Alan Dog - the oldest dog

Alan Dog is a large dog, used at one time in battles. Her ancestors belong to the breed, one of the first people accustomed to. It is not a descendant of the breed used today, but it is considered a distant ancestor of the Molossians. This spectacular, proportionally folded dog, which turns out to be a magnificent watchman, a security guard and an excellent friend.

Origin

The history of the breed is so deeply rooted in the past that it is already impossible to track details today. In general, however, it is known. Various names give the Spaniards this breed: Alano, Spanish Bulldog (a description of the breed made in the early 11th century), a snake, a dog for baiting, snub-nosed, etc. The main name this animal received from its first owners - Alans. These fearless warriors, the ancestors of the present Ossetians, in ancient times became famous as breeders of various animals, engaged precisely in the development of the best qualities in each of them. Dogs they chose to work, the best of them fully corresponded to those functions for which they were derived. Alan Dog (more precisely - his ancestors) was brought to Europe during the invasion of the Pyrenees. It happened in 4-5 centuries. Soon the soldiers were expelled from the peninsula, in contrast to dogs that the Spaniards liked very much. One of the oldest descriptions of the breed is dated 1311 year. In addition, many historians mention the dogs brought by the Spanish conquistadors to America, which indicates that they were important in the formation of breeds of both the Old and New Worlds.

More than 16 centuries, these animals were required to hunt large game, to participate in bullfighting. Since the end of the 19th century, bulls have been banned in bullfighting, hunting grounds have declined significantly. In addition, livestock was kept in pens, which, in complex, reduced the need for animals of this breed.

Revival of the breed

Officially, the Alan Great Dane was considered to be a disappeared breed, but the Spaniards decided to revive it. In the 80s of the 20th century a group of specialists undertook the study of the number of dogs in the livestock breeding areas. It was found that for a long time the animals of this breed were crossed with the Molossian type. However, regions where the Alanian dog survived were virtually untouched. Representatives of the breed, which served as the basis for the restoration, were found in the Pirinea mountains, because there was still an archaic type of farming. Traditionally, in these places the Alanian dog ran ferocious bulls.

The most difficult to restore was to achieve the necessary features of behavior: tranquility, domination, dignity with a pronounced submission to the owner, the ability to work in a group. These animals should be able to think independently: both during hunting and when grazing, they must use the mind, making decisions instantly. The Spanish Breed Development Society in 1997 developed a standard approved by the University of Cordoba. The International Federation does not recognize the breed.

Application

For all time of existence the Alanian dog served in various hypostases: it was a hunter, a bloodhound, a shepherd's dog, a watchman, a warrior, and an animal for battles ... Today this breed is used mainly as a search and security. Less common are Alans, used as shepherds.

Features of the breed

The psychic of animals is very stable, they are peaceful, but if necessary, use their teeth without hesitation, protecting the host. A very important quality Alano, worked out for centuries, is the ability to sacrifice oneself for the sake of the owner's family. In this case, the dogs get along well with children and other pets. They are incredibly attached to the master, they understand him from half a glance. To educate and train dogs of this breed is not difficult, they obey the owner with pleasure. Unknown animals meet with an alert person, however after the check-up it is ready to show friendliness.

Content

It is interesting that Alano can climb trees, while jumping perfectly. This breed needs frequent and active walks. This feature of the content leads to the fact that it is easier to keep them in a country house. The food of the dog is directly influenced by the way of life. In the city, without additional exercises, you need to keep a count of calories, avoiding obesity. It is necessary to observe the balance of nutrients in the diet. You can not give sweets, bones, bread. If a decision is made to give the animal dry food, homemade food should be excluded.

It is very easy to care for the wool - it is enough to comb it twice a week with a stiff brush. Wash often should not be. In most dogs this breed has good health.

Acquisition of

It is difficult to buy this dog in our country. To date, one pair has been registered, brought to Moscow from Spain. Alan Dog, the price of which is very high, has not yet been divorced in Russia. The first litter was registered in 2016. The price of puppies of this litter is "negotiable", which means "very expensive", but in Spain a healthy two-month-old puppy can be purchased for a price equivalent to about $ 1000.