El Leonese Mastiff is a Spanish breed which has been developed in rural areas in order to care for livestock. This dog is still dedicated to this type of purpose today, but it is also a very appreciated dog as a companion animal thanks to its great qualities. However, it must be borne in mind that it is a giant race.
This ancient breed of mastiffs is increasingly appreciated, although it is not usually seen in urban environments due to its large size, since you need a large house or an area with a garden to have it. We will see what its character is like and what are the care that the great Leonese Mastiff needs.
History of the Leonese Mastiff
The Leonese Mastiff it is also known as Spanish Mastiff, being a Spanish breed of the mastiff family. The origin of this dog is in the activity of nomadic or semi-nomadic herding, especially in areas where transhumance was carried out and also in those where there used to be attacks by predators such as wolves. These large dogs were used for their abilities to guard livestock and defend it from these threats.
This breed was improving by pure selection, since the strongest and most valid specimens were chosen for this work. Also, this dog was known mostly in rural areas, where it still abounds today, but not in urban environments, where it doesn't really have a function.
During the XNUMXth century, when some transhumance activities disappeared, this dog was declining in popularity, something that was even more accentuated during the XNUMXth century and during the Civil War. Already in the 80s the Spanish Association of the Spanish Mastiff Dog is created, which intends to return to recover the strong dog that served as a guard, herding and also companion dog. At present it is a dog highly appreciated for its qualities, and there are still places where it is used to protect livestock, such as in the area of Galicia, where even the administrations offered aid so that farmers could acquire these dogs. .
Physical characteristics
The Leonese or Spanish Mastiff stands out above all because it is a large dog, with a weight that goes from 50 to 70 kilos in males and 40 to 60 kilos in females. It is a muscular and proportionate dog, with a large head highlighted by the hanging lips. The muzzle is long and wide, the ears are medium and drooping, and the eyes are small in proportion to the large head.
The coat of this dog is abundant, because it is made to be outdoors. As for the color, there is no specific one, although it is quite common to see the golden and brown tones. In any case, you can also find black or brindle mastiffs.
Dog character
The Leonese Mastiff is a dog that has been used as a guard and livestock dog, making it a very confident breed. They are dogs that distrust strangers and are very faithful to their own, with a great instinct for protection. They have infinite patience, so they are ideal to have with other pets, with children and even with the elderly. Despite their size, they will take care of hurting their own, being very attentive to children. It is a dog that is only active when the moment requires it, but is calm most of the time. That is why it can be kept in a house, although the ideal would always be for it to have an outdoor area, since it is where they are most comfortable.
This dog it is very balanced and also very calm. Its use as a livestock and guard dog makes it know how to make its own decisions and is very independent, that is why it really is not a dog that can be easily trained and that responds to orders the first time.
Leonese Mastiff care
The Leonese Mastiff live better outdoors and in places where you can take long walks. Although he may have little activity during the day if he is with us, he is a dog that loves to walk through natural areas. That is why today you can rarely see the dog in urban environments, since it does not adapt well. It is important to take walks with the dog on a daily basis, so we must take this into account.
This dog also needs some brushing, especially in times of change. Although its coat is short, it is quite abundant and loose enough hair, so brushing it is essential. You are also going to require large doses of quality food to take care of yourself.
Dog health
This dog often have bone and joint problems when they are older. It usually has a strong health, not in vain it is a working dog that has been chosen for its strength. You have to give him a good diet so that his bones stay strong and in any case watch out for lameness or bone pain. There are certain medications that can help prevent cartilage wear in adult stages.
La hip dysplasia is quite common in large dogs, so it is also something that can affect you. The osteoarthritis in the legs, especially in the back, it can also be something that arises when they are older. In any case, it will be necessary to visit the veterinarian to see the possible treatments in order to stop or slow down the progression of this arthrosis.
Why have a Leonese Mastiff
This Leon Mastiff is not suitable for everyone. It requires a fairly high expenditure on food and veterinary medicine in case of illness. Also, it is always better to have it if we have a large garden or natural areas nearby From home. However, it has become a good companion dog because it is very patient and affectionate, as well as a really faithful dog. You just have to bear in mind that we must provide the best environment, and that in places like the city or locked at home all day they will not be happy. If we have a suitable space for this dog, it can be a perfect companion dog.