Mastiff

Size: Giant

Weight: 175 - 190 lbs.

Height: 27" - 30"

Life Span: 9 - 11 years

Health Problems: Bloat; hip dysplasia; elbow dysplasia; progressive retinal atrophy (eye disorder that leads to blindness); persistent pupillary membranes (failure of PPMs to disappear at birth which causes eye problems); ectropion (outward protrusion of the eyelid); vaginal hyperplasia (swollen vagina that may protrude from the vulva in intact females); heart disease

Origin: Great Britain (Ancient Times)

Also Known As: English Mastiff, Old English Mastiff

Group: Herding / Guardian

Category: Companion Dog, Guard Dog

Exercise Needs

No special exercise requirements.

Grooming Needs

No special grooming requirements.

Temperament

The Mastiff is good-natured, self confident and gentle. Once a fierce guard dog, over time breeders have been able to adapt the Mastiff to family life. This breed is extremely intelligent and responds well to patient, consistent training. Guard training isn't necessary because the Mastiff is naturally protective and will know what to do in the case of an intruder or disturbance. The Mastiff rarely barks. When it does bark, you know its trying to tell you something. The Mastiff does not interact well with other pets, but can get used to other dogs if raised with them from a young age.

Compatibility with Kids

Good with kids but, due to its large size, should be supervised with toddlers and smaller children to avoid accidental injury.

History

It is believed that the Mastiff originated in Asia and was brought to the Mediterranean and the rest of Europe via ancient Phoenician traders. In Great Britain, breeders perfected the dog and began exporting it as a military and fighting dog around 2,000 years ago. Today the Mastiff is a good mix of a gentle companion and a protective guard dog.