Overview
The Alano Español is a lean, athletic mastiff-type dog from Spain, used historically to hold cattle and wild boar for handlers. It nearly disappeared in the twentieth century and remains rare, especially outside Spain. The build is functional: deep chest, strong jaw, short coat and a lot of muscle without the bulk of a heavy mastiff.
Temperament is typically calm and composed with a high pain threshold and a low tendency to bark. These dogs are not fearful or snappy, but they are confident, and confidence in a forty kilo catch dog has to be respected.
Exercise and walking needs
A fit Alano wants a good ninety minutes a day with some of it at pace. Hill walks, long trots on a lead and a secure field for running all suit it. It will cope with more if asked and does not tire easily.
The coat is short and the dog is lean, so it manages warm weather better than most molossers, though a brachycephalic muzzle it is not. Still, carry water.
On the walk
- Grip: Catch dogs hold on. If an Alano does get into a scrap, breaking it up is dangerous and difficult. Prevention through distance is the only sensible plan.
- Pulling: Steady rather than frantic, but with enormous leverage. A sturdy harness and a lead with a traffic handle give you options.
- Other dogs: Often indifferent until challenged, then unwilling to back down. Avoid bold, pushy dogs and same-sex confrontations.
- Livestock: Bred to work cattle. Cows and sheep may trigger a focused interest you do not want. Keep well away from fields with stock.
Tips for professional walkers
- Agree a clear handling plan with the owner before the first walk, including what to do if another dog approaches off lead.
- Keep walks structured: a brisk lead section, a sniffing section and a rest. These dogs respond to routine.
- Avoid tug games and anything that rewards gripping on a walk.
- Check pads after long road walks; a heavy, active dog wears them fast.
What to ask the owner
- What training has the dog had, and which commands does it reliably respond to from someone other than you?
- How does it behave around other dogs, cattle and sheep?
- Is there any guarding of the car, the house or you that a new walker should know about?