Mastiff Breed Information

Original Function: guardian

Temperament: Calm, affectionate to owners, but capable of guarding.

Characteristics: Large, massive, powerful, symmetrical, well-knit frame. A combination of grandeur and courage.

Recommended for: Knowledgeable handlers/families.

Lifespan: 8 - 12 yrs

 

Height: 70-76cm (27"-30")

Coat: Short and close-lying, but not too fine over shoulders, neck and back.

Colour: Apricot-fawn, silver-fawn, fawn, or dark fawn-brindle. In any case, muzzle, ears and nose should be black with black around the orbits, and extending upwards between them.

General Appearance: Extra large solid body with a deep wide chest. Broad head with small eyes & ears that hang down. Tail long.

The Mastiff is an ancient breed of dog, having had varied roles throughout history. From dogs of war, Bear baiting dogs, to guardians of castles and large estates. The breed hit its lowest point after The Second World War. Food rationing made it very difficult for people to keep large dogs. As a consequence numbers had dwindled to the point the breed had almost died out. The Mastiff's name today is the Old English Mastiff, as their lineage trace back comes from two surviving English strains. They were used in England for hunting and guarding, peasants kept them to ward off wolves and robbers, their size alone is very deterring. They are a good natured dog normally gentle and docile, they are a loyal family companion.

Mastiffs raised with love and care in a family situation make delightful, protective, loyal companions. In spite their impressive size and fearsome look, by nature, Mastiffs are the most phlagmatic dogs of the dogdom. They are generally placid by nature. They are a magnificent, powerful, ancient breed. They were originally bred as a war dog.

When buying a Mastiff be prepared for a big responsibility. A Mastiff should look like a Mastiff. Choose a registered and reputable breeder. A Mastiff puppy needs lots of love, training, a good, sensible, quality balanced diet with lots of socialisation with gentle handling.

Grooming- The smooth, short-haired coat is easy to groom. Brush with a firm bristle brush and wipe over with a piece of toweling or chamois for a gleaming finish. Bathe or dry shampoo when necessary. This breed is an average shedder.

Exercise- regular exercise is needed, they are inclined to be on the lazy side so exercise with a purpose will motivate them more to do it.

Health- This breed, some may suffer from hip dysplasia, bloat and eye problems.
For Diet and other general dog health information Health/Nutrition

Puppy & Dogs4sale adverts

Currently no ads please check again soon

Dog Profiles

Currently no ads please check again soon

Breeders

If no puppies are advertised for this breed. The site is formatted, so you can find breeders of the breed you are interested in and contact them directly to help find what you are looking for.

Breeders

Other information on this breed

Websites:

Clubs:

MASTIFF CLUB OF VICTORIA
www.mastiff.com.au

ASSOCIATION OF ALL MASTIFF BREED VICTORIA
www.mastiff.org.au