Lionel Messi Dog - A Look At His Famous Pet

Adelia Abshire 14 Jun 2025

Many people wonder about the furry companions of famous figures, and Lionel Messi, a name known across the globe, has a very special canine friend. It's quite natural, I suppose, for curiosity to extend beyond the football pitch and into the personal lives of those we admire, especially when it comes to their beloved pets. We often find ourselves, more or less, wanting to know about the creatures who share their homes and their quiet moments, the ones who are there through all the ups and downs.

There is, you know, a certain charm in seeing these celebrated individuals in a different light, perhaps just relaxing with an animal companion, like your own family might. It gives a glimpse into their world that feels, in a way, very relatable. So, it is that many folks have become quite interested in the four-legged member of the Messi household, a creature that has, apparently, become something of a celebrity in his own right.

This particular pet, a truly considerable animal, has caught the attention of many, and his name is Hulk. He is a very large dog, a kind known as a Dogue de Bordeaux, and his story is, to be honest, a rather interesting one, connecting deeply with the Messi family's life.

The Story of Lionel Messi's Dog
- Who is Lionel Messi's Dog?
- How Did Lionel Messi Get His Dog?
What Kind of Dog is Lionel Messi's Dog?
- The Dogue de Bordeaux - A Look at Lionel Messi's Dog's Breed
Life with Lionel Messi's Dog - A Family Member
- Where Does Lionel Messi's Dog Live Now?
The Daily Life of Lionel Messi's Dog
- What Does Lionel Messi's Dog Eat?
More Than One Furry Friend for Lionel Messi?
- Does Lionel Messi Have Other Dogs?

The Story of Lionel Messi's Dog

The tale of Lionel Messi's dog, Hulk, is one that, you know, really began to unfold around the year 2016. This was the time when this particular animal, a rather memorable creature, first came into the Messi family's life. He has since grown to be, quite honestly, one of the most widely recognized dogs across the entire globe. It’s a pretty remarkable journey for any pet, to go from a simple family companion to a figure of widespread interest.

The family's connection with Hulk, this very big brown dog, started in a rather heartwarming way, as a matter of fact. He became a part of their household in 2016, a year that, in some respects, marked a new chapter in their personal lives. Since that time, Hulk and Lionel Messi have developed, it seems, a very close bond, becoming what many would describe as the best of companions, sharing many moments together.

This dog, a truly gargantuan pet, is a French Mastiff, a specific kind of canine known for its considerable build and its powerful nature. Such is the natural strength these animals possess that they were, in times past, employed to move things, which really speaks to their physical capabilities. So, the story of this Lionel Messi dog is, in a way, tied to the history of its breed.

Who is Lionel Messi's Dog?

The dog belonging to Lionel Messi has a name that, you know, truly suits his imposing presence: Hulk. Sometimes, people refer to him as Señor Hulk, adding a touch of formality to his already well-known moniker. This name, it's pretty clear, is quite fitting, considering the animal's rather substantial build. He is, to be honest, a very large dog, and his size is something that many people comment on.

A video that Messi's wife, Antonela Roccuzzo, put out for everyone to see in 2018, actually showed just how big Hulk was, even when he was, apparently, only two years old. It gave a real sense of his considerable stature, even at a relatively young age. So, it's not just a name; it's a description of the Lionel Messi dog's physical reality.

This particular dog, a Dogue de Bordeaux, is also sometimes called a Bordeaux Mastiff or a French Mastiff, as I was saying. The breed itself is, you know, recognized for its considerable dimensions and its sheer physical capability. Historically, these sorts of dogs, the Dogue de Bordeaux, have been put to use for various tasks, which just goes to show their inherent power and presence.

How Did Lionel Messi Get His Dog?

The arrival of Hulk, the Lionel Messi dog, into the family's life was, in a way, a very thoughtful gesture. He was given to Messi as a present, a rather special gift, from his partner, Antonela Roccuzzo. This happened, apparently, sometime around 2016, marking the beginning of their journey with this large canine companion. It's a nice story, really, how a family's pet comes into their home.

The Messi family, including Lionel, his wife Antonela Roccuzzo, and their children, welcomed Hulk, who was then just a little Bordeaux Mastiff puppy, into their home. It's quite something to imagine this giant dog starting out as a small, adorable bundle of fluff and jowls. Just eight short months before a particular moment, Lionel Messi's pet dog was, indeed, a very charming little creature, comfortable enough for the Barcelona star to take a quick picture for social media.

So, the superstar, as a matter of fact, brought this dog into his life back in 2016, and since that time, this animal has become a truly significant part of his family unit. This Lionel Messi dog, Hulk, has, you know, really captured the affections of pet enthusiasts all around the globe. This kind of breed, unique and quite strong, was once, apparently, not as common and held a rather high value, becoming, it seems, a kind of symbol of something special.

What Kind of Dog is Lionel Messi's Dog?

The type of dog that Lionel Messi has as a companion is, as mentioned, a Dogue de Bordeaux. This particular kind of canine is, you know, truly noticeable for its considerable size and its impressive physical ability. It's a breed that, in some respects, carries a certain presence wherever it goes. People often recognize them for their sturdy build and their calm, yet powerful, demeanor.

Also known as a Bordeaux Mastiff or, perhaps, a French Mastiff, this breed has a history of being used for various tasks where strength was a key requirement. So, when you think about the Lionel Messi dog, you are thinking about an animal with a background of considerable physical capability. They are, basically, dogs built for strength and endurance, which is quite interesting.

This unique and powerful kind of dog was, at one point in time, actually facing a bit of a challenge in terms of its numbers, being considered endangered. They were also, it seems, quite highly valued, which speaks to their distinct qualities. Now, this particular breed has, in a way, become a symbol, perhaps because of its history or its impressive characteristics.

The Dogue de Bordeaux - A Look at Lionel Messi's Dog's Breed

The Dogue de Bordeaux, the specific type of dog that Lionel Messi keeps, is a breed that is, you know, quite well-regarded for its considerable build and its physical power. These dogs possess a rather imposing appearance, often with a large head and a muscular frame, which really gives them a distinct look. Their presence is, to be honest, quite noticeable in any setting.

This kind of dog, sometimes referred to as a Bordeaux Mastiff or even a French Mastiff, has, as I was saying, a long history. In times past, these animals were used for various demanding jobs, which really highlights their inherent strength and their capacity for physical effort. They were, apparently, quite capable of tasks that required considerable might, showing their historical utility.

The inherent physical capability of these dogs meant they were, at one point, employed to move items, which gives you a picture of their physical prowess. So, the Lionel Messi dog is, in a way, a representative of a breed that has a legacy of being quite capable and strong. It's a fascinating aspect of this particular animal's background, connecting him to a line of powerful canines.

Life with Lionel Messi's Dog - A Family Member

The life of Hulk, the Lionel Messi dog, has seen some changes, as is often the case with families who move across the globe. For a period, Hulk lived with the Messi family at their home in Barcelona, where he was, you know, a very cherished part of their everyday existence. He was a constant presence, growing from a small puppy into the very large dog he is known to be.

When Lionel Messi made the choice to move to the MLS, which is the Major League Soccer, this transition came with a rather painful decision for the family. They had to consider, in a way, leaving their pet Bordeaux Mastiff at their home in Barcelona. This was, apparently, a costly emotional experience, a real challenge for the family to face.

The choice to leave Hulk behind was, it seems, due in part to certain factors, though the full details are not completely spelled out. It suggests that there were practical considerations involved in such a significant family move, especially when it involves a very large animal. So, the Lionel Messi dog, Hulk, faced a separation from his primary family unit due to these circumstances.

Where Does Lionel Messi's Dog Live Now?

The Messi family, including Lionel, his wife Antonela Roccuzzo, and their children, had to make a rather difficult choice concerning their pet dog after his move to Inter Miami. This was, to be honest, a very significant decision for them, one that surely weighed heavily on their hearts. The idea of leaving a family member behind, even a furry one, is never easy, as many pet owners can probably understand.

As a result of this move, the Lionel Messi dog, Hulk, remained at the family's home in Barcelona. This means that, for now, he is not living with Messi in the United States. It's a situation that, you know, highlights the complexities that can arise when highly public figures make big life changes, especially those that involve their beloved animals. The decision was, apparently, a tough one for everyone involved.

So, while Lionel Messi is now playing in the MLS, his famous dog, Señor Hulk, continues to reside in Barcelona. This arrangement is, in some respects, a testament to the challenges of international moves, particularly when a pet of Hulk's considerable size and specific breed needs to be considered. It shows that even for well-known personalities, these kinds of personal choices can be, basically, quite impactful.

The Daily Life of Lionel Messi's Dog

The daily routine for a dog of Hulk's considerable dimensions involves, as you might expect, a rather specific diet. A dog of his size, which is, you know, quite substantial, needs a significant amount of food each day to maintain his health and his impressive physique. This is a very important part of caring for such a large animal, ensuring they get the right nourishment.

Specifically, a dog like Hulk, the Lionel Messi dog, requires between 750 and 900 grams of dog food every single day. This is a considerable quantity, basically, ensuring that his large body has enough fuel for all its needs. It's a pretty precise measurement, showing the care that goes into his daily sustenance.

It is, in fact, recommended that you choose a good quality dog food for an animal of this stature. Even if it costs a little more, the benefits for the dog's well-being are, apparently, quite significant. So, for the Lionel Messi dog, his diet is a key part of his care, ensuring he remains healthy and strong, which is, of course, what any pet owner wants for their companion.

What Does Lionel Messi's Dog Eat?

The question of what Lionel Messi's dog consumes on a daily basis is, you know, a very practical one for anyone interested in large breeds. As mentioned, a dog with the physical presence of Hulk, who is, after all, a Dogue de Bordeaux, has very specific dietary requirements. His substantial frame needs consistent and proper feeding to keep him in good condition, which is, basically, vital for a dog of his kind.

To be more precise, the amount of food that Hulk, the Lionel Messi dog, needs daily falls within a range of 750 to 900 grams of dog food. This quantity is, quite honestly, a significant portion, reflecting the energy demands of an animal with such a considerable build. It's not just a small snack; it's a very substantial meal plan designed for his size.

When selecting food for a dog like Hulk, it's pretty clear that picking a good quality dog food is, in some respects, a very important choice. Even if the cost is a little higher, the benefits for the dog's health and overall vitality are, apparently, well worth the investment. So, his diet is, you know, carefully considered to support his large and powerful physique.

More Than One Furry Friend for Lionel Messi?

While Hulk is certainly the most widely recognized Lionel Messi dog, the family actually has more than one canine companion. This is, you know, a pretty common thing for many households, to have a couple of pets. So, in addition to Hulk, the large Dogue de Bordeaux, there is another dog who shares their home, adding to the family's collection of furry friends.

The Messi family is, in fact, home to two dogs. There is Hulk, the very large French Mastiff, and then there is a poodle named Abu. This means that while Hulk often gets all the attention, there is another, perhaps quieter, presence in their animal family. It's interesting to think about the different personalities these two dogs might bring to the household.

A person named Granados, who visited Messi at his home for an interview, actually saw Abu during his visit. However, he noticed that Hulk, the more famous Lionel Messi dog, was not present at that time. When asked about the absence of the larger dog, Messi, apparently, provided some information, which suggests that there's a story behind Hulk's whereabouts, as previously discussed.

Does Lionel Messi Have Other Dogs?

It is, you know, a fair question to wonder if Lionel Messi's household includes more than just the widely known Hulk. And the answer is, in fact, yes, the Messi family does have other dogs. This means that their home is, basically, filled with the presence of more than one canine companion, which is, for many people, a very comforting thought.

The family's pet collection includes Hulk, the impressive Dogue de Bordeaux, and also a poodle named Abu. So, while Hulk's considerable size and fame often put him in the spotlight, Abu is also a cherished member of their animal family. It's a good example of how a family might have different kinds of pets, each with their own unique characteristics and roles.

During a visit to Messi's home for an interview, Granados, as I was saying, observed Abu, the poodle. However, he did notice that Hulk, the very large Lionel Messi dog, was not there during that particular visit. When questioned about the absence of Hulk, Messi, it seems, offered some explanation, which hints at the separate living arrangements that have come about for Hulk.

So, the story of Lionel Messi's dogs involves not just the famous Hulk, but also Abu, a smaller poodle, highlighting the family's affection for their animal companions and the different paths their pets' lives have taken.

File:Lionel Messi Player of the Year 2011.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

Who is Lionel Messi Wife? Lionel Messi Married to Antonela Roccuzzo

Lionel Messi summary | Britannica

Magazines