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General Description
The American Mastiff is a large, powerful dog with a wide, heavy, rectangular-shaped head and a powerfully muscular build. The breed has a deep, rounded chest and well-sprung ribs. Their limbs are well-built, straight, and well-muscled, and their burly necks are thick and slightly arched. American Mastiffs have a long tail that reaches the hocks, and a pair of high set ears that are semi-round in shape. Their medium-sized muzzle is well-proportioned and features a black nose. American Mastiffs have teeth that close in a scissors bite and dark, amber-colored eyes. American Mastiff puppies are born darkly colored, and as they get older they become lighter. The breed’s coat can vary slightly in color, but is usually a light fawn that may or may not have some white markings.
This breed also comes in a blonde brindle coloring with a black mask.
Character
American Mastiffs make excellent family pets as they are terrific with children and hopelessly devoted to their owners. They are dignified, mellow, calm, and quiet. While American Mastiffs are very protective, they are never aggressive. Rather, they make excellent watch dogs and only attack if their families (especially children) are in danger. American Mastiffs are social, wise, and gentle with people, and they are very patient with small children and other animals.
General Health
American Mastiffs typically live for 10 to 12 years.
American Mastiffs do well in an apartment setting with daily exercise. As they grow older and tend to become a little lazy, a daily walk will do, or a run in a fenced in yard. They are relatively inactive indoors.
History
The American Mastiff was developed by Fredericka Wagner. She constructed the breed in Piketon, OH after crossing an English Mastiff with a dog thought to be an Anatolian Mastiff or Anatolian Shepherd. After much selective breeding, Fredericka Wagner was able to create Mastiff puppies with a tight lower lip line and a dry mouth.
Maintenance
American Mastiffs have a short-haired coat that is comparatively easy to take care of. They require regular brushing and their coat can be wiped down with a cloth for a glossy sheen. They require baths and dry shampoos only as necessary. American Mastiffs are average shedders.
Ideal Environment
The American Mastiff can do acceptably in a small household or apartment if he is sufficiently exercised. They are comparatively inactive indoors, so their ideal living conditions would consist of at least a small yard. The American Mastiff has a propensity to become lazy, but they will have a better quality of life if exercise is initiated.
The American Mastiff is a dog that needs a job and daily exercise. Mastiffs also need rules, guidance and demand respect. With these applied you will have a great dog. If not, you may experience trouble.
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American Mastiff Q&AAsk a Question
Origin of breedJust wondering how this breed became registered as a purebred when the origin and history of one of the dogs is unknown?....I mean was it an anatolian mastiff or a anatolian shepard?...two completely different dogs, forgive me for...
Asked by Anonymous - 0 answers
I am looking to adopt an AM in 2008. I had a St. Bernard for 9.5 years - he was an ...I am looking to adopt an AM in 2008. I had a St. Bernard for 9.5 years - he was an energetic puppy but was not the type to chew on furniture, etc. What is the energy level of a properly exercised AM?
Asked by Anonymous - 2 answers
I am looking into getting a AM but have never owned one. I worked at Boxer breeding kennel ...I am looking into getting a AM but have never owned one. I worked at Boxer breeding kennel for a number of years so being around dogs is not an issue. But I'm not very sure as to where I can find a AM breeder. I dont want one for...
Asked by Anonymous - 1 answers
We have a 11 week old AM. We know that obedience training is important but would like to ...We have a 11 week old AM. We know that obedience training is important but would like to know at what age ( or problems exhibited) to start this training?
Asked by Anonymous - 1 answers
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