The Mastin de Espana or Spanish Mastiff has many common characteristics of other mastiff breeds. A descendant of the ancient Roman Molossus dogs, the Spanish Mastiff was once used for dog fighting, a war dog, and for hunting game like wild boar. The now extinct Molossus' physical characteristics can be seen in many other modern breeds including the Saint Bernard, Rottweiler, and Great Pyrenees. The Spanish Mastiff was particularly useful as a guard dog for the protection of livestock during migrations through the mountains of Southern Spain.

Comparable to the Neapolitan Mastiff, the Spanish Mastiff has a short, coarse coat and a broad head. Coat colors include wolf gray, fawn, brindle, and white. Each coat color will also have markings of black, fawn, or gray. Most clubs recognize this breed in any color. Traditionally, the ears of the Spanish Mastiff were cropped and also featured a docked tail which is practiced less today.

This extremely large dog averages 26 to 28 inches in shoulder height with males typically being taller than females. Average weight ranges 110 to 135 pounds. The Spanish Mastiff has a considerable amount of strength and stamina and is not considered a suitable family pet for the novice or inexperienced dog handler. These dogs are extremely loyal but are noted as being aloof although will die to protect their family.

Common health problems with this breed are comparable with that of other large dog breeds including hip dysplasia and bloat. The Spanish Mastiff's physical features cause them to drool heavily and they are known for loud snoring. Entropion of the eyes and birthing problems can also be associated with this breed.

Spanish Mastiffs are territorial, possessive, and not very trustful of strangers. This breed requires assertive training from an experienced dog trainer. Ample space and sufficient exercise should be provided to help release energy and reduce the chances of behavioral problems.

This breed is recognized by the CKC, NKC, FCI, ARBA, APRI, and ACR. The United Kennel Club (UKC) began recognizing the Spanish Mastiff fairly recently in 2006. This breed is not accepted for registration with the American Kennel Club (AKC) however; the breed is accepted for recording with its Foundation Stock Service (FSS). The Spanish Mastiff is the National Dog of Spain and is extremely popular there but is rare outside of its native country. The popularity of this dog breed in Spain has been compared to that of the Labrador Retriever in the United States.

References:

THE ILLUSTRATED ENCYCLOPEDIA OF DOG BREEDS, by Joan Palmer, copyright 1994.

http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/sp anishmastiff.htm

http://www.akc.org/breeds/fss_ breeds.cfm

http://www.ukcdogs.com/WebSite .nsf/Breeds/SpanishMastiff

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