~What is a Mastiff? A Mastiff is a giant breed dog. There are many different Mastiff breeds, but the proper noun "Mastiff" generally refers to the English Mastiff. English Mastiffs come in three colors-fawn, brindle and apricot, all with a black mask and ears. Their coat is short to medium in length with very little white. Sizes range from 28" to 34" tall at the withers, with huge heads, large bone, and wide chests. Weight is normally 150-170 for females, 180 and up for males. A Mastiff should posess a calm, self assured temperament and be devoted to its family and friends. They should not be aggressive towards humans and other animals, including other dogs. Mastiffs should be steady, gentle, calm, eager for affection, good with children,self assured and used primarily as a family companion.
~Are all Mastiffs the same? No. Like humans, Mastiffs are individuals. Each has its own genetic and environmental history that affect its attitude, health, temperament and responses to stimuli.
There are many different Mastiff breed types. The term "Mastiff" normally refers to English Mastiffs. This breed is known as a gentle giant, and is commonly considered by far the gentlest, most even tempered of all Mastiff breeds. They are know for their innate gentleness, and are wonderful family companions, without the dominance or aggression problems seen in several other Mastiff breeds. It is always important to get a Mastiff puppy from gentle, friendly parents. Shy, aggressive dogs often pass these traits on to their offspring.
Are Mastiffs:
~Agressive? The typical Mastiff's temperament, by nature, is one of gentle demeanor. However, as with any breed, there are exceptions to the rule. It is always important to socialize your puppy and make sure you buy a pup out of friendly, outgoing parents. If you should happen to notice aggression tendancies in your Mastiff, contact your vet, your breeder or a trainer immediately.
~Easy to train? Yes and no. Mastiffs are smart, and live to please. However, they go through phases where they can be stubborn.
Keep training sessions short (5-10 minutes) and frequent (a couple times per day). In addition to their stubbornness, Mastiffs have very sensitive feelings, and if they are frightened, hurt or confused, they cannot be budged. Make training a game. Use a happy, excited voice. You have to be consistent and firm to be effective, but be kind.
~Good guard dogs? Mastiffs are excellent watch dogs, but not so great guard dogs. They go to the door and bark, their hackles raised, and look formidable, but that's normally the extent of it. However, they should protect their family if the need arises. Mastiffs need to be inside, as an active part of the family, more than many other breeds. They are NOT a breed that can be kept in a pen or chained to a doghouse in the backyard.
~What are Mastiffs like in the house? Clean, quiet and undemanding. Heaven to a Mastiff is a rug beside his owner's chair. Mastiffs are naturally clean (except for slobber), and quick to housebreak.
~Do Mastiffs...
~Bark much? Puppies are puppies, in any breed. Adults aren't normally barkers, except when you first arrive home, or they hear a sound they want you to investigate, like the doorbell.
~ Bite? Any dog that is frightened, threatened or injured may bite. Mastiffs shouldn't be aggressive, but it is always necessary to socialize young Mastiffs, and remember to NEVER let a puppy bite, even while playing.
~Dig? A bored Mastiff will dig. If you're wanting a hole dug for a new pool, grab a bunch of Mastiffs and leave them with no entertainment in your backyard. They'll get the job done. Seriously, we have 8, and none of them are diggers. But some are.
~Need a lot of excercise? About as much as you do.
~Pass gas? HAHA Yes. Supposedly, once they are on a good quality food, they shouldn't have gas. However, every Mastiff I've ever known has had gas. 2 of mine will clear a room in a matter of seconds. Whew!
~Roam? Not normally, though no dog should be left outside alone without being properly confined.
~Shed? Yes. Like other dogs, Mastiffs tend to shed out twice a year, but they will shed some pretty much year-round. Regular brushing is recommended. We use (and LOVE) the Furminator brush. Well worth the money!
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