Alt Text
Hill’s Brand Horizon

Mastiff

dog Breed Profile

The mastiff is truly a giant among dogs.

Attributes

Droopy eyes, floppy ears (naturally).

Size

Weight

175-190 lbs.

175-190 lbs.

Height

28 in.

(at withers)

31 in.

Coat

Length

Short.

Color

Fawn. Apricot, Brindle.

Care

Exercise

<30 minutes/day

Energy level

Laid Back

Longevity

8-10 yrs.

Needs

High

Traits

Barking

Moderate

Snoring

High

Drooling

High

Digging

Low

Grooming Needs

Low

Social Needs

High

Club recognition

AKC Class.

Working.

UKC Class.

Guardian Dog.

Prevalence

Common.

The Mastiff Dog Breed

A mastiff reportedly came to America on the Mayflower. The fully grown male is 30-31 inches tall and can weigh as much as 200 pounds.

About the Mastiff

The mastiff is truly a giant among dogs.

Mastiff personality

The mastiff is a dignified yet good-natured animal. He is loving and affectionate toward his family, and his calm demeanor makes him a good companion for older children. However, the breed is not recommended for toddlers because of its great size.

The mastiff's guard dog roots are likely to manifest themselves when visitors come to the home. The dog tends to be suspicious of strangers and protective of his family and perceived territory. Even so, the mastiff barks infrequently.

What to expect

The mastiff can be a noble, loving family pet, but his zealous guardianship requires moderation through socialization and obedience training. It is crucial to expose a mastiff to as many new people, places and situations as possible, particularly when during puppy hood.

Couch potatoes may find a kindred spirit in the mastiff, but both the dog and his people will be fitter and happier if they get regular exercise.

Mastiff guardians should consider buying bibs for their dogs and earplugs for themselves when they buy dog supplies. The mastiff is a well-known drooler and tends to snore loudly.

Grooming is quick and easy. The short coat requires little more than a weekly brushing and a quick wipe with a towel or chamois cloth.

As is true with other large-breed dogs, mastiffs generally do not live as long as smaller dogs do. The average lifespan is 8 to 10 years.

History of the Mastiff

The mastiff, also known as the old English mastiff, boasts an ancient heritage. The dogs were found in Britain at the time that the Romans invaded the island they may have been brought there by Phoenician traders as early as the 6th century BC. The Romans employed the dogs as guardians for sheep and bodyguards for people.

A mastiff reportedly came to America on the Mayflower. Today, the dog is well established in England, Canada and America. Although the dog's talents include guarding, police work, and military work as well as search and rescues, many of today's mastiffs consider their mission in life to be a loving companion to their human packs.

According to the Cynographica Britannica, which was published in 1800, What the Lion is to the Cat, the Mastiff is to the Dog. The noblest of the family, he stands alone, and all others sink before him.

Adopt a pet.
Change a life.

Are you prepared to adopt a pet? Use these tools to make sure you’re ready for the commitment.

 

Need help finding the right food for your dog?

Other breeds you might be interested in