🐕 Spanish Mastiff (Mastín Español, Matin Espagnol, Mâtin d'Estremadure, Mâtin de la Manche)
The Spanish Mastiff, or Mastín Español, is an ancient breed originating from the southwest of Spain, particularly the region of Extremadura. Used for over 2,000 years by shepherds to protect their flocks of sheep from predators, this imposing dog continues to reliably fulfill its guarding function.
✨ Breed Characteristics
- Name: Spanish Mastiff (Mastín Español, Matin Espagnol, Mâtin d'Estremadure, Mâtin de la Manche)
- Origin: Spain (Extremadura)
- Type: Working dog, guard dog
- Hypoallergenic? No
📊 Quick Facts
- Weight:
- Male: 80-120 kg
- Female: 65-80 kg
- Height:
- Male: 77-88 cm
- Female: 72-80 cm
- Life expectancy: 11-13 years
- Exercise needs: 1 hour per day
- Apartment living: ⭐☆☆☆☆ (requires a large garden)
🧠 Personality (out of 5 stars)
- Intelligent: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Affectionate: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Protective: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Playful: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Vocalizations: ⭐☆☆☆☆ (rare but powerful barking)
- Obedient: ⭐☆☆☆☆
- Hunter: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Calm: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Athletic: ⭐☆☆☆☆
- Independent: ⭐☆☆☆☆
🐾 Compatibility with
- Children: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (affectionate but imposing)
- Other animals: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (can be socialized but caution with small animals)
- Strangers: ⭐☆☆☆☆ (reserved, does not open up easily to outsiders)
- Apartment living: ⭐☆☆☆☆ (requires a lot of outdoor space)
🧼 Maintenance & care
- Ease of maintenance: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (requires moderate upkeep)
- Maintenance cost: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (relatively high due to its size)
- Care frequency:
- Brushing: Weekly to maintain a healthy and clean coat.
- Baths: Should be avoided frequently, an occasional bath will suffice.
- Additional care: Check ears, trim nails, and monitor overall health.
💰 Budget
- Purchase price: 1000-1500 €
- Coût annuel moyen (vétérinaire, accessoires, alimentation) :
🏡 Important note
The Spanish Mastiff is better suited for experienced owners who can provide proper training and management from a young age. It is also preferable for it to live in a house with a large garden, as it needs space to move around. Its imposing size and protective instinct make it an excellent guard dog, but it requires an owner capable of managing its needs and socializing it properly. 🌟
