Spanish Mastiff Breed Description

An Owner's Spanish Mastiff Description
The flocks know him, as do the wolves that stalk them. The sheep know him as a protector but the wolves know him as a guardian warrior. He carries himself with all the pride of a champion and he's aware of his victories. His name is Shotgun, and it refers to his duty with the flock.

My Grandfather tells stories of another time when the Conquistadors used Shotgun's ancestors to fight the Aztecs and Mayans. Whether that is true or not I don't know, but there is no such aggression in Shotgun. He is strictly a guardian and he loves being given that role. He may belong to me but he has given himself to the sheep. He watches over them as a ewe watches over her lamb, instantly coming between them and danger.

Here in the highlands, it's mostly wolves that present a danger; they are struggling to survive themselves. It's sad to see a starving mother wolf trying to feed her young pup; I just can't allow that food chain to include my sheep. And with Shotgun circling the flock I haven't lost one yet, although there have been several close calls. In fact, more than once, Shotgun has had the unenviable task of fending off several wolves at a time. With the exception of Shotgun's badly bitten foot, the pack received the brunt of injuries from the battle. He's a relentless battler who never gives in. I believe that to save the flock, Shotgun would fight to the death.

If there was some kind of annual award given to the bravest dog in the country, I'm sure Shotgun would have received them all.

 

 

Introduction

This Spanish native was used to guard herds and protect property. It has a very gentle nature despite its large size. This breed comes in a variety of colors; most common are fawn, white and gray, and white and black. The dog averages over 30 inches at the shoulder and can weigh up to 230 lbs. Minimum standard height is 28 inches, with dogs of larger size preferred. Average weight is 150 to 180 lbs (females) and from 175 to 225 (males).

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