Old Yeller, a beloved character from the book by Fred Gipson and the subsequent film adaptation, is often described as a mongrel in the dialogue. However, it’s important to note that the dog who portrays Old Yeller in the movie is actually a 170-pound Yellow Mastador, which is a cross between a Labrador Retriever and an English Mastiff. In the book, Old Yeller is described as a Black-Mouthed Cur, which is a similar-looking but less bulky breed.
The choice to portray Old Yeller as a Yellow Mastador in the film was likely made to create a more visually appealing and imposing presence on screen. The Labrador Retriever and English Mastiff are both well-known breeds with distinct physical characteristics, and combining them would result in a dog with a larger size, a strong build, and a striking yellow coat.
Yellow Mastadors, like Old Yeller, typically have a friendly and gentle temperament, which is evident in the character’s loyalty and protective nature throughout the story. They are known to be intelligent, obedient, and excellent family pets. This choice of breed for Old Yeller helps to emphasize his role as a dependable and trustworthy companion to the Coates family.
On the other hand, in the book, Old Yeller is described as a Black-Mouthed Cur. While not as well-known as the Yellow Mastador, the Black-Mouthed Cur is a breed that shares some physical similarities with the Yellow Mastador. Curs are known for their versatility and adaptability, and they have been used for various purposes over the years, including hunting, herding, and guarding.
The use of different breeds to portray Old Yeller in the book and the film highlights the creative decisions made by the author and filmmakers to bring the character to life in different mediums. While the specific breed may differ between the two versions, the essence of Old Yeller as a loyal, brave, and beloved dog remains consistent.
Old Yeller is portrayed as a Yellow Mastador in the film adaptation, while in the book, he is described as a Black-Mouthed Cur. Both breeds possess certain physical and behavioral traits that align with the character’s role as a faithful and courageous companion. Whether a 170-pound Yellow Mastador or a Black-Mouthed Cur, Old Yeller’s impact on readers and viewers alike remains undeniably powerful.