Mastiff Breed information & Pictures

Mastiff Breed Description

Life Expectancy
10-12 years

Learning Rate
Medium

Litter Size
2 to 5

Size
Huge

Weight
Dogs: 150-250 pounds
Bitches: 120-200 pounds

Height
Dogs: 30-34 inches
Bitches: 27-32 inches

Country of Origin
United Kingdom, 6th century BC.

Groups
AKC Working Dogs
FCI Group II.: Pinscher and Schnauzer- Molossoid Breeds - Swiss Mountain and Cattle Dogs
TKC Working

Other Names
English Mastiff, Old English Mastiff

The English Mastiff is one of the heaviest breeds; a male Mastiff can exceed 200 pounds. The Mastiff is very massive, powerful and muscular. It is a large, symmetrical dog with a well-knit frame. It gives the impression of grandeur and dignity.

Originally valued for its abilities as a fierce guard and fighting dog, today’s Mastiff is a gentle giant. A born guard dog, brave and loyal. It is calm, steady and docile. It tends to keep close to home and is disinclined to roam. “As a lion is to a cat, so is a mastiff compared to a dog.

Temperament

It is a self-confident, watchful, and patient dog. It is gentle-natured towards its family. It is in its nature to defend its territory and family. It rarely barks, it is calm and docile. This breed needs lots of companionship, it loves to please.

This dog makes an excellent companion to children (not recommend for toddlers though, because of its great size). It is very large and heavy. The Mastiff is very intelligent, responds well to gentle, patient training. It is very possessive of home, family and car; protection training is unnecessary for this naturally protective breed. The dog generally holds intruders at bay rather than attacking. Extra effort should be given to socialize a Mastiff puppy; it may be combative with other dogs if not very well socialized.

The Mastiff’s dominance varies widely depending on the lineage; it can be aloof with strangers or fairly friendly. Some of the Mastiff’s talents include: watchdogging, guarding, police work, military work, search & rescue, and weight pulling. This breed tends to drool, wheeze and snore loudly.

Colors

Apricot, fawn, brindle with black around the eyes and extending up between them, over the muzzle, ears and nose.

Coat

Outer coat short and straight, undercoat dense and close lying. The coat is easy to groom. Brush with a firm bristle brush and wipe over with a piece of toweling or chamois for a gleaming finish. Bathe or dry shampoo when necessary. The Mastiff is an average shedder.

Health Issues

Beware of hip dysplasia; it is prone to bloat, feed two or three small meals a day, instead of one large one. It is also prone to CHD, gastric torsion, ectropion, PPM, vaginal hyperplasia, elbow dysplasia and PRA. Occasionally seen is cardiomyopathy. To minimize the risk of your Mastiff developing any hereditary health issues, you should buy a dog from a reputable English Mastiff breeder.

Living Environment

The Mastiff will do okay in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. It is relatively inactive indoors and a small yard will do. The Mastiff is inclined to be lazy but it will keep fitter and happier if given regular exercise. It should always be leashed in public.