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English Mastiff
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A heavy-boned dog, Old English Mastiffs can outweigh a full-grown man. Their overall appearance is impressive, with a deep chest, thickly muscled legs, and a wrinkly, black-masked face. Their short coat comes in three colors: apricot, fawn, and brindle.
For those not familiar with their gentle nature and docile temperament, an encounter with this colossal canine can be startling. To be in a Mastiff's family is to be expertly and endlessly protected; these gentle guardians are enduringly loyal. For people with a low-pressure lifestyle, this breed may be the perfect fit because of their low exercise requirements. Even so, it is important to consider their size.
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More About The Breed
A heavy-boned dog, Old English Mastiffs can outweigh a full-grown man. Their overall appearance is impressive, with a deep chest, thickly muscled legs, and a wrinkly, black-masked face. Their short coat comes in three colors: apricot, fawn, and brindle.
For those not familiar with their gentle nature and docile temperament, an encounter with this colossal canine can be startling. To be in a Mastiff's family is to be expertly and endlessly protected; these gentle guardians are enduringly loyal. For people with a low-pressure lifestyle, this breed may be the perfect fit because of their low exercise requirements. Even so, it is important to consider their size.
Especially with giant breeds, early socialization is key to giving your puppy a solid foundation to reach its full potential. A gentle approach is best when attempting to train this breed. They respond well to a consistent and soft touch. Positive reinforcement and treats go a long way because Mastiffs tend to be very food motivated.
Mastiffs are not often seen in high-paced canine sports such as agility or obedience, due to their tendency to take everything at a leisurely pace.
English Mastiffs have a life expectancy of around 9 years. Their endearing, wrinkled face makes them more prone to entropion eyelids and skin infections. Joint issues are prominent in Mastiffs due to their large size. Preventative care is essential and can be implemented while your puppy is growing by feeding breed-specific food and using joint-health supplements such as glucosamine. Allergies are prevalent in the breed and good genetics are the best way to avoid these.
English Mastiffs have fairly low grooming needs. A short, double coat covers their muscular body. It requires weekly baths and minimal brushing. Their nails should be trimmed regularly and the wrinkles in their face need to be cleaned frequently, along with their ears, to avoid infection.
Low exercise requirements make this breed the ideal fit for people who don't have the time for long walks or hours of exercise. Mastiffs are often content watching the work being done from their perch in the shade. They don't tolerate the heat very well and must be kept a close eye on in the summer to prevent overheating.
Be prepared for your dog to outweigh you! Mastiffs are truly a giant breed, with males standing at least 30 inches at the shoulder and females at least 27.5 inches. They can weigh anywhere from 120 pounds for females to over 200 pounds for males. For breeds this big, early training and socialization are especially important to raise a well-adjusted pup.