Mastiff

Mastiffs have a long and storied history dating back thousands of years. They were used by ancient civilizations including the Babylonians and Romans for guarding, hunting large game, and even fighting in wars. In England, Mastiffs became popular estate guardians, with their sheer size acting as a powerful deterrent to intruders. The modern English Mastiff was refined in the 19th century and is now valued for its calm and affectionate disposition more than its guarding prowess.

• Height: 27.5–30+ inches
• Weight: 120–230+ pounds (males often exceed 200 lbs)
• Coat: Short and dense
• Colors: Fawn, apricot, brindle (all typically with a black mask)
• Eyes: Medium-sized, dark brown
• Build: Massive, muscular frame with a broad head and deep chest

The Mastiff’s sheer size is matched by a confident, stoic presence that commands respect without aggression.

Mastiffs are relatively low maintenance when it comes to grooming, but their size can make even basic tasks feel more involved.
Grooming Tips:

• Brushing: Once or twice weekly using a rubber grooming mitt to control shedding
• Bathing: Every 6–8 weeks or as needed
• Wrinkle care: Keep the folds around the face dry and clean to prevent irritation
• Nail trimming & ears: Monthly nail care; check ears weekly for debris
• Teeth: Brush 2–3 times a week to prevent tartar buildup

Despite their size, Mastiffs are surprisingly low-energy dogs that don’t require intense daily exercise.
Exercise Tips:

• Daily walks: 30–45 minutes of moderate walking each day
• Avoid over-exercising puppies: To protect growing joints and bones
• Mental enrichment: Use puzzle feeders and scent games
• Caution in heat: Mastiffs are heat-sensitive and should exercise in cooler times of day

Without appropriate movement, they may become overweight and suffer joint issues.

Mastiffs are intelligent but independent and can be a bit stubborn, so training requires patience and positive reinforcement.
Training Insights:

• Start socialization early — especially due to their size
• Keep training sessions short but consistent
• Avoid harsh corrections — they respond better to calm confidence
• Work on impulse control and leash manners early on
• Expose them to a variety of people, animals, and environments

With firm but gentle guidance, Mastiffs become reliable and respectful companions.

Feeding a Mastiff requires careful attention due to their size and predisposition to obesity and bloat.
Feeding Guidelines:

• Adults: 6–8 cups of quality kibble daily, divided into two meals
• Choose large-breed or giant-breed formulas with joint support ingredients
• Avoid exercise immediately before or after meals to reduce risk of gastric torsion
• Discuss a feeding schedule with your vet to fine-tune portion control and nutritional balance

Supplements like glucosamine and omega-3s are often recommended to support joint health.

Due to their size and needs, responsible breeding and education are key.
Resources:

• Canadian Mastiff Club
• AKC Mastiff Breed Info
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What to Ask Breeders:

• Do the parents have OFA hip and elbow scores?
• How do you socialize puppies with humans and other animals?
• What’s your experience placing dogs with families or first-time Mastiff owners?

Consider breed-specific rescues if you're open to adopting an adult dog.

Do Mastiffs make good family pets?
Yes, they are deeply loyal and gentle with children when properly socialized.

Are Mastiffs aggressive?
Not typically. They are protective but not naturally aggressive. Training is key to channeling their guarding instincts.

Do they drool?
Yes — especially after drinking water or eating. Keeping a towel nearby is recommended.

How much space does a Mastiff need?
Ideally, a home with a yard. They can adapt to apartment living only if there’s ample indoor space and access to daily walks.

Are they good with other dogs?
They can be, especially when socialized early, but their sheer size may intimidate other animals.