Pyrenean Mastiff vs Lagotto Romagnolo - Breed Comparison

Pyrenean Mastiff vs Lagotto Romagnolo - Breed ComparisonPyrenean Mastiff is originated from Spain but Lagotto Romagnolo is originated from Italy. Pyrenean Mastiff may grow 34 cm / 14 inches higher than Lagotto Romagnolo. Pyrenean Mastiff may weigh 84 kg / 186 pounds more than Lagotto Romagnolo. Pyrenean Mastiff may live 3 years less than Lagotto Romagnolo. Pyrenean Mastiff may have more litter size than Lagotto Romagnolo. Pyrenean Mastiff requires Low maintenance. But Lagotto Romagnolo requires Moderate maintenance

History

pyrenean mastiff - historyThe Pyrenean Mastiff originates from Spain, descending from ancient livestock guardian-type dogs.

They have always been used as guardians, looking out for livestock and warding off predators.

When you do research you find that there is little information on the exact origins of the dog. It was only in recent years that the dog was taken out of its native region and sent to the USA, but it isn’t recognized by the AKC.

The dog was however recognized by the FCI in 1982.

lagotto romagnolo - historyThe Lagotto Romagnolo dog, known as the Water Dog of Romagna, and falling into the sporting dog category, is a pure breed dog which comes from the Romagna region of Italy.

The dog’s role was that of gun dog and to retrieve water birds. Today he is more used as a truffle hunter in Italy as well as being used for a therapy dog.

In 2015 the Lagotto Romagnolo was accepted by the American Kennel Club into the sporting dog category.

Description

pyrenean mastiff puppy - descriptionThis is a beautiful big dog, strong and muscular. He stands at between 75 and 82cm in height and weighs between 70 and 100kg, males and females.

He has a thick double coat which is fairly long and which also sheds regularly. The coat is essentially white in color with large markings of reddish brown, tan, grey or black.

The Pyrenean Mastiff has a large head with a black nose, small, dark eyes, floppy, medium sized ears and a long tail with lush hair growth.

Temperament:

Large he may be, but the Pyrenean Mastiff is a docile dog that gets on well with children as well as with other pets. He is intelligent but also strong willed and independent, making him a little bit difficult to handle if he chooses to ignore your commands.

Training and socialization will be required if you want him to be obedient and well mannered. He can do well with you as a novice pet owner, so long as you are firm, consistent, kind, patient and fair in your handling of the Pyrenean Mastiff.

Even with socialization, he tends to be wary around strangers and becomes quite protective around his human family.

He is a calm dog that doesn’t require a whole lot of exercise, but he isn’t suited to life on a small property in the city as he needs a lot of space to feel content and at ease.

lagotto romagnolo puppy - descriptionThe Lagotto Ramagnolo is a medium sized dog where both males and females stand anything between 41 and 48cm and weigh 11 to 16kg.

He is well proportioned and muscled, he has large yellow or brown eyes with a black or brown/pinkish nose, floppy, rounded ears and a tail which is left long these days.

The Lagotto Romagnolo has a waterproof double coat with a woolly texture and which hardly sheds, putting him as being hypoallergenic.

The coat can be in a number of different colors such as cream, grey, white, apricot, brown or tan. The face of the dog has a bit of a beard as well as noticeable bushy eyebrows.

Temperament:

  • Jaunty and feisty
  • Cheerful, lively and alert
  • Intelligent and easily trainable
  • Loving and loyal
  • Undemanding

Because the Lagotto is a sporting breed, he has had to call on all his senses to retrieve water birds. Good eyesight, sharp listening skills and an excellent sense of smell makes him the ideal gun dog but he also makes a loyal family pet.

He makes a good playmate for children and he happily gets on well with other pets in the home. Being an intelligent dog, he is easy to train too.

The sporting past of his has made it that he isn’t a couch-potato type of dog and he will require mental- and physical stimulation. His role as gun dog meant that he was required to retrieve birds in water, and he is an excellent swimmer and will happily plunge into water to join you in a swim.

Have him trained and socialized and you’ll find him tuned in to obeying your commands. Because of his smallish size, the Lagotto can adjust well to life in the city or in the countryside, just so long as he still receives his full quota of exercise.

Characteristics

pyrenean mastiff dog - characteristicsThese beautiful dogs have always been extraordinary guarding dogs, but he has some other excellent characteristics that make him such a great companion.

He is a loyal, loving dog and easy to train.

You just have to think twice before you take such a large dog into your home, as he doesn’t like to be cooped up in small spaces. He will also eat a lot too.

You want to know that you can provide the Pyrenean Mastiff with all these things. If you have the means to keep such a large pet, then he will make you a splendid canine companion.

lagotto romagnolo dog - characteristicsMany dog lovers appreciate that the Lagotto Romagnolos is looked upon as an allergy-friendly dog with his non-shedding coat.

Being a medium sized dog, he is manageable too. Add to that excellent characteristics such as being amicable, friendly and loving. Training him some important, basic commands won’t be difficult either and you can add in intelligence to his list of good qualities.

As loving dogs, they are dedicated to their families, getting on well with children in the home as well as with other pets. He is a social dog and just longs to be a treasured member of the family like anybody else.

Count him in with all your activities and you’re going to have a one-in-a-million undemanding and contented canine friend.

Health Problems

pyrenean mastiff puppies - health problemsThis is a fairly healthy dog breed, particularly when you consider what a big dog he is. There are always some health concerns to watch for so that you can take steps to get your pet well again.

Dental Disease:

There is tartar build-up on the teeth and this can lead to infection of the gums and roots of the teeth. Rotting teeth can cause pain, but more worrisome they can cause damage to the heart and kidneys as well as the dog's joints. The vet or professional pet groomers can keep your pet’s teeth clean. They can advise you on how to take care of your large pet’s teeth.

Bacterial and Viral Infections:

Diseases such as rabies and parvo can be prevented by means of vaccine.

Obesity:

You can’t afford for a big dog like this to become obese. It’s a serious disease and can put pressure on your dog’s joints and also cause back pain and digestive disorders.

Parasites:

Your dog can be infected with all kinds of worms and bugs such as ticks d and fleas as well as mites. Some of these parasites can be transmitted to you. Your vet can talk about preventive medication.

Bloat:

Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus, commonly referred to as bloat often occurs in dogs with deep chests.

The stomach twists and fills with gas,and blood to the stomach is cut off. Left unattended to, your dog can die, sometimes within half an hour. His stomach is hard and swollen, requiring immediate veterinary attention.

lagotto romagnolo puppies - health problemsLagotto live roughly 16 years with the best food, exercise and loving environment. Some health issues may well crop up, though unlikely, but it is good to be aware of them.

Hip Dysplasia:

You hear the words ‘Hip dysplasia’ being bandied about a lot in the world of dogs because it is such a common dog ailment. Your dog can’t be cured but there are a range of management options that will ensure your pet remains as comfortable as possible.

It is such a common joint disease where the hips partially dislocate. Without veterinary intervention, it can be debilitating and painful. It is essentially a genetic condition but diet and environmental factors can come into play too.

You don’t want your pet putting on too much weight as this puts extra strain on the joints.

Neuroaxonal Dystrophy:

Your dog has loss of function because of the degeneration of cells or tissues. The illness affects different parts of the brain in dogs. You’ll notice a mild tremor of the head and uncoordinated movements. Your vet will want a history of your pet’s health as well as lab tests.

Caring The Pet

Spay or Neuter:

pyrenean mastiff dogs - caringHave your pet spayed or neutered if you don’t want puppies. Spaying or neutering also decreases the likelihood of certain types of cancers.

Diet:

Nothing but a top quality diet is good enough for your pet. Commercially manufactured dog foods are a convenient means to feed your pet, and there are some excellent brands.

Look out for the ones for extra large dogs and avoid the ones with low quality ingredients. The dry kibble you give your big pet can be made more tasty when you add some homemade food to it about twice a week.

Dogs thrive on simplicity, so boiled chicken, sweet potatoes, brown rice or pasta, carrots and spinach will be wonderful for him when you chop the food up and add it into the dry kibble. Its such a tasty, wholesome treat for your pet.

Some raw meat added in occasionally will contribute to your pet’s heath. Make sure he is never without a constant supply of fresh, cool water.

Grooming:

Brush his coat at least twice a week. Check inside his ears for redness which could indicate an ear infection.

He’s an intelligent pet with lots of energy, so you will need to keep his mind and body active by ensuring he enjoys walks every day. He isn’t a dog that requires running with you on your jogs or cycles.

Grooming:

lagotto romagnolo dogs - caringNot everyone agrees with how to take care of the Lagotto’s rough, waterproof coat of thick curls. The coat doesn’t shed much but it can pick up grass and small twigs easily. Unless brushed out at least 2 or 3 times a week, the coat can become matted and unruly. For many the coat needs to be trimmed regularly.

Exercise:

The Lagotto needs plenty of exercise. His hunting and retrieving past has given him a natural urge to retrieve and he loves going after every ball you throw him. He will also love to join you on your daily walks and it gives him the chance to sniff around. With swimming being added in, this dog is your true sporting buddy.

Diet:

Make sure you feed your Lagotto the very best quality food there is to ensure his well-being and longevity. If you're unsure about whether he is getting in all the necessary vitamins and minerals with his food, speak to a dog expert as good food is key to a happy, healthy dog.

Basic Information

Group:
Working dog
Sporting dog
Origin:
Spain
Italy
Height Male:
75 - 82 cm
29 - 33 inches
41 - 48 cm
16 - 19 inches
Height Female:
75 - 82 cm
29 - 33 inches
41 - 48 cm
16 - 19 inches
Weight Male:
70 - 100 kg
154 - 221 pounds
11 - 16 kg
24 - 36 pounds
Weight Female:
70 - 100 kg
154 - 221 pounds
11 - 16 kg
24 - 36 pounds
Life Span:
10 - 14 Years
13 - 17 Years
Litter Size:
6 - 12
4 - 6
Size:
Giant dog
Medium dog
Other Names:
None
Water Dog of Romagna
Colors Available:
tan, White with large markings of reddish brown, grey or black.
grey, apricot, Cream, white, brown or tan.
Coat:
Longish, thick double coat
Waterproof, curly double coat with a woolly texture
Shedding:
Moderate, Constant
Moderate
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Docile, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Territorial
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Sweet, Territorial
Grooming:
Low maintenance
Moderate maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
Yes
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Nova Scotia Duck-Tolling Retriever vs Lagotto Romagnolo - Breed Comparison
  2. Lagotto Romagnolo vs East Siberian Laika - Breed Comparison
  3. Lagotto Romagnolo vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  4. Lagotto Romagnolo vs French Spaniel - Breed Comparison
  5. Lagotto Romagnolo vs Flat-Coated Retriever - Breed Comparison
  6. Lagotto Romagnolo vs Finnish Spitz - Breed Comparison
  7. Lagotto Romagnolo vs Ariegeois - Breed Comparison
  8. Lagotto Romagnolo vs Beagador - Breed Comparison
  9. Lagotto Romagnolo vs English Water Spaniel - Breed Comparison
  10. Lagotto Romagnolo vs Field Spaniel - Breed Comparison
  11. Lagotto Romagnolo vs Artois Hound - Breed Comparison
  12. Lagotto Romagnolo vs Curly Coated Retriever - Breed Comparison
  13. Lagotto Romagnolo vs Braque Francais - Breed Comparison
  14. Lagotto Romagnolo vs Formosan Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  15. Lagotto Romagnolo vs Kooikerhondje - Breed Comparison
  16. Lagotto Romagnolo vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  17. Lagotto Romagnolo vs Braque Saint-Germain - Breed Comparison
  18. Shikoku vs Lagotto Romagnolo - Breed Comparison
  19. Slovakian Hound vs Lagotto Romagnolo - Breed Comparison
  20. Small Munsterlander vs Lagotto Romagnolo - Breed Comparison
  21. Sussex Spaniel vs Lagotto Romagnolo - Breed Comparison
  22. Welsh Springer Spaniel vs Lagotto Romagnolo - Breed Comparison
  23. West Siberian Laika vs Lagotto Romagnolo - Breed Comparison
  24. Wetterhoun vs Lagotto Romagnolo - Breed Comparison
  25. Wirehaired Pointing Griffon vs Lagotto Romagnolo - Breed Comparison
  26. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Bernese Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  27. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Newfoundland Dog - Breed Comparison
  28. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Anatolian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  29. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Leonberger - Breed Comparison
  30. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Alaunt - Breed Comparison
  31. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Alangu Mastiff - Breed Comparison
  32. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Bisben - Breed Comparison
  33. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Moscow Watchdog - Breed Comparison
  34. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Kars Dog - Breed Comparison
  35. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Moscow Water Dog - Breed Comparison
  36. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Ciobanesc de Bucovina - Breed Comparison
  37. Spanish Mastiff vs Pyrenean Mastiff - Breed Comparison
  38. St. Bernard vs Pyrenean Mastiff - Breed Comparison
  39. Neapolitan Mastiff vs Pyrenean Mastiff - Breed Comparison
  40. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Great Dane - Breed Comparison
  41. Pyrenean Mastiff vs English Mastiff - Breed Comparison
  42. Pyrenean Mastiff vs American Mastiff - Breed Comparison
  43. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Bully Kutta - Breed Comparison
  44. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Irish Wolfhound - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds