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Introduction

The English Mastiff (also known as the Mastiff) is a breed of extremely large dog. It is distinguishable by enormous size, massive head, and black mask. The dog is huge, muscular and imposing but is known as a 'gentle giant'

History

The origin of the Mastiff is still a matter of much speculation. There appears to be evidence that the dogs were known from the times of the Assyrians to the Romans through to the Ancient Brits. The earliest written descriptions of this breed can be found in 15th century England, but the breed as we know it only began to take shape in the 19th century.

Temperament

Owners describe the Mastiff as a confident powerful yet gentle and affectionate breed. It is very even-tempered and for the most part very docile, but can easily distinguish a real threat and react accordingly to protect the family.

Coat

The Mastiff is covered by a short, straight outer coat with a thick, shorter undercoat. The coat comes in various colors: fawn, apricot, or brindle. Brindle Mastiffs have a fawn or apricot background color with dark stripes. The dog always sports darker hair on the muzzle, ears, and nose and around the eyes.

Do English Mastiffs do well in Apartments?

Probably the heaviest dog breed, Mastiffs are ill suited for apartment life, due to their physical size and need for space, are best suited for country or suburban life.

Barking

The English Mastiff has few barking problems. The breed has an instinctive nature when perceiving a threat and it's huge size is usually enough deterrent to others.

Do English Mastiffs Get Along With Children & Other Pets?

The breed is well behaved and gentle toward children and cats. Although the Mastiff is good-natured and usually means no harm care should be taken around toddlers because of its sheer size which can easily bowl a child over accidentally. Proper socialization as a puppy will ensure that the dog will not have any aggressive tendencies as an adult dog.

Exercising a Mastiff

Although large, they are not high energy dogs. A walk in the morning and another in the afternoon is usually enough to meet their needs, but it is always good to have at least a medium sized back yard for the dog to wander around and let off any excess energy.

How to Groom a Mastiff

Brushing the Mastiff once or twice a week is usually enough, although it may require more effort as the winter and summer approaches.

English Mastiff and Shedding

Mastiffs shed year round, but shedding picks up in the Spring and the Fall seasons.

English Mastiff Health Problems?

Hereditary problems include hip and elbow dysplasia, and progressive retinal atrophy, but most responsible breeders will have their dogs tested before allowing them to have offspring.

Are English Mastiffs Intelligent?

The English Mastiff is a dog of average intelligence which means it should be able to understand verbal commands after 25 to 40 repetitions, and obey a first command about 50% of the time.

Mastiff

The Mastiff puppy will grow into a large dog so it is critical to begin training early. They can be a little stubborn, but usually respond well to shorter training sessions using positive reinforcement training, such as clicker training and treats