The English Mastiff, or Mastiff, is one of my favorite breeds. Big, sweet and beautiful, these giants are usually good with children and are loyal companions. The recognized colors are fawn, apricot or brindle.
History – Drawings dating back to 3000 BC depict English Mastiffs on Egyptian monuments.
Size – This is a BIG dog. The minimum height is 30 inches at the shoulder.
Temperament – Sweet and mild-mannered. This is a dog that wants to be with you – meaning he’ll want to sit on your feet, your legs or even your lap if he can.
Pros -
- Good watchdog (just their size alone will probably deter burglars!)
- Peaceful and affectionate disposition.
- Needs only moderate exercise.
- Their short coat is easy to care for.
Cons -
- This large breeds needs a lot of space.
- They drool.
- Can be a challenge to train.
As with other large breeds the Mastiff is prone to joint problems, hip dysplasia and arthritis. Some Mastiffs have ear problems so regular ear cleaning is a must. They are also prone to “bloat” as well as eye and thyroid problems. If you’re getting a puppy remember to find a good breeder to avoid genetic health issues.
Mastiffs have a tendency to overeat so weight-watching is a necessity.
The Mastiff Club of America has links for Mastiff Rescue and Breeder Referral.
If you love a big dog and don’t mind drool this could be the perfect breed for you. As with any breed make sure to do your homework before getting a dog.
Please send me your Mastiff photos to include here. I’d also love to hear all about your Mastiffs!
Sheba
