Originating in Great Britain, the Mastiff, also known as the English Mastiff, was originally used as a military and fighting dog. Today the Mastiff is known for being a loving companion and a trusted guard dog.
History: Found in Britain as early as the Roman invasion, the Noble Old English Mastiff was probably brought to that island by Phoenician traders as early as the 6th century BC. Since then, the Mastiff has been used as an arena gladiator by the Romans, in the bloody sport of bull, bear and dog combat, and as a sheep guardian, bodyguard, protector, and companion. Some historians believe that a mastiff came over to America on the Mayflower, but the first documented import occurred in the 1800’s. The breed was almost lost in Europe during World War II, but was replenished with American stock.
Appearance: The Old English Mastiff is one of the heaviest breeds. This dog is very massive, powerful and muscular. The head is heavy and square with a short muzzle. The nose displays flat nostrils. Eyes set wide apart, medium in size, never too prominent. Color of eyes brown, the darker the better, and showing no haw. Light eyes or a predatory expression is undesirable. Ears small in proportion to the skull, V-shaped, rounded at the tips. The Mastiff is a double coat breed. The outer coat is short, coarse, and straight. The under coat is dense and fits closely to the body. The color of the coat comes in apricot, fawn, or brindle.
Size: Height: dogs from 30 inches (76cm); bitches from 27 inches (69cm)
Weight: dogs about 160 pounds (72kg); bitches about 150 pounds (68kg)
Temperament: It is a self-confident, watchful, and intelligent dog. They are very careful and observant when strangers are present. They are great with children and love to please and hang out with their family. They can be aloof with strangers or fairly friendly. Do not hit a Mastiff or you are asking for it! A born guard dog, brave and loyal. It will refuse to let strangers enter the house unless its owner accepts them. If properly socialized as a puppy, it will accept other dogs.
Health: Major issues include hip dysplasia and gastric torsion. Minor problems include obesity, osteosarcoma, and cystinuria. Problems only occasionally found include cardiomyopathy, allergies, vaginal hyperplasia, cruciate ligament rupture, hypothyroidism, OCD, entropion, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), and persistent pupillary membranes (PPM).
Life expectancy: About 10-12 years.
Grooming: The Mastiff requires minimal grooming. Occasional brushing with a firm bristle brush will suffice. Bathing or dry shampooing should be done when necessary.
Puppy price: $500.00 - $1.500.00