Libro Razas Españolas

Spanish Alano R.S.C.E. Standard N° 406 (Not accepted F.C.I.) Origin: Spain Utilization: The Spanish Alano is a dog traditionally used for catching fierce cattle in the mountain for their vaccination, branding and driving in general, in big game and in the defence of farms and properties. Classification R.S.C.E.: Group 2 Pinscher and Schnauzer-Molossoid Breeds – Swiss Mountain and Cattle Dogs and other breeds. Section 2.1 Molossoid Breeds – Mastiff type. Without working trial. I. Brief historical summary Coming from the Iberian Peninsula, there are references of its existence from 16th century. It is possibly descendant of the hunting dogs brought by the barbarian people after the fall of the Roman Empire. It achieves its splendour during the Middle Age until 19th century, when its popularity as cattle and big game hunting dog places it as favourite breed among a great number of outstanding personages in the history of Spain, who left complimentary bibliographic and artistic testimonies of its importance. At the end of 19th century, with the prohibition of the participation of dogs in bullfights, the breed falls into decline, but is later favoured by a series of changes in the systems of farming, as well as by the influence of foreign breeds. Luckily, some towns in Spain are faithful to their traditions and keep on developing the work of cattle catching with their dogs as their ancestors did centuries ago. In the 80s, there appears the most important centre of population in the mountainous area called Encartaciones, leading in 2004 to the official recognition of the breed. II. General Appearance Molossoid type dog, balanced, linear profile, elongated harmonious shape, coarse. It is an eminently functional animal, with the constitution of a runner, provided with a great agility, speed and resistance, elastic movements that remind to those of a feline. Brachycephalic, square head, wide and strong skull and very marked stop, short, wide and deep muzzle. III. Important Proportions The length of the muzzle must be between 35-37 % of the total length of the head. The length of the trunk must be 10 % longer than the height at withers. The thoracic perimeter must be a 25 % bigger than the height at withers. IV. Temperament/Behaviour In the development of its functions, the Spanish Alano has always worked in team with other adult dogs of the same sex and breed, or of others (villains,warren hounds,tracking dogs or mastiff). It is, therefore, a gregarious and sociable molossoid able to unite with other dogs which it lives with. It has great capacity to learn and excellent aptitudes as working dog, combining its functionality, beauty and firmness in working with an innate affection towards human beings. As family dog, it is easy to educate, very affectionate and patient with children. All the seriousness of its physical aspect is indeed a noble and balanced character. Las razas caninas españolas - Spanish canine breeds 159