Gran Mastin de Borinquen

The Gran Mastin de Borinquen, commonly known as the Puerto Rican Mastiff, is the only breed native to Puerto Rico. Many believe that the Gran Mastin de Borinquen originated during the 16^th century and descends from Spanish Mastiffs brought to Puerto Rico by Spain’s military. These Spanish Mastiffs were crossed with Latin American Molossers and then the Perros Jibaros were added into the mix. Perros Jibaros are simply island dogs of unknown origins. The resulting dog from these crosses was a massive, ferocious dog. Through the years this breed has even been described as being blood thirsty. The breed was used to terrorize Spanish colonists during the Spanish Encomendado. Guards would send these dogs out to attack and kill colonists that did not willingly follow the laws set by the government. For centuries the Gran Mastin de Borinquen was used by the Spanish nobility to protect their estates because of the breed’s size and propensity toward aggression. During the time of slavery in Puerto Rico, the Gran Mastin de Borinquen was used by plantation owners to keep the slaves from disobeying. During this dark time in Puerto Rico, hundreds of runaway slaves were attacked and killed by these dogs. The Gran Mastin de Borinquen is an easily adaptable breed able to handle the cold, wet climate of the rain forest and the hot, humid climate of the plains and valleys. People used to be able to trade for or purchase a Gran Mastin de Borinquen fairly easily, however, the breed is now considered rare and is somewhat difficult to find. Their storied past has contributed to their downfall; however, enthusiasts of the breed understand that their fierceness and aggressive nature stems from their loyalty to their master. In 1979 the Gran Mastin de Borinquen was recognized by the Sociedad Cynologica Caribena or SCC as a rare breed.