Overview
The Pyrenean Mastiff is a livestock guardian from the Spanish side of the Pyrenees, bred to protect sheep from wolves and bears on the high pastures. It is enormous: tall, heavy boned and wrapped in a long white coat with darker patches on the head. In the UK it sits in the working group.
Guardian breeds are not hounds or gundogs. They are calm, slow to react, highly independent and protective of what they consider theirs. A well-socialised Pyrenean Mastiff is gentle and tolerant, but it does not do things because you asked; it does them because it agrees.
Exercise and walking needs
About an hour a day in two steady walks. These dogs were bred to patrol slowly and conserve energy, not to run. Long distances and fast pace are bad for giant joints, and heat is a real hazard with that coat.
Puppies and young dogs need far less than people assume. Ask the owner what the vet has advised about distance.
On the walk
- Pulling: Not usually a puller, but at sixty kilos it does not need to be. If this dog decides to stop or to move towards something, you go with it. Use a strong harness and avoid situations where it might make that decision.
- Other dogs: Generally tolerant and dignified. Some are intolerant of pushy strange dogs, especially males. Keep greetings calm and short.
- Strangers: Watchful rather than friendly. It will place itself between you and anything it is unsure of. Avoid crowded spaces.
- Heat: A real risk. Summer walks early and short, with water carried.
- Drool: Some drool, especially after water or exercise. A cloth in the pocket is handy.
Tips for professional walkers
- Walk at the dog's pace and resist the urge to cover ground.
- Check your insurance covers giant breeds and that you can physically manage the dog.
- Avoid hot days and hard surfaces for long stretches.
- Look over the coat for seeds and knots after rural walks.
What to ask the owner
- How does the dog react to strangers approaching you on a walk?
- Any joint issues, and what distance has the vet advised?
- How does it behave with unfamiliar dogs, and does it need space on narrow paths?