Pyrenean Mastiff vs Meliteo Kinidio - Breed Comparison

Pyrenean Mastiff is originated from Spain but Meliteo Kinidio is originated from Greece. Pyrenean Mastiff may grow 50 cm / 20 inches higher than Meliteo Kinidio. Pyrenean Mastiff may weigh 92 kg / 203 pounds more than Meliteo Kinidio. Both Pyrenean Mastiff and Meliteo Kinidio has almost same life span. Pyrenean Mastiff may have more litter size than Meliteo Kinidio. Both Pyrenean Mastiff and Meliteo Kinidio requires Low 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.

Originating in Greece, the Melitea Kinidio is also known as the Small Greek Domestic Dog. It is an ancient dog breed. The dog has always been a skillful hunter of small game and birds.

It is believed that the dog breed originated from Malta, explaining its Greek name, Melitaion Kunidion.

There are efforts to recognize the Meliteo Kinidio as a separate and unique Greek dog breed but no formal breed clubs exist so far today. The dog also hasn’t been recognized by any reputable registry. Today these common dogs are found in high numbers throughout most of Greece.  

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.

The Meliteo Kinidio is a deep chested small sized dog which weighs about 3 to 8kg and stands at about 23 – 32cm in height.

The dog has a bright, fox shaped face, floppy ears and a tail which curls over the back and which is feathery or plumed. The body is longer than being tall.

He is available with two coat types – long- and short-haired, with the long haired one being the more common of the two. People often confuse this dog with the long-haired Dachshund. The coat is dense, weatherproof, silky and wavy.

The coat colors can be beige, blonde, white or black, with there being no standardization with color.

Temperament:

These Greek dogs are no pushover and in fact they are fairly fearless dogs, possessive of the human family, wanting to protect them and therefore being territorial as well. They make excellent pets, being very sensitive to their owners, sensing their different moods.

He has always been a hunting dog so he loves to be busy, making a good dog to have on the farm. They are even tempered and gentle, but have a loud, robust bark for their size.

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.

These feisty Small Greek Domestic Dogs are loving, loyal dogs who enjoy being around their human family but who don’t mind spending some time on their own either.

They’re dogs which are in tune with their owners and they’re intelligent too so they learn easily. You can expect to a have a good friend when you allow this companion dog into your home.

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.

This dog breed enjoys good longevity and can live to be about 12 to 15 years of age with good care.

One thing you have to be careful of with a dog like this is that because he is active he loves to running around and jumping. However, with his long back, jumping off a fairly high bed for instance, can lead to injury and should be discouraged rather. Apart from ear infections, other health issues can be dental.

Dental Issues:

Brushing your dog’s teeth 2 or 3 times a week can prevent dental problems. Small dogs are more prone to plaque formation and gum recession. Many small dogs loose their teeth with dental issues. Plaque that is left on the surface of the tooth is detrimental to the dog’s immune system, starting an inflammatory response. Without good oral hygiene, other health issues such as heart disease and diabetes can become a factor.

Ear Infections:

Ear infections in dogs, particularly those with floppy ears, are common and can be painful.

Scratching at the ear with head shaking is a common sign that your dog has an ear infection as well as the presence of redness and swelling. The inside of the ear needs to be gently cleaned with ear cleanser, but many people don’t like to do this, fearing they may damage the ear. Then it becomes important for your vet or professional groomer to do it for you.

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.

The Small Greek Domestic Dog is easy to groom and the coat which sheds moderately will simply require brushing twice a week to keep it silky and vibrant.

Diet:

The Small Greek Domestic Dog is sleek lean and muscular and you want to keep him like that at all costs and avoid obesity. To keep him happy and fit feed him two smaller meals as opposed to one. If you buy commercially manufactured food, make sure its the best quality one as the lower quality foods have inferior ingredients devoid of minerals and vitamins. When you have bought the best quality kibble, treat your dog to some home-made food from time to time – nothing exotic – just plain boiled chicken, brown rice and pasta and cooked vegetables such as potato, carrots and spinach. Some raw meat added in occasionaly is also excellent. Feeding your dog a simple but nutritious meal like this will ensure your dog is healthy, content and free of stomach problems. Fresh, cool water must be availabe around the clock.

Basic Information

Group:
Working dog
Companion dog
Origin:
Spain
Greece
Height Male:
75 - 82 cm
29 - 33 inches
23 - 32 cm
9 - 13 inches
Height Female:
75 - 82 cm
29 - 33 inches
23 - 32 cm
9 - 13 inches
Weight Male:
70 - 100 kg
154 - 221 pounds
3 - 8 kg
6 - 18 pounds
Weight Female:
70 - 100 kg
154 - 221 pounds
3 - 8 kg
6 - 18 pounds
Life Span:
10 - 14 Years
12 - 15 Years
Litter Size:
6 - 12
3 - 7
Size:
Giant dog
Small dog
Other Names:
None
Small Greek Domestic Dog
Colors Available:
tan, White with large markings of reddish brown, grey or black.
white or black, Beige, blonde
Coat:
Longish, thick double coat
Long- and short-haired
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, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Sweet, Territorial
Grooming:
Low maintenance
Low maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Bernese Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  2. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Newfoundland Dog - Breed Comparison
  3. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Anatolian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  4. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Leonberger - Breed Comparison
  5. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Alaunt - Breed Comparison
  6. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Alangu Mastiff - Breed Comparison
  7. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Bisben - Breed Comparison
  8. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Moscow Watchdog - Breed Comparison
  9. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Kars Dog - Breed Comparison
  10. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Moscow Water Dog - Breed Comparison
  11. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Ciobanesc de Bucovina - Breed Comparison
  12. Spanish Mastiff vs Pyrenean Mastiff - Breed Comparison
  13. St. Bernard vs Pyrenean Mastiff - Breed Comparison
  14. Neapolitan Mastiff vs Pyrenean Mastiff - Breed Comparison
  15. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Great Dane - Breed Comparison
  16. Pyrenean Mastiff vs English Mastiff - Breed Comparison
  17. Pyrenean Mastiff vs American Mastiff - Breed Comparison
  18. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Bully Kutta - Breed Comparison
  19. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Irish Wolfhound - Breed Comparison
  20. PekePoo vs Meliteo Kinidio - Breed Comparison
  21. Schipperke vs Meliteo Kinidio - Breed Comparison
  22. Schweenie vs Meliteo Kinidio - Breed Comparison
  23. Meliteo Kinidio vs Bichon Frise - Breed Comparison
  24. Meliteo Kinidio vs Mal-Shi - Breed Comparison
  25. Meliteo Kinidio vs Alaskan Klee Kai - Breed Comparison
  26. Meliteo Kinidio vs Coton De Tulear - Breed Comparison
  27. Meliteo Kinidio vs Japanese Spitz - Breed Comparison
  28. Meliteo Kinidio vs Malti-Pom - Breed Comparison
  29. Meliteo Kinidio vs Fruggle - Breed Comparison
  30. Meliteo Kinidio vs Lhasapoo - Breed Comparison
  31. Meliteo Kinidio vs Hawaiian Poi Dog - Breed Comparison
  32. Meliteo Kinidio vs Kyi-Leo - Breed Comparison
  33. Prazsky Krysarik vs Meliteo Kinidio - Breed Comparison
  34. Pugalier vs Meliteo Kinidio - Breed Comparison
  35. Tsvetnaya Bolonka vs Meliteo Kinidio - Breed Comparison
  36. Muggin vs Meliteo Kinidio - Breed Comparison
  37. Pomeranian vs Meliteo Kinidio - Breed Comparison
  38. Pug vs Meliteo Kinidio - Breed Comparison
  39. Miniature Schnauzer vs Meliteo Kinidio - Breed Comparison
  40. Papillon vs Meliteo Kinidio - Breed Comparison
  41. Miniature Australian Shepherd vs Meliteo Kinidio - Breed Comparison
  42. Miniature English Bulldog vs Meliteo Kinidio - Breed Comparison
  43. Miniature Dachshund vs Meliteo Kinidio - Breed Comparison
  44. Miniature Poodle vs Meliteo Kinidio - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds