Stephens Stock vs Pyrenean Mastiff - Breed Comparison

Stephens Stock vs Pyrenean Mastiff - Breed ComparisonPyrenean Mastiff is originated from Spain but Stephens Stock is originated from United States. Pyrenean Mastiff may grow 32 cm / 13 inches higher than Stephens Stock. Pyrenean Mastiff may weigh 42 kg / 93 pounds more than Stephens Stock. Both Pyrenean Mastiff and Stephens Stock has same life span. Pyrenean Mastiff may have more litter size than Stephens Stock. Both Pyrenean Mastiff and Stephens Stock requires Low Maintenance.

Basic Information

Group:
Working dog
Hound dog
undefined
Spain
United States
Height Male:
75 - 82 cm
29 - 33 inches
35 - 50 cm
13 - 20 inches
Height Female:
75 - 82 cm
29 - 33 inches
32 - 46 cm
12 - 19 inches
Weight Male:
70 - 100 kg
154 - 221 pounds
41 - 58 kg
90 - 128 pounds
Weight Female:
70 - 100 kg
154 - 221 pounds
39 - 55 kg
85 - 122 pounds
Life Span:
10 - 14 Years
10 - 14 Years
Litter Size:
6 - 12
3 - 6
Size:
Giant
Medium
Other Names:
None
Stephens' Stock Mountain Cur Little black dog Little Darkies
Colors Available:
tan, White with large markings of reddish brown, grey or black.
Black or dark gray; white markings may appear on the neck, and feet , chest
Coat:
Longish, thick double coat
Short, smooth/rough outer coat; short, dense, soft undercoat
Shedding:
Moderate, Constant
Minimal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Docile, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Territorial
Aggressive, Alert, Courageous, Energetic, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loyal, Playful
Grooming:
Low Maintenance
Low Maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

History

pyrenean mastiffThe 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.

stephens stockThe Stephens Stock is a member if the Cur dog breeds. They are a scent hound bred in southeastern Kentucky by the Stephen’s family. For generations the dogs were simply known as the “little black dog”. The Cur breeds are dogs with a mixture of ancestry and the Stephens Cur is no different. However, the name Cur now means a working dog from the South in the United States. They were known as hunting and guard dogs, chasing wild boar, squirrel and raccoon. They were also called the Mountain Curs throughout Kentucky, Tennessee and Virginia.

These mountain working dogs came close to extinction by the 1940’s but four separate breeders set out to save the Mountain Curs. They were the founders of the Mountain Cur Club and involved Woody Huntsman of Kentucky, Carl McConnel of Virginia, Dewey Ledbetter of Virginia and of course Hugh Stephens of Kentucky. Later the name of the club was changed to the Original Mountain Cur Breeders Association or OMCBA. The Mountain View Cur, the Treeing Cur and the Stephens Stock Cur were the results of their efforts.

In the 1970’s Stephen’s decided that his Cur was different from the original Mountain Curs and should be a separate breed. He formed the Stephen’s Breeders Association and the breed was recognized as distinct from other Curs. However, it was not recognized by the UKC (United Kennel Club) until 1998.

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.

stephens stock puppy - descriptionThe Stephens Stock Cur is a breed of medium size, dark dogs – either very dark grey or black. Their heads are domed, and the muzzle is short with dark eyes. The breed’s chest is broad and deep with a neck of medium length and either a rough or smooth coat. They are smaller than the other Curs like the Black Mouth Cur or the Mountain View Cur.

They are strong and capable of treeing their prey. Their body is longer than it is high, and they have powerful and long legs. Their appearance is sleek and elegant. The nose is dark and square, and their stance is alert and that of a watchdog. This is an athletic hunting dog that is aggressive in the field and chilled at home.

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.

Characteristics

stephens stock dog - characteristics1. Children friendliness - They are tenacious on the hunt but once at home they love children.

2.Special talents tenacious – treeing prey

3.Adaptability They are adaptable if you can get them the exercise, they need every day. They won’t do well in an apartment without going to play and run somewhere else every day.

4.Learning ability - highly intelligent, eager to learn.

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.

stephens stock puppies - health problemsThe Stephens Stock Cur is a fairly healthy breed, fairly isolated in the hills and mountains of Kentucky and Tennessee. They are prone to a few health conditions but there are no genetic and breed specific issues.

  • PRA Progressive Retinal Atrophy can lead to blindness.

• Ear and Eye Infections. Keep them clean and keep debris out of both ears and eyes after hunting.

  • Deafness is seen in some.
  • Dental issues have been seen in some.

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.

stephens stock dogs - caring1.Feeding the puppy -Feed puppies a quality food desired for medium breed, high energy dogs. Puppies should eat 3 times a day about a total of 2 cups.

2.Feeding the adult Feed a high quality dog food with plenty of protein and designed for medium size dogs. Feed a total of 3 cups over 2 meals a day.

3.Points for Good Health – They are energetic and tenacious.

4. Games and Exercises – This is a very high energy treeing hunting dog with remarkable speed and agility. They need exercise – both physical and mental. One walk a day will not do it for these dogs. Have a fenced in yard or take them to organized activities like field trials, agility, flyball, hunting, search and rescue or barn hunt. They love to hunt with their people.

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Pyrenean Mastiff vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  2. Pyrenean Mastiff vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  3. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  4. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  5. Pyrenean Mastiff vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  6. Pyrenean Mastiff vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  7. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  8. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  9. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  10. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  11. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  12. Pyrenean Mastiff vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  13. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  14. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  15. Pyrenean Mastiff vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  16. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  17. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  18. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  19. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  20. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  21. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  22. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  23. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  24. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  25. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  26. Stephens Stock vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  27. Stephens Stock vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  28. Stephens Stock vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  29. Stephens Stock vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  30. Stephens Stock vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  31. Stephens Stock vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  32. Stephens Stock vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  33. Stephens Stock vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  34. Stephens Stock vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  35. Stephens Stock vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  36. Stephens Stock vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  37. Stephens Stock vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  38. Stephens Stock vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  39. Stephens Stock vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  40. Stephens Stock vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  41. Stephens Stock vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  42. Stephens Stock vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  43. Stephens Stock vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  44. Stephens Stock vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  45. Stephens Stock vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  46. Stephens Stock vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  47. Stephens Stock vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  48. Stephens Stock vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  49. Stephens Stock vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  50. Stephens Stock vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison