Mastiff

The Mastiff is impressively large, dignified and courageous gentle-giant breed. When it comes to guarding and protecting, it's one of the most loyal and courageous dogs in existence.

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Mastiff Breed overview

The Mastiff is an enormous dog with a massive head, weighing between 150 and 230 pounds. Despite its massive size and tough exterior, this breed is renowned for its calm and gentle temperament. The breed is highly devoted to its family and loves showing affection. The Mastiff is often used as a guard dog because its very appearance is enough to deter any potential intruders.

The breed is often described as 'noble' due to its imposing appearance and dignified demeanor. Mastiffs are fiercely loyal and will go to great lengths to protect their owners when they sense any kind of threat.

Height:
27-32 inches
Weight:
130-220 lbs
Life expectancy:
6-10 years

What To Expect When Caring For a Mastiff

Training

Mastiffs are known to be stubborn and independent, so consistent training and positive reinforcement are necessary. Early socialization is crucial to their development by exposure to different people, animals, and sounds. As they are a large breed, training them is crucial for avoiding any destructive tendencies. Training should be interactive and positive rather than coercive.

Mastiffs respond well to food rewards and praise. The breed is sensitive and may shut down if handled too roughly.

Nutrition

Mastiffs require a high-quality diet that is rich in protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. Feeding them two small meals a day rather than one big meal can prevent bloat and other digestive issues. Overfeeding or feeding them inappropriate food can lead to obesity and other health problems.

It is also essential to provide clean drinking water at all times to ensure that they are hydrated.

Health

Mastiffs are generally healthy, but like all breeds, they are prone to certain health conditions, including hip and elbow dysplasia, bloat, and heart problems. Obesity is another issue that can affect this breed and cause many health problems. Regular vet check-ups, a healthy diet, and moderate exercise can help prevent many of these issues from arising.

The average lifespan of a Mastiff is between 8-10 years. Therefore, it is important to make sure they are healthy and taken care of throughout their life.

Exercise

Mastiffs need low to moderate exercise amounts. Short walks and time in the backyard should suffice. However, exercise should not be overdone, as it can cause joint strain and muscle problems. Mastiffs tend to overheat quickly, especially in hot and humid environments, so exercise should be limited to cooler parts of the day.

Grooming

Mastiffs have a short and dense coat that requires minimal grooming. They shed lightly year-round, but more significantly twice a year. Weekly brushing helps remove loose hair and reduces shedding. Regular ear cleaning and nail trimming should be part of their grooming routine.

It is important to check for any skin issues, as their folds can trap dirt, moisture, and bacteria. Damp and warm areas can lead to infections and other health issues.

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Mastiff Traits & Characteristics

Mastiffs are a giant breed and can grow up to 30 inches tall. Their distinguishing characteristic is their head, which should be large and square. The breed's coat can come in a variety of colors, including fawn, apricot, and brindle. Their weight can range between 150 to 230 pounds. According to AKC standards, the ideal breed temperament is dignified, calm, and stuffed with bravery.

The AKC standard calls for male Mastiffs to be between 30 and 36 inches tall and weigh between 160 and 230 pounds. Female Mastiffs are slightly smaller, standing between 27 and 33 inches tall and weighing between 120 and 170 pounds. Their coat should be short, straight, and dense, with an undercoat that protects against cold weather.

Affection

The degree to which a breed shows love and affection towards its human family members.

independent lovey-dovey

Mastiffs are known for being independent and aloof, and although they are loyal and protective of their families, they are not typically affectionate in the way that some other breeds are. They tend to be more like watchful guardians, keeping a close eye on their loved ones and intervening if necessary.

Children

How well a breed interacts with children, including tolerance for play and energy level.

not suitable for kids great with kids

Mastiffs can be good with children, but their large size and protective nature means they may require close supervision to ensure they don't accidentally knock children over or become too aggressive. They tend to be calm around kids and will gladly let them pet or cuddle with them, but may not actively engage in roughhousing or games.

Dogs

The breed's friendliness and sociability towards other dogs.

not dog friendly very dog friendly

Mastiffs have a reputation for being aggressive towards other dogs, especially those of the same sex. They are highly territorial animals and will not hesitate to defend their home and family from perceived threats. Early socialization and training can help minimize this tendency, but owners should always be cautious when introducing their Mastiff to other dogs.

Strangers

The breed's reaction to unfamiliar people, including whether they tend to be wary or friendly.

reserved with strangers friendly with everyone

Mastiffs tend to be wary of strangers, and may even be aggressive towards them if they feel their family is under threat. Early socialization and training can help mitigate this tendency, but it's important for owners to be prepared to manage their Mastiff's protective instincts around new people.

Playfulness

The breed's activity level and tendency to engage in play and games.

laid-back very playful

Mastiffs tend to be fairly low-energy dogs, preferring lounging and napping to running and playing. That's not to say they won't engage in the occasional game of fetch or tug-of-war, but their activity levels are generally lower than some other breeds. Owners should provide plenty of mental stimulation to keep their Mastiff's mind sharp.

Alertness

The breed's level of awareness and vigilance, which can affect their ability to perform certain tasks or jobs

less alert very alert

Mastiffs are highly alert animals, with keen senses that allow them to detect even subtle changes in their environment. They have a strong prey drive and will readily chase down rodents, cats, and other small animals if given the chance. This alertness also means that they make excellent watchdogs.

Adaptability

The breed's ability to adjust to new environments and situations, including whether they are adaptable or may become stressed.

less adaptable very adaptable

Mastiffs are adaptable to a certain extent, but tend to do best in homes with stable, predictable routines. They can become anxious or stressed in chaotic or unpredictable environments, and may require time to adjust to new people or situations. Early socialization and exposure to a variety of experiences can help build their confidence.

Shedding

The amount of hair a breed sheds, which can affect allergies and cleanliness.

no shedding hair everywhere

Mastiffs have short, dense coats that shed moderately throughout the year. They do tend to “blow” their coats twice a year, which can result in more significant shedding for a few weeks at a time. Regular brushing can help control shedding and keep their coats healthy and shiny.

Grooming

The amount of maintenance required to keep a breed's coat healthy and clean.

low maintenance high maintenance

Mastiffs have relatively low grooming needs, thanks to their short coats. However, they do require regular nail trimming, teeth cleaning, and ear cleaning to maintain their overall health and hygiene. Owners should also keep an eye on their facial folds and wrinkle-prone areas to prevent irritation or infection.

Drooling

The amount of saliva a breed produces, which can affect cleanliness and potential drool-related issues.

dry mouthed heavy drooler

Mastiffs are well-known for their drooling tendencies, with some individuals producing enough saliva to fill a bucket on a daily basis. They are definitely not the breed for those who are squeamish about slobber, but for those who can handle it, they make wonderful, loving pets.

Size

The breed's overall size, including their weight and height.

very small very large

Mastiffs are one of the largest breeds of dog, with males typically weighing between 150-250 pounds and standing over 30 inches tall at the shoulder. This size can be intimidating to some people, but their calm and gentle nature makes them wonderful family pets for those who enjoy big dogs.

Energy

The breed's overall activity level, including their need for exercise and play.

couch potato high energy

Mastiffs are generally considered low-energy dogs, requiring only moderate amounts of exercise to maintain their health and fitness. They do enjoy the occasional walk or game of fetch, but are equally content to lounge on the couch with their family. Owners should be cautious not to over-exercise their Mastiff, as they are prone to joint problems and other health issues.

Exercise

The breed's need for physical activity and exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

low exercise needs high exercise needs

Mastiffs require moderate amounts of exercise to maintain their health and happiness, but are not as high-energy as some other breeds. A daily walk or game of fetch, combined with plenty of mental stimulation and socialization, can go a long way towards keeping a Mastiff well-adjusted and happy.

Working

The breed's suitability for working and performing certain tasks or jobs.

not suitable for working great for working

Mastiffs have a long history of working as guard dogs and livestock protectors, and their protective instincts can be harnessed for a variety of tasks. They may also excel at obedience training, tracking, and other working dog disciplines, so long as they are adequately trained and given plenty of mental stimulation.

Hunting

The breed's natural hunting abilities, including their prey drive, scenting abilities, and tracking skills.

not suitable for hunting great for hunting

Mastiffs are not typically well-suited to hunting or tracking, due to their large size, low activity levels, and lack of natural hunting instincts. They are more likely to laze around and watch the world go by than they are to actively seek out prey.

Vigor

The breed's physical stamina and endurance, including their ability to maintain high levels of activity and energy.

low-drive high vigor

Mastiffs have moderate levels of physical stamina and endurance, and can be trained to handle a variety of physical tasks. However, their tendency towards laziness and their low energy levels can make them less suitable for high-performance sports or working dog roles.

Health

The breed's overall health and potential health issues, including whether they may be prone to certain illnesses or conditions.

less healthy very healthy

Mastiffs are generally healthy dogs, but can be prone to certain health issues such as hip dysplasia, bloat, and joint problems. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and proactive veterinary care can help minimize these risks and keep them healthy and happy well into their golden years.

Obesity

The breed's tendency to gain weight and become overweight or obese, including whether they require extra monitoring and exercise.

not prone to obesity highly prone to obesity

Mastiffs can be prone to obesity and weight-related health issues, especially if they are not provided with adequate exercise and a healthy diet. Overfeeding can also contribute to obesity and other health problems, so owners should be careful about portion control and feeding schedules.

Cold

The breed's ability to tolerate cold weather conditions, including whether they require extra warmth and protection.

not cold tolerant high cold tolerance

Mastiffs have short, dense coats that do an adequate job of keeping them warm in cool weather, but they may require extra warmth and protection in extremely cold temperatures. They are not well-suited to living in an outdoor kennel or exposed to harsh elements for long periods of time.

Heat

The breed's ability to tolerate hot weather conditions, including whether they require extra cooling and protection.

not heat tolerant high heat tolerance

Mastiffs are not particularly well-suited to hot weather, due to their short noses and tendency to overheat. They should always have access to clean, cool water and shade, and should be kept indoors as much as possible during the hottest parts of the day.

Apartment

The breed's suitability for new or inexperienced dog owners, including their trainability and temperament.

not suitable for apartments great for apartments

Mastiffs are not typically well-suited to apartment living, due to their large size and exercise needs. They require plenty of space to move around and stretch their legs, and can become bored and destructive in confined spaces. A house with a yard is generally a better choice for this breed.

Wanderlust

The breed's tendency to wander or roam, including whether they may become lost or require a lot of supervision.

less likely to wander very likely to wander

Mastiffs are generally not prone to wandering or roaming, and are content to stay close to home and their family. However, their protective instincts may drive them to investigate potential threats or perceived intruders in their territory, so it's important to keep them on a leash or in a fenced yard when outside.

Sensitivity

The breed's sensitivity to criticism or negative reinforcement, including whether they may become stressed or anxious.

less sensitive very sensitive

Mastiffs are generally not very sensitive to criticism or negative reinforcement, and may require firm, consistent discipline to curb any unwanted behaviors. Their independence and stubbornness can make training and discipline a challenge at times, but with the right approach and plenty of positive reinforcement, they can be well-behaved and obedient pets.

Separation

The breed's tolerance for being left alone, including whether they may become anxious or destructive.

not suitable for alone time great at being alone

Mastiffs are not typically well-suited to being left alone for long periods of time, and may become anxious or destructive if left alone for too long. They do best in homes where someone is present for most of the day, or where there is another dog or pet to keep them company.

Barking

The amount of barking a breed tends to do, including whether they may be vocal or prone to excessive barking.

quiet very vocal

Mastiffs are not typically excessive barkers, but will alarm bark if they sense a threat to their home or family. They are generally quiet and reserved animals, preferring to observe their surroundings rather than actively engaging with them. Proper socialization can help mitigate any excessive barking tendencies.

Mental

The breed's need for mental stimulation and engagement, including whether they are intelligent and require challenging activities.

happy to lounge needs a job or activity

Mastiffs require plenty of mental stimulation to keep their minds sharp and prevent boredom. They are intelligent animals and enjoy problem-solving, which can be accomplished through puzzle toys, training exercises, and other mentally stimulating activities. Their independence and stubbornness can make training and mental stimulation a challenge at times.

Novice_owners

Some dogs are simply easier than others; they take to training better and are fairly easygoing. They're also resilient enough to bounce back from your mistakes or inconsistencies.

not suitable for novice owners great for novice owners

Mastiffs are not the easiest breed for novice dog owners to manage, due to their size, stubbornness, and protective instincts. They require firm and consistent training from an early age, as well as early socialization and exposure to a variety of people, animals, and situations. Experienced dog owners may find their independent nature and calm demeanor to be a good match.

Trainability

The ease of training a breed, including whether they are intelligent, obedient, and willing to learn.

difficult to train easy to train

Mastiffs are intelligent animals, but can be stubborn and independent-minded at times. They require firm, consistent training from an early age, and respond best to positive reinforcement and reward-based training methods. They can be slow learners at times, but are generally willing to please their owners with the right motivation.

Affection

independent lovey-dovey

The degree to which a breed shows love and affection towards its human family members.

Mastiffs are known for being independent and aloof, and although they are loyal and protective of their families, they are not typically affectionate in the way that some other breeds are. They tend to be more like watchful guardians, keeping a close eye on their loved ones and intervening if necessary.

Children

not suitable for kids great with kids

How well a breed interacts with children, including tolerance for play and energy level.

Mastiffs can be good with children, but their large size and protective nature means they may require close supervision to ensure they don't accidentally knock children over or become too aggressive. They tend to be calm around kids and will gladly let them pet or cuddle with them, but may not actively engage in roughhousing or games.

Dogs

not dog friendly very dog friendly

The breed's friendliness and sociability towards other dogs.

Mastiffs have a reputation for being aggressive towards other dogs, especially those of the same sex. They are highly territorial animals and will not hesitate to defend their home and family from perceived threats. Early socialization and training can help minimize this tendency, but owners should always be cautious when introducing their Mastiff to other dogs.

Strangers

reserved with strangers friendly with everyone

The breed's reaction to unfamiliar people, including whether they tend to be wary or friendly.

Mastiffs tend to be wary of strangers, and may even be aggressive towards them if they feel their family is under threat. Early socialization and training can help mitigate this tendency, but it's important for owners to be prepared to manage their Mastiff's protective instincts around new people.

Playfulness

laid-back very playful

The breed's activity level and tendency to engage in play and games.

Mastiffs tend to be fairly low-energy dogs, preferring lounging and napping to running and playing. That's not to say they won't engage in the occasional game of fetch or tug-of-war, but their activity levels are generally lower than some other breeds. Owners should provide plenty of mental stimulation to keep their Mastiff's mind sharp.

Alertness

less alert very alert

The breed's level of awareness and vigilance, which can affect their ability to perform certain tasks or jobs

Mastiffs are highly alert animals, with keen senses that allow them to detect even subtle changes in their environment. They have a strong prey drive and will readily chase down rodents, cats, and other small animals if given the chance. This alertness also means that they make excellent watchdogs.

Adaptability

less adaptable very adaptable

The breed's ability to adjust to new environments and situations, including whether they are adaptable or may become stressed.

Mastiffs are adaptable to a certain extent, but tend to do best in homes with stable, predictable routines. They can become anxious or stressed in chaotic or unpredictable environments, and may require time to adjust to new people or situations. Early socialization and exposure to a variety of experiences can help build their confidence.

Shedding

no shedding hair everywhere

The amount of hair a breed sheds, which can affect allergies and cleanliness.

Mastiffs have short, dense coats that shed moderately throughout the year. They do tend to “blow” their coats twice a year, which can result in more significant shedding for a few weeks at a time. Regular brushing can help control shedding and keep their coats healthy and shiny.

Grooming

low maintenance high maintenance

The amount of maintenance required to keep a breed's coat healthy and clean.

Mastiffs have relatively low grooming needs, thanks to their short coats. However, they do require regular nail trimming, teeth cleaning, and ear cleaning to maintain their overall health and hygiene. Owners should also keep an eye on their facial folds and wrinkle-prone areas to prevent irritation or infection.

Drooling

dry mouthed heavy drooler

The amount of saliva a breed produces, which can affect cleanliness and potential drool-related issues.

Mastiffs are well-known for their drooling tendencies, with some individuals producing enough saliva to fill a bucket on a daily basis. They are definitely not the breed for those who are squeamish about slobber, but for those who can handle it, they make wonderful, loving pets.

Size

very small very large

The breed's overall size, including their weight and height.

Mastiffs are one of the largest breeds of dog, with males typically weighing between 150-250 pounds and standing over 30 inches tall at the shoulder. This size can be intimidating to some people, but their calm and gentle nature makes them wonderful family pets for those who enjoy big dogs.

Energy

couch potato high energy

The breed's overall activity level, including their need for exercise and play.

Mastiffs are generally considered low-energy dogs, requiring only moderate amounts of exercise to maintain their health and fitness. They do enjoy the occasional walk or game of fetch, but are equally content to lounge on the couch with their family. Owners should be cautious not to over-exercise their Mastiff, as they are prone to joint problems and other health issues.

Exercise

low exercise needs high exercise needs

The breed's need for physical activity and exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Mastiffs require moderate amounts of exercise to maintain their health and happiness, but are not as high-energy as some other breeds. A daily walk or game of fetch, combined with plenty of mental stimulation and socialization, can go a long way towards keeping a Mastiff well-adjusted and happy.

Working

not suitable for working great for working

The breed's suitability for working and performing certain tasks or jobs.

Mastiffs have a long history of working as guard dogs and livestock protectors, and their protective instincts can be harnessed for a variety of tasks. They may also excel at obedience training, tracking, and other working dog disciplines, so long as they are adequately trained and given plenty of mental stimulation.

Hunting

not suitable for hunting great for hunting

The breed's natural hunting abilities, including their prey drive, scenting abilities, and tracking skills.

Mastiffs are not typically well-suited to hunting or tracking, due to their large size, low activity levels, and lack of natural hunting instincts. They are more likely to laze around and watch the world go by than they are to actively seek out prey.

Vigor

low-drive high vigor

The breed's physical stamina and endurance, including their ability to maintain high levels of activity and energy.

Mastiffs have moderate levels of physical stamina and endurance, and can be trained to handle a variety of physical tasks. However, their tendency towards laziness and their low energy levels can make them less suitable for high-performance sports or working dog roles.

Health

less healthy very healthy

The breed's overall health and potential health issues, including whether they may be prone to certain illnesses or conditions.

Mastiffs are generally healthy dogs, but can be prone to certain health issues such as hip dysplasia, bloat, and joint problems. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and proactive veterinary care can help minimize these risks and keep them healthy and happy well into their golden years.

Obesity

not prone to obesity highly prone to obesity

The breed's tendency to gain weight and become overweight or obese, including whether they require extra monitoring and exercise.

Mastiffs can be prone to obesity and weight-related health issues, especially if they are not provided with adequate exercise and a healthy diet. Overfeeding can also contribute to obesity and other health problems, so owners should be careful about portion control and feeding schedules.

Cold

not cold tolerant high cold tolerance

The breed's ability to tolerate cold weather conditions, including whether they require extra warmth and protection.

Mastiffs have short, dense coats that do an adequate job of keeping them warm in cool weather, but they may require extra warmth and protection in extremely cold temperatures. They are not well-suited to living in an outdoor kennel or exposed to harsh elements for long periods of time.

Heat

not heat tolerant high heat tolerance

The breed's ability to tolerate hot weather conditions, including whether they require extra cooling and protection.

Mastiffs are not particularly well-suited to hot weather, due to their short noses and tendency to overheat. They should always have access to clean, cool water and shade, and should be kept indoors as much as possible during the hottest parts of the day.

Apartment

not suitable for apartments great for apartments

The breed's suitability for new or inexperienced dog owners, including their trainability and temperament.

Mastiffs are not typically well-suited to apartment living, due to their large size and exercise needs. They require plenty of space to move around and stretch their legs, and can become bored and destructive in confined spaces. A house with a yard is generally a better choice for this breed.

Wanderlust

less likely to wander very likely to wander

The breed's tendency to wander or roam, including whether they may become lost or require a lot of supervision.

Mastiffs are generally not prone to wandering or roaming, and are content to stay close to home and their family. However, their protective instincts may drive them to investigate potential threats or perceived intruders in their territory, so it's important to keep them on a leash or in a fenced yard when outside.

Sensitivity

less sensitive very sensitive

The breed's sensitivity to criticism or negative reinforcement, including whether they may become stressed or anxious.

Mastiffs are generally not very sensitive to criticism or negative reinforcement, and may require firm, consistent discipline to curb any unwanted behaviors. Their independence and stubbornness can make training and discipline a challenge at times, but with the right approach and plenty of positive reinforcement, they can be well-behaved and obedient pets.

Separation

not suitable for alone time great at being alone

The breed's tolerance for being left alone, including whether they may become anxious or destructive.

Mastiffs are not typically well-suited to being left alone for long periods of time, and may become anxious or destructive if left alone for too long. They do best in homes where someone is present for most of the day, or where there is another dog or pet to keep them company.

Barking

quiet very vocal

The amount of barking a breed tends to do, including whether they may be vocal or prone to excessive barking.

Mastiffs are not typically excessive barkers, but will alarm bark if they sense a threat to their home or family. They are generally quiet and reserved animals, preferring to observe their surroundings rather than actively engaging with them. Proper socialization can help mitigate any excessive barking tendencies.

Mental

happy to lounge needs a job or activity

The breed's need for mental stimulation and engagement, including whether they are intelligent and require challenging activities.

Mastiffs require plenty of mental stimulation to keep their minds sharp and prevent boredom. They are intelligent animals and enjoy problem-solving, which can be accomplished through puzzle toys, training exercises, and other mentally stimulating activities. Their independence and stubbornness can make training and mental stimulation a challenge at times.

Novice_owners

not suitable for novice owners great for novice owners

Some dogs are simply easier than others; they take to training better and are fairly easygoing. They're also resilient enough to bounce back from your mistakes or inconsistencies.

Mastiffs are not the easiest breed for novice dog owners to manage, due to their size, stubbornness, and protective instincts. They require firm and consistent training from an early age, as well as early socialization and exposure to a variety of people, animals, and situations. Experienced dog owners may find their independent nature and calm demeanor to be a good match.

Trainability

difficult to train easy to train

The ease of training a breed, including whether they are intelligent, obedient, and willing to learn.

Mastiffs are intelligent animals, but can be stubborn and independent-minded at times. They require firm, consistent training from an early age, and respond best to positive reinforcement and reward-based training methods. They can be slow learners at times, but are generally willing to please their owners with the right motivation.

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History of the Mastiff

The Mastiff is an ancient breed that traces back to Tibet in Central Asia. It was bred for its strength and bravery and was used as a guard dog and for hunting big game. The breed made its way to Europe and was eventually developed in England, where it became an essential guard dog for estates and castles. They served as war dogs, fighting alongside soldiers and even taking down knights off their horses during battles.

Mastiffs were imported to America in the late 1800s and were recognized by the AKC in 1885. They gained popularity over the years and are now a popular breed among families and dog lovers alike.

Mastiff Puppies

Mastiff puppies are born small and grow rapidly, reaching their full size within 12-18 months. However, they should not be over-exercised during their early years to prevent joint issues and other health problems later in life. Early socialization is crucial to their development, introducing them to different people, animals, and sounds. The breed can be stubborn, so consistent training and positive reinforcement are crucial.

Puppy mastiffs require low to moderate exercise amounts, and too much running or jumping can lead to broken bones or damaged joints in later years.