleton is compact, and its legs are strong and thick, presenting a rectangular silhouette in profile. Its eyes are small, dark, and expressive, reflecting its intelligence and kindness.
Its coat is dense, thick, and moderately long, generally white with well-defined patches, a characteristic mask, and spotted ears that hang down the sides of its head.
These specimens are usually quiet dogs that rarely bark without reason. When they do, their bark is deep and grave, conveying authority and deterrence.
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The character of the Pyrenean Mastiff wins the hearts of those who share their lives. It is a balanced dog, of great nobility and kindness towards its own, a loyal, affectionate, and intelligent family companion, as well as brave and confident in the face of danger.
Their nobility and gentleness with family members, especially children, do not conflict with their guarding ability. They are observant and territorial dogs that will alert to any strange presence with powerful and deterrent barks. Their intelligence allows them to quickly discern between a welcome visitor and a potential threat.
They coexist very well with other animals, especially if socialization occurs from an early age.
The puppy Aragüés, aged 6 months old, playing with his companion cocker
Photo: Estela Miguel
French Bulldog from Westlife Kennel
French Bulldog from Westlife Kennel
Pyrenean Mastiffs and children
The Pyrenean Mastiff is exceptionally good and protective with children, for whom they feel a special fondness. Their patient and tolerant nature makes them one of the most suitable breeds for families with children. However, due to their large size, adult supervision is always necessary during interaction to prevent accidental falls or bumps.
It is essential for the Pyrenean Mastiff to receive proper education and socialization from puppyhood. Similarly, children should be taught to behave respectfully towards the dog.
Although their origins lie in cold climates, the Pyrenean Mastiff is adaptable and can tolerate warmer temperatures provided they have sufficient shade and fresh water available at all times.
The Pyrenean Mastiff is an indigenous Aragonese breed that for centuries played a crucial role in protecting flocks, properties, and people in the Aragonese and Navarrese Pyrenees. Their morphological characteristics and personality were perfectly suited to the guarding function against predators and thieves they had to perform.
For this task, dogs with sufficient physical strength to face formidable adversaries were needed. Their imposing physique already acted as a significant deterrent. They had to be rugged and resilient to withstand the long journeys of transhumance and the harsh conditions of the mountainous terrain and extreme climate of the Pyrenees.
Vintage photograph courtesy of Rafael Malo Alcrudo
Psychologically, they had to be brave yet gentle and loyal to the shepherds, the flock, and the other dogs. They should not be excessively aggressive but rather calm so as not to abandon the flock at the slightest sign of danger.
Their strong sense of property and their instinct to defend what they considered theirs drove them to protect their owners and their possessions as if they were their own.
In addition to their work as guardians, they also performed other functions, such as guiding the flock through firm terrain thanks to their instinct for moving through the Pyrenean landscapes. It was said that following the trail of a mastiff guaranteed safety in the mountains. They also offered companionship to solitary shepherds during their long periods of isolation.
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Arbaniés de Reis D'Aragón photographed by Vanessa Grossemy for Canis Reporting
Photography courtesy of its owner: Vanil des Artses
Photography courtesy of its owner: Vanil des Artses
For all these qualities, the PYRENEAN MASTIFFS were and continue to be perfect dogs for families, excellent guardians, and livestock protectors.
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