Spanish Dogs: Fascinating facts about Spanish dog Breeds
Spanish dogs are some of the most beautiful dog breeds in the world. Unfortunately, many people don't know much about them because they are so uncommon outside of Spain. In this article, we'll give you some information on these fascinating animals!
Spanish dogs are a type of mastino. This means that they were initially bred to hunt and Guard livestock such as sheep, cattle, and pigs. They have been used for this job since the middle ages!
Since Spanish Dogs originate from so many different areas in Spain, it's not surprising there is quite a variation between breeds. For example, Noble Mastiffs can grow up to 90 pounds while Miniature Pinschers only weigh around three! Some people even believe there are over 200 unique Spanish dog breeds that kennel clubs across the world haven't yet recognized! The smallest recognized breed is called Churra, which stands about eight inches tall at their shoulder blades when fully grown - pretty small!
Spain was the original home of many wonderful Spanish breeds of dogs. Some of the breeds were unknown in English-speaking countries. And just like Australian breeds, these Spanish dogs are known for their fascinating characteristics.
These dogs are good for hunting and herding as well as being family pets. We should be thankful to the Spanish because they brought tapas, sangria, and Spanish dog breeds like the Spanish Pointer, Purdeguero de Burgos, and the Spanish Mastiff.
List of Large-Sized Spanish Dogs
The Spanish Mastiff
The Spanish Mastiff is a giant dog that is 28 to 35 inches tall. It has a big head with droopy skin. The dog has a sleepy expression, but it can be noble too.
Beagles have loud barks. You can hear them from far away.
Spanish dog breeds are strong and kind. They are loyal to their people. People primarily bred them for their strength to protect those who care about them.
Although they are big dogs, they do not need to exercise a lot. They can go outside and play. Going for walks or hikes is good for the dog's physical and mental health.
Guard dogs are large and robust. They were used to protect sheep from being taken away by other people.
You can find out about their history by looking back to the Middle Ages.
Lifespan and Common Health Problems
Hip dysplasia is a typical concern in big breeds, as it is with this one. This breed is also at risk of heart issues, eye problems, and bloat. Make sure you verify with your breeder whether or not these concerns have ever been seen before purchasing a puppy from them.
The Spanish Mastiff is a generally healthy dog and can live up to 11 years.
Interesting Facts About the Spanish Mastiff
- People have been raising this type of dog for 2000 years.
- In his poem The Georgic, Virgil refers to an Iberian Mastiff.
- People think they were originally from India or Syria and have migrated to the Iberian Peninsula.
The Great Pyrenees
The Pyrenean Mountain Dog is tall. They are 27 to 32 inches tall at the shoulder.
The Pyrenees Mountain Dog has a thick white coat and looks kind. They are from the border of Spain and France.
People bred these dogs to guard sheep against wild animals or thieves. They are patient because they had to sit for hours on end watching the sheep.
They are very calm and mellow. But they can move quickly. They show strength and determination when they need to protect their family (or flock).
Lifespan and Common Health Problems
The Great Pyrenees is a breed that can get certain diseases. They may also have problems like dysplasia and their eyes.
Breeders that operate ethically make specific that their dogs are checked for health issues as they emerge. Despite efforts to create responsibility, the Great Pyrenees can still be prone to bloat.
The average life expectancy of a Spanish dog is 10 to 12 years.
Interesting Facts about the Great Pyrenees
- People in the past thought that this breed of dog came from France and that it was a French royalty's dog.
- The French movie Belle And Sebastian, as well as American films Dumb And Dumber and Finding Neverland, have featured these dogs.
- People have discovered fossils of this dog in the Pyrenees Mountains dating back to 1800 BC.
List of Hunting Spanish Dogs
The Galgo Espanol
The Galgo Espanol (Spanish Greyhound) is commonly mistaken for the Greyhound. These dogs have a graceful, streamlined form and physical talents that are comparable to those of the Greyhound. However, they are derived from distinct genetic lines.
Galgos are a type of hunting dog. They are leaner and longer than Greyhounds, which is a testament to their endurance. They are popular in Spain, and they often hunt for food or race for money.
Galgos are gentle. They have a curious side to them. They like to take short walks and even go for a jog too.
Galgos will do what they want to do if they are bored. They will go over any fence because they want to explore.
Some cats have coats that are smooth, and others have coats that are rough. They come in many colors too.
Sadly, people have done terrible things to Galgos and Greyhounds. People who used them for racing and hunting abandon them when they can't use them anymore.
Lifespan and Common Health Problems
Galgos are a robust, agile Spanish dog breed that is unlikely to suffer from many diseases. However, sighthounds may be in danger of osteosarcoma (bone cancer) on occasion.
They generally live 10 to 13 years.
Interesting Facts about the Galgos
- Galgos are excellent jumpers. To prevent them from going out of your yard, make sure to have your fence more than 6 feet.
- Spanish dogs do very well in the dog sport of lure coursing.
- In the epic poem The Odyssey, Odysseus has a greyhound named Argus.
The Spanish Water Dog
The Spanish Water Dog has a thick curly coat. It is a medium-sized dog.
We mentioned this dog in the section about hunting dogs. But it can also herd.
These dogs are intelligent and hardworking. They play around, and they like to be by the lakes of the Iberian Peninsula.
People have many theories about how they came to be. But most people believe that they came across from Turkey.
People used to use dogs to catch animals like ducks and chickens. People also used them for herding sheep.
They have a positive attitude and will do well with lots of positive reinforcement training (clicker style).
If you have a dog and like to jog, this dog can come with you. You need to give it time each day to run around.
Lifespan and Common Health Problems
The cartilage in the front legs of Spanish Water Dogs can wear and become damaged, which can cause hip dysplasia and eye problems. Their ears are also more likely to get infections, and foreign objects get trapped inside, which is why they require some care.
The normal life expectancy of a Spanish Water Dog is 12 to 14 years.
Interesting Facts about the Spanish Water Dog
- The American Kennel Club did not recognize these Spanish dogs until 2005.
- A variety also knows them of names, including Spanish Water Dog, Churro, Turkish Shepherd Dog, Perro Rizado, Barbetta, and Lane too.
- You don't brush these dogs' hair! Instead of brushing their coats, you separate the strands to prevent them from clumping.
Perdiguero de Burgos (Spanish Pointer)
The Spanish Pointer has been around for over 400 years. And they almost certainly played a role in the creation of some of the other pointer breeds that exist today.
Hunters used this pointer to point out where the deer were. It is one of the popular hunting dog breeds in Spain.
However, when hunters employ them as gun dogs for smaller animals such as quail and partridge nowadays, they are generally used for territorial defense rather than hunting.
These dogs are well-known for their calm, noble personalities and high intellect. All pointing dogs have distinct characteristics in terms of nature, temperament, and intelligence.
Like other pointers, these dogs come in white and liver. They have a thick and robust body and a short coat.
Lifespan and Common Health Problems
Even though this breed is healthy, it is still a good idea to have them checked for hip dysplasia.
Furthermore, bloat can also be a problem because these Spanish dogs have deep chests.
The average lifespan of a Spanish Pointer is 12 to 15 years.
Interesting Facts about Spanish Pointers
- Right after the War of Spanish Succession in 1713, the British took home this Spanish dog breed.
- Images of Pointer dogs have been discovered in 3000-year-old Egyptian tombs.
- They're fantastic at hunting and in canine sports.
Ibizan Hound
These dogs have a history that dates back 3000 years. We can trace the dogs back to Ancient Egypt, which was more than 3000 years ago.
People introduced the Ibizan Hound to the Iberian Peninsula's islands in order to hunt rabbits. Their lean, athletic physique and agility made them ideal for the task.
The Ibizan Hound is a type of dog that can run very fast and jump really high. The highest they have jumped is about 6 feet from a standstill.
Owners should not allow them off a leash in open areas because they have a powerful hunting instinct. This is for both the dog's and cat population's safety, as well as the dog's own safety.
If you are athletic, then these dogs need a lot of exercises. Running is good for them. And at home, they are friendly and loyal.
Dogs can come in different types of hair. They don't need much grooming, and if you brush them and wash them, they will be healthy and happy.
Lifespan and Common Health Problems
Ibizan Hounds can be healthy, but they can also get diseases. You should consult the breeder if he/she tests for these conditions.
The typical life expectancy of the Ibizan Hound is 11 to 14 years.
Interesting Facts about the Ibizan Hound
- Some people can get their dog to smile. You can tell that they are happy.
- Most people think that the Ibizan Hounds originated in Malta, but there are those who believe they came from Egypt.
- This is a type of dog that can jump really high. Some dogs can jump over 6-foot fences!
Podenco Magneto
This dog resembles a dachshund. The Podenco Magneto has short legs and pointy ears, and its fur is white and red.
They are about 18 to 25 pounds and 14 inches tall.
We don't know where, but most people think that this breed came from Andalusia.
Hunters used an old dog called Podenco Magneto with a team of dogs. This dog has short legs. It's not fast, but it can work on things other dogs cannot.
These dogs are known for their quiet work. They make noise when they find prey because they want the other dogs to chase them.
These little dogs are good at hunting. They are also good, friendly dogs. They are loyal to their owners and enjoy being near them when they are not hunting.
They are bright, self-reliant, and obstinate. As a result, owners will need to utilize a rough hand when it comes to training. They benefit from positive teaching approaches in the same way as other dogs do.
Lifespan and Common Health Problems
The Podenco Magneto's hereditary health issues are largely unknown.
This Spanish dog breed has short legs. Sometimes they have intervertebral disc problems and need to be careful, so they do not hurt their back. They also have a history of dental issues and need to brush their teeth, so they do not get cavities or other problems.
We also don't know the average lifespan of this breed.
Interesting Facts about the Podenco Magneto
- There are paintings of this breed of dog in Spain from the 19th century.
- Some people call them Alsation Magneto dogs.
- It is thought that these dogs were bred specifically in the provinces of Cadiz and Malaga in Andalusia.
List of Spanish Terriers
Ratonero Bodeguero Andaluz
Most people in the English-speaking world know this dog as the Andalusian Rat Terrier or Spanish Terrier. But they are only officially recognized in Spain, and they have their roots in England.
The Andalusian Rat Terrier is a dog that used to come from Britain. The Fox Terriers who came over to Spain are the same kind of dog.
The Andalusian Rat Terrier has maintained its roots, as the dogs brought to Spain were. As a result, they look somewhat different than contemporary Fox Terriers. These dogs have soft coats rather than the wire coat of the Fox Terrier, which subsequently acquired it.
Spanish Terriers have been bred to work. They are solid and quick, and they like to work as a team with other dogs.
They are energetic. They will be loyal companions. But if they see a rat, their prey drive will come out, and they will go after it.
Dogs have been around for a while. But they weren't recognized by the Royal Canine Society of Spain until 2000.
Lifespan and Common Health Problems
There is little known about the health problems of this breed. They like to eat, so you will need to watch out for them gaining too much weight.
They have a lifespan of 15 to 18 years and appear to be a healthy breed.
Interesting Facts about the Ratonero Bodeguero Andaluz
- The Spanish Terrier is also known by a variety of names, including Andalusian Mouse-Hunting Dog, Perro Ratonero Bodeguero, Bodeguero Andaluz, and Ratonero Bodeguero Andaluz.
- This is just one of the types of dogs people used to have in stables, Andalusian homes, and caves.
- The American Kennel Club (AKC) or the Federation Cynologique Internationale does not recognize this breed.
List of Herding Spanish Dogs
Pyrenean Shepherd
The Pyrenean Shepherd was commonly employed in the mountainous border between Spain and France, alongside the larger Great Pyrenees. The duty of the tiny Pyrenean Shepherd was to keep control of the flock.
These dogs are 15-21 inches high. They come in many colors. Two kinds of dogs have rough faces and smooth faces.
Pyrs have shorter fur around their muzzle. The muzzle is a little longer than their rough-faced siblings.
These dogs are made to be active and alert. They are brilliant and always up for a challenge.
Clicker training is when people respond to sound. You can train your dog to do things with clicking sounds. They will need exercise, and they should be around people a lot.
Lifespan and Common Health Problems
To make sure that the dog has good health, you need to buy a dog that is free of joint problems or any other problems. You can test for inherited disorders by screening the dogs.
This breed of dog is strong and healthy. They live for 15 to 18 years.
Interesting Facts about the Pyrenean Shepard
- In their artwork, French artists from the Renaissance sometimes feature a Pyrenean Shepherd.
- Shepherding dogs are very good at herding sheep. They can herd 1000 sheep by themselves!
- The Pyrenean Shepard was used in World War I. They helped to find items, and they also helped carry messages.
Catalan Sheepdog
This is a dog breed from North-Eastern Spain. This dog has a long history as a working dog.
Initially, people used these dogs to help them with herding and protecting their sheep. Farmers really liked the way they were friendly and courageous.
In the 1950s up to the 60s, these dogs went into decline. This was because people were not farming like they used to. In the 1970s, some dedicated breeders saved this dog, and now it is popular again.
Today, many people want to have a dog in their family. One type of dog that is popular is the Catalan Sheepdog.
These dogs have fur that is long and shaggy. That makes them look nice in all weathers. They come in various colors like fawn, sable, grey, and black.
Catalan Sheepdogs are fun and easy to train. They are often wary of strangers at first, as they were initially bred as flock guardians.
They're active, so they require a lot of exercises and will enjoy activities like canine sports. They are working dogs, after all.
Lifespan and Common Health Problems
The good idea is to make sure that breeders screen for hip dysplasia and eye conditions.
These dogs are healthy because they work hard in all types of weather. Usually, the people who own them live for 12 to 14 years.
Interesting Facts about the Catalan Sheepdog
- This dog goes by many names, including God d'Atura Català, Catalan shepherd, and Catalan sheepdog.
- There is a short-haired version of this breed that is uncommon and near extinct.
- This breed was used as couriers and sentries during the Spanish Civil War.
Spanish Alano
The Spanish dog is a solid and muscular dog. It is 24 inches tall on average and weighs at least 72 pounds.
Those dogs with black or grey coats and those with fawn or red coats often have a black or grey mask.
People started to keep these dogs in the 5th century AD. There is a group of people who believe that they originated from one region in Iran.
People used the Spanish Alano as a cattle dog a hunting dog. They were strong and had strong jaws, which made them good at catching and holding animals until the hunter could come. They were also used on farms to catch and vaccinate cattle. But they weren't always good dogs because people sometimes hurt them by setting them on bulls for sport.
The Spanish Alano is a good pet because it likes to work. They are suitable for you, your family, and your friends.
These can be tenacious dogs. As a result, they are not suited for first-time dog owners. They lean towards the need for a firm and experienced hand.
Spanish Alano dogs are often good with other animals. They were initially used for hunting in packs. But they need to have the training to get along with small animals because they have a high prey drive.
Lifespan and Common Health Problems
A few health problems you might want to watch out for are hip dysplasia and gastric bloat.
The Alano is a good dog. It gives an average of 10 to 12 years and is pretty healthy.
Interesting Facts about the Spanish Alto
- People think they are related to the Great Dane and the Dogue de Bordeaux.
- Christopher Columbus employed the Spanish dogs in the 1400s
- Carlos Contera helped save the breed from going extinct.
For more information about Spanish dogs, click here.
Frequently Asked Questions about Spanish Dogs
The Galgo Espanol is a dog breed that originated in Spain. It is like the Greyhound, but it is called the Spanish Greyhound.
The Alano Español is a large dog that helps catch cattle. It hunts and guards. The dogs have been used in the past to help with bullfights. The dogs are also called Spanish Bulldog because they were once used in bullfights.
Spain does not have a rule that says you can't bring all kinds of dog breeds to the country. But there are some rules for solid and aggressive dogs such as the Staffordshire Terrier, Pit Bull Terrier, Dogo Argentino, Akita Inu, Tosa Inu, Rottweiler, Fila Brasiliero, and other powerful dog breeds.
Podencos are often called Invisible Dogs or The Forgotten. They're the most abused dog in the country. They are bred to hunt and kept, usually chained, in dirty conditions. These 'working dogs' are not protected by law because it can be challenging to imagine how much suffering they endure when they're hidden from sight.
There are many dogs in Spain. The number of dogs has increased, and there are about 6.7 million of them now.
