Mastiff
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General Description
(English Mastiff)The Old English Mastiff is one of the most massive and powerful dog breeds, with a very solid build. The head is heavy-boned and square, with a short muzzle, and distinctive dewlaps and flews ("the pendulous lateral parts of a dog's upper lip."). The medium-sized ears are pendant and fall just below the cheeks. The eyes are small and can be either dark or hazel, the teeth meet in a scissors bite, although a slight undershot bite is also acceptable in dog shows. The single coat comes in a variety of colors, from fawn to brindle to silver. Regardless of coat color, the face will always have a black mask. The tail is set high, and curves down, reaching to the hocks. The single coat variation comes in a variety of colors and can be hard to find.
Character
The Mastiff is, like all very large dogs, self-confident and calm. It has a gentle nature, and is affectionate and playful, although toddlers should not be left alone with them. It makes an excellent watchdog, and will not let strangers into the home until a family member indicates it is all right. Mastiffs should be socialized as puppies, otherwise they will become dog-aggressive. Obedience training can be a challenge.
Size
27 - 32 inches
Weight
150 - 200 pounds
General Health
As with all large dogs, they are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia. Bloat (gastric torsion) is also a problem. Other illnesses are Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD), a joint problem, ectropion (eyelid turns inwards), eye problems such as progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). And persistent pupillary membranes (PPM). Properly cared for, the Mastiff can live around 12 years.
History
The English Mastiff is thought to have been brought to England by Phoenician traders around the 6th century BC. They were used in bull and bear baiting, as well as dog fighting, and also as a sheep guardian. The Mastiff is considered to be the oldest breed of English dog. They were introduced into North America via the Mayflower. The huge and hungry breed did not fare well in England during World War II, but was re-established with dogs sent from the United States and Canada.
Maintenance
The Mastiff has a smooth, short‑haired coat, and is an average shedder. Brush on a weekly basis with a firm-bristle brush. Give a bath or dry shampoo only when necessary.
Ideal Environment
The Mastiff have a tendency to be lazy, and so will do fine in an apartment environment, as they'll just laze around. Indeed, a house with a small yard will do just fine. However, in order to keep their weight down the Mastiff should be exercised frequently. They should also always be leashed. Let there be plenty of room in your home, since the Mastiff tends to wheeze and snore loudly.
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Big boy
I have a english mastiff that is 8 months old and already is 100 pounds at least. I got him when he was 2 months old and he was liftable. He is just a big baby. He is gentle when is given food. He gets along with our other dog but does not like cats. He is just a wonderful dog.
Pros: They are very sweet. Most are good with kids other dogs. These dogs are very gentle.
Cons: They slobber alot. Usually do not like cats. Have a loud bark.
lovely girl
My girl s five months old weighing aorund 60 to 70 pounds. she is one of the best dog I ever had. She loves attetion which can get a little anoying sometimes but at night she is calm. I fell in love with the mastiff around 3 years ago when I got my ffirst mastiff she was also female but she died.
Pros: good with other dogs, doesnt bark, the best dog I have ever had.
Cons: there are'nt any I can think of.
Morgin my mastiff
Morgin is about 8 years old, and still has a lot of energy. she is so cute and sometimes makes funny faces. This is a great dog to have as a pet and companion, and she does well with our other dog. She is fun to play with but she uses her paws and well i guess you can say slaps you on the leg and it hurts, but she is so cute it is hard to get mad at her.
Pros: Great with kids, scare off people who try to breakinto your house, and they have a cute face.
Cons: eat a lot, and slober a lot.
Thinking of owning a mastiff
Our family is on its 5th mastiff. We can not imagine life without one of these gentle giants. However, they do snore, drool, and potty in large quantities. They eat alot, the vet bills are spendy, and when break up in the spring happens we have to shampoo the rugs often. Guess we are just crazy. On the up side I call my male my "snuggy bear", he is there rain ,sleet, snow and heat. The females will spend all day entertaining the children and guests. And when people drive up they often turn around and leave if they are uninvited.Works for us...
Pros: fabulous family dogs
Cons: if you can't take a shaker bottle full of muddy water around your house then this is not the breed for you.
English Mastiff
I have my very first English Mastiff Molly. She is only a few months old (born this past May) but she has already stolen the heart of my whole family. I am now inlove with the breed. She is no less than amazing! I have an autistic 5 year old who Molly has become a best friend to. Seeing the two of them play and run has been the biggest blessing in the world!
Pros: Loving, calm, protective
Cons: slober. slober, slober.....and more slober, but well worth it!
English Mastiffs
My Mastiff, Otis (200 lbs.) is the neighborhood favorite and the heart of my heart. I socialized him a great deal as a puppy and set clear limits and he's great with other people and pets. He listens very well. He's also the most loving creature I've ever known. His emotional intelligence is amazing and he'll be there for anyone who's upset to lay a soft, heavy head on their lap. He's also very playful and silly. the perfect companion!
Pros: Sensitvie and sweet, soft, loving, you never have to be afraid when you've got one around, quick learner, sense of humor
Cons: Slobber (but nothing a few, well placed "drool towels" can't make a minor issue), finding housing with such a large dog, expensive, can't take him on long hikes or runs.