The Mastiff was bred to be a dog that participated in war. They are gentle giants but do not get them aroused. They make natural guard dogs and watch dogs and will protect the family with their life. Actually, just seeing a Mastiff will deter everyone but the dumbest crook. They do not need a great deal of exercise and can be lazy. Even though they do not tend to roam they should be controlled at all times in public. They can do well with other dogs if they have been extensively socialized when very young. They love older, considerate children. As a reminder, never leave a child unsupervised with a puppy or dog.

*Approximate Adult Size. The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the Mastiff is 27 to 31 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and 150 to 190 pounds.

*Special Health Considerations. Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed and the Mastiff is no exception. Be on the look out for Canine Hip Dysplasia (genetic based looseness in the hip joint that can lead to arthritis pain and lameness), eye disease and bloat (Gastric Dilation-Volvulus, the second leading killer of dogs, can kill within the hour, this space is too limited for a complete explanation but you should read up on this). Feeding more then once a day and avoiding exercise right after meals may help guard against bloat. This disease list is an informative guideline only. Other diseases may also be significant threats, please contact your veterinarian for a complete list.

She should visit the veterinarian several times in the first year for shots, boosters and check up. Then, as an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for shots and check up. As she gets older, six years and on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for check ups and shots. Remember; avoid feeding your dog sweets.

*Grooming. The Mastiff has a short haired, smooth coat. She should be brushed regularly. Brushing will help her maintain a clean and healthy coat and help you keep a closer eye on her health and strengthen your emotional bond with her.

Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease.

Her toenails may need to be examined for growth and clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet. Generally a guillotine type trimmer is the best for this chore and competent instructions to accomplish this can be found on the net.

*Life Span. The Mastiff can live between 5 and 10 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.

*History. The Mastiff comes from Great Britain where they were once used as hunting and war dogs. They have a history going back over 4000 years. They were first registered by the American Kennel Association in 1885.

Some Registries:

*Mastiff Club of America

*UKC United Kennel Club

*NKC National Kennel Club

*CKC Continental Kennel Club

*APRI Americas Pet Registry Inc.

*AKC American Kennel Club

*FCI Federation Cynologique Internationale

*NZKC New Zealand Kennel Club

*KCGB = Kennel Club of Great Britain

*ANKC = Australian National Kennel Club

*ACR = American Canine Registry

Litter Size: 2 to 5 Mastiff puppies

Category: Working

Terms To Describe: Powerful, massive, courage, good nature, dignified, docile, loyal, alert, protective,

*SPECIAL GOOD POINTS

Makes a good watch dog.

Makes a good guard dog.

Easy to groom.

Generally do not roam.

Is not a barker.

*SPECIAL BAD POINTS

Some may bite in fear.

Can be a bit slow to learn and difficult to train..

Maydrool and slobber.

Tends to snore.

*Other Names Known By: English Mastiff, Old English Mastiff, Bandog, Alaunt

*Every dog is an individual so not everything in this information may be correct for your dog. This information is meant as a good faith guideline only.