Spanish Alano - description of the breed and character of the dog

The breed of Spanish Alano comes from Spain. These dogs are also often called Spanish Bulldogs. They are quite large in size. They gained their popularity at a time when they participated in bullfights.

Origin

This breed of dogs got its name from the word "Alans". This is the name of a tribe who settled in Spain in the 5th century. This tribe led a nomadic lifestyle. Since cattle breeding was their main occupation, they wandered along with the herd. Large dogs were needed to protect the herd. This breed was first mentioned in a 14th-century book. Here, Alano are described as dogs with a very beautiful color and suitable for hunting. In the book they are called Alani. These dogs were used as well as fighting dogs. They were divorced by the conquerors from Spain, who captured slaves and Indians.

The fact that these dogs participated in the bullfight was mentioned in one of the books of the Spanish writer Francisco de Goya, which he wrote in 1816. In addition, Alano was used by wild boar hunters.

After that, the standard of this breed was determined. And already in 2004 this breed was recognized as separate. Authorities admitted that the Alano came from Spain. But the International Cynological Federation did not recognize this breed. In addition, even in Spain itself, representatives of this breed can be found very rarely. But for their character, as well as for their hunting abilities, Spanish Alano are becoming more and more common these days in the whole world. This breed has more and more admirers every year.

Appearance description

Spanish Alano are large athletic dogs. They have a very muscular body. But, despite this, their movements are very elegant and graceful. For a dog of such a large size, this is not characteristic. Males grow approximately 58 cm tall. Their weight ranges from 34 to 40 kg. And females of this breed have a height of 50-55 cm. Approximate weight of dogs is 30-35 kg.

R.S.C.E admits that representatives can have more weight and height. But these indicators are not allowed to be less than the standards presented. The combination of Spanish Alano makes them ideal for use in managing a herd in a pasture. They are also good at hunting for a large beast, as they can keep it.

1. These dogs have a large head, but it is still characterized by sizes that correspond to the body. Representatives have a brachycephalic skull, which is typical for all dogs of this type. Alano have a pronounced, but rather short muzzle. Their lips are black.
2. Representative ears are small. Most often they are stopped, especially if the dog is used for grazing.
3. The eyes are almond shaped. The size is average. The color of the eyes in these dogs may be different. These are all shades between black and amber.
4. The face looks so that it is immediately clear that the dog is very serious and formidable.
5. Alano's coat is short and shiny. It is stiff throughout the body, and on the head a little softer. The longest hair grows on the tail of the dog. It is tough, and in its shape resembles an ear.
6. Color in dogs can be different. There are alano black, gray (dark and light shades). They can also be fawn, red. Spotted alano exist. If the Spanish Alano is fawn or red, then they may have a mask on the walrus. Sometimes on the paws, chest, or jaw, representatives of the breed have white spots.

Dog character

If we take into account the fact that the representatives of the breed for a very long time participated in wars, conquests, as well as hunting and bullfighting, we can say that they have a calm, balanced character. The owners of the Spanish Alano note that these dogs are very obedient, characterized as reliable companions. They also talk about the independence of the Spanish Alano.

To get a representative of this breed, you must have experience with dogs of other breeds. There is a risk that in case of improper behavior of the owner, the dog will take a leading position in the house. This can lead to the fact that the dog will be aggressive with people, as it will consider them lower in rank. Therefore, it is very important to properly raise a puppy.

So, to start a Spanish Alano is recommended only to someone who can show the dog that he is its owner. To do this, you need to have not only experience, but also a sufficiently strong character, as well as the ability to demonstrate it. In case of proper upbringing, the owner will receive a submissive and well-bred dog.

It is very important to pay attention to the socialization of representatives of the breed, as well as to training according to all the rules. Since the Spanish bulldog is large, it is necessary to educate him so that he does not attack people and animals.

Nevertheless, by nature, Alano are protectors, so they are very faithful to their owner and the whole family in which they live. There are dogs that become attached to only one person. But this cannot be said of the Spanish Bulldog. They will be devoted to each member of the family. Those who started a Spanish Alano often say that they show great tenderness and care for children in the family.

But this does not mean that the Spanish bulldog can be left alone with a small child. Even if the animal has been living in your house for a long time, and you are confident in it. It is not known how the child will behave, and how the dog will react to this. Wrong behavior of the child can lead to the fact that the dog will show aggression, or even bite. This can scare the baby.

These dogs are friendly enough to people they know. But in relation to strangers, their behavior is wary. The dog well studies the person himself, his behavior and actions before starting to trust him. But, most often, even the most aggressive person will think about it before showing aggression towards this dog, since its size can be considered frightening. If the stranger still shows aggression towards the animal, the dog will react quickly and swiftly.

A distinctive feature of the breed is that these dogs will always protect the owner well from strangers. But, if the situation does not require this, then they will not show too strong aggression. The dog will rush at the offender or robber, but if the stranger does not provoke her in any way, then he will not touch him. This is the reason that Spanish bulldogs are often used for protection. She bark infrequently. This can be heard only in the case when someone encroaches on his territory. If you start this dog, it is recommended to have a high fence in the yard to protect passers-by.

These dogs attack with all their might. Often those who are directed at their aggression die. Other breeds can bite and then let go.But Alano do not pay attention to the fact that the victim is afraid or hurt her. After Alano grabbed the victim, he will keep it. Even if she is stronger and shows more aggression. The dog will let go only when the owner gives it a command. Therefore, these dogs need people who have a strong will and considerable experience. This dog will be a kind of weapon that you must be able to control so as not to harm others.

Spanish bulldogs will live quite peacefully with other dogs. In the old days they lived in packs, where there were dogs of different breeds. But the Alans have the peculiarity of dominating others. Therefore, if the other dog does not give in to the Alano, fights can occur between them. But, if they grew up under one roof, then the likelihood of such conflicts is very small.

Spanish bulldogs are not only good for their practical use and strength. They look good, are faithful friends. In addition, Alano is very smart. This means that they remember the teams well during training. But so that the dog does not get bored, it is necessary to conduct training in an interesting and varied way.

Previously, they were used by people for hunting, grazing, as well as for fighting. This did not stop them from becoming excellent watchdogs in the modern world. It is best to keep representatives of this breed in a private house, where they could freely move around the area.

Care

Health

Spanish Alano are distinguished by good health. To date, there is no evidence of the diseases these dogs suffer from. But they may have dysplasia, which is common to all representatives of large breeds. When you buy a little puppy, find out if his parents had this disease. It is better to buy puppies in reliable nurseries. When you purchase an animal from an unreliable seller, you can stumble upon a cross or a sick dog. Serious breeders only select puppies without deviations. They are engaged in their vaccinations and education.

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