Great Alan is a large dog, used at one time in battle. Her ancestors belong to the breed, one of the first accustomed by man. She is not a descendant of the breed used today, but is considered a distant ancestor of Molossians. This spectacular proportionally built dog, which turns out to be a great watchman, guard and a great friend.
Origin
The history of the breed is so deeply rooted in the past that it is no longer possible to trace the details today. In general, however, she is known. The Spaniards give various names to this breed: Alano, Spanish Bulldog (description of the breed was made at the beginning of the 11th century), snake, dog for bullying, snub-nosed, etc. This animal got its main name 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 in the development of the best qualities in each of them. They chose dogs for work, the best of them fully corresponded to the functions for which they were bred. Great Alan (or rather, his ancestors) was introduced to Europe during the invasion of the Pyrenees. It happened in the 4th-5th centuries. Soon, the soldiers were expelled from the peninsula, in contrast to the dogs that the Spaniards really liked. One of the oldest descriptions of the breed dates from 1311. In addition, many historians mention dogs brought by the Spanish conquistadors to America, which suggests that they were important in the formation of breeds of both the Old and the New World.
For more than 16 centuries, these animals have been required for hunting big game, for participating in bullfighting. Since the end of the 19th century, dogs were banned from bullfighting, hunting areas were significantly reduced. In addition, cattle began to be kept in pens, which, in combination, reduced the need for animals of this breed.
Breed revival
Officially, the Great Alan dog was considered a disappeared breed, but the Spaniards decided to revive it. In the 80s of the 20th century, a group of specialists took up the study of the number of dogs in livestock breeding zones. It was found that for a long time the animals of this breed were crossed with the Molossian type. However, regions were identified where the Alanian Great Dane remained almost untouched. Representatives of the breed, which served as the basis for restoration, were found in the Pyrenees mountains, since the archaic type of agriculture was still preserved there. Traditionally, in these places the Alanian dog ruled ferocious bulls.
The most difficult thing in the restoration was to achieve the necessary behavioral features: calm, dominance, dignity with pronounced submission to the owner, the ability to work in a group. These animals must be able to think independently: both during hunting and when grazing, they must use the mind, instantly making decisions. The Spanish Society for the Development of the breed in 1997 developed a standard approved by the University of Cordoba. The International Federation does not recognize the breed.
Application
Throughout its existence, the Alanian Great Dane served in various forms: it was a hunter, and a bloodhound, and a shepherd’s dog, and a watchman, and a warrior, and an animal for fighting ... Today, this breed is mainly used as a search and guard. Less commonly found are Alans used as shepherds.
Breed features
The psyche of animals is very stable, they are peaceful, but if necessary they use their teeth without hesitation, protecting the owner. A very important quality of Alano, developed over the centuries, is the ability to sacrifice oneself for the sake of the owner's family. At the same time, dogs get along well with children and other pets. They are incredibly attached to the owner, they understand him from a half view. Raising and training dogs of this breed is easy, they are happy to obey the owner. The animal encounters strangers cautiously, but after checking it is ready to show friendliness.
Content
It is interesting that Alano are able to 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. A dog’s diet is directly influenced by lifestyle. In the city, without additional exercises, it is necessary to count calories, avoiding obesity. It is necessary to maintain a balance of nutrients in the diet. You can not give sweets, bones, bread. If it is decided to give the animal dry food, homemade food should be ruled out.
It is very easy to care for your hair - it is enough to comb it twice a week with a stiff brush. Wash often should not be. Most dogs of this breed have good health.
Acquisition
It is difficult to get this dog in our country. To date, one couple has been registered, brought to Moscow from Spain. Great Alan, whose price is very high, has not yet been bred in Russia. The first litter was registered in 2016. The price of puppies of this particular 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 $ 1,000.