Alano Espanol Dog Breed

Below are the details and specs for the Spanish Bulldog.

The Alano Espanol is considered a large breed that stands 22-25 inches tall and weighs 75-88 pounds. The breed has a history of being strong and muscular with high levels of courage and endurance.

The Spanish Bulldog is pack-hunting dog, so he gets along very well with other dogs. Other pets should be fine too, as the breed was mainly used to hunt big game as opposed to small animals. They are non aggressive and patient with children as well as affectionate and playful; they make good outdoor family pets. Members of this breed make excellent guard dogs and will attack only if necessary.

Those with active lifestyles will enjoy this breed, however for owners without time to spend exercising their pet everyday (or a yard) this breed is not recommended. A few walks a day are suggested. The short coat sheds little so regular brushing is required, however only occasional bathing is necessary.

The Alano Espanol descended from a common ancestor that originated in the Southeastern European area (in ancient times called Molosia) that is now Greece and Albania. These ancient dogs accompanied their owners overseas through conquest, trade, and exploration and wherever they landed were bred and developed into many different sub-types of dogs. This particular breed originated in Spain and was first mentioned in the 14th century hunting books. During this time Spanish Bulldogs functioned in war and slave capturing and in later times has been used in livestock guarding, big-game hunting and bullfighting. As the latter of their functions became outlawed, this breed had almost become extinct. A few specimens of this breed were found in Northern and Western Spain in the 1970s and were bred to increase the population of the breed.

The Spanish Bulldog was not recognized by the Spanish Kennel Club until 2004 and is still not recognized yet internationally.

These are large sized, muscular dogs with thick skin especially within the neck region. The shoulders and back legs are strong with large paws. Spanish Bulldogs have large heads, short muzzles, and large black noses. The ears are often cropped but if left uncropped will be medium sized and fold towards the face. Members of this breed have a short thick coat that frequently includes some shade of brindle. The face displays some wrinkles and may be black masked.

The serious expression on the face is mirrored in this dog's personality. Owners should be pack leaders willing to offer continuous training in order to offset the breed's natural dominance. Once this is established the Spanish Bulldog will be very good at following orders and patient with training. They are not very aggressive but if the situation calls for it they will attack and will not yield even in extreme pain unless told to do so; therefore those looking for a guard dog will find this breed a good choice. Stamina and strength are prominent traits which call for an active owner and lifestyle. This also means they love to play and will do great with other dogs.

They are not easy to house-train and may develop destructive habits if not given enough exercise, because of this the Alano Espanol is not recommended for indoors.

No major health issues have been reported for this breed. The average life expectancy for the Spanish Bulldog is 11-14 years.