Find the Right Breed of Dog for You

Dive into over 300 breed in our all inclusive online resource

Pyrenean Mastiff (Mastin del Pirineo)

Large Breed

The Pyrenean Mastiff is very large, strong and muscular with good bone structure and a harmonious build. Despite his large size and strength, he is very well-behaved and congenial towards other dogs.

Read more

Breed standards

Country of origin

Spain

Weight

Approximately 55-73kg/120-160lbs (standards may vary)

Height

Males at least 77cm/30 1/4 inches; Females at least 72cm/28 1/4 inches, however it is desirable that all dogs exceed this lower limit considerably (standards may vary)

Coat

Medium length

Markings

White (yellowish white is undesirable). Well-defined mask and sometimes patches, distributed over the coat, in the same colour as the mask. The ears are always spotted. Coat should be really white at the roots or as light as possible. Patches may be grey, intensive golden-yellow, brown, black, grey-silver, light beige, sandy or marbled. Red patches are undesirable.

Lifespan

Average, 10-12 years

Courageous, proud and alert, the Pyrenean Mastiff makes an excellent guard and watchdog. This breed is an excellent hunter and working dog; however, he also adapts well to become a fine companion and lovable family pet.

Temperament

The Pyrenean Mastiff is calm, noble, very intelligent and alert. Courageous, proud and brave, he makes an excellent guard. The Pyrenean Mastiff is good-natured and very friendly, affectionate and gentle with children, making a wonderful family pet. He is courageous with strangers and will not back away. He is accepting of other animals in his pack and is generally good-natured with other dogs whilst being very aware of his strength. He requires serious training from an early age to ensure utter compliance. Extensive early socialisation is also essential. Whilst this breed is a wonderful companion for some, he is not suitable for most to own.

  • Poor
    Children
    Good
  • Very
    Combativeness
    Not very
  • Very
    Dominance
    Not very
  • Not very
    Friendliness
    Good
  • Not very
    Independence
    Very
  • Loud
    Noise
    Quiet
  • Not very
    Trainability
    Very

Good to know

The Pyrenean Mastiff is a magnificent large breed dog, well-balanced, of medium proportions and covered in a stunning, dense coat. A formidable and powerful defender of property, family and anything in his charge, he is not a suitable breed of dog for all to own.

Positive Plus Icon
  • An excellent guard dog
  • A wonderful companion breed
  • Does well in most climates
  • No trimming or stripping required
Negative Minus Icon
  • Not suitable for a novice owner
  • Requires sufficient daily exercise
  • Regular brushing is needed
  • Strongly defensive