Everything You Need to Know About Mastiffs

Mastiffs are massive dogs, with some breeds weighing up to 230 pounds.

Their large size requires a lot of space to move around, so they need a big yard or a spacious living area.

Mastiffs are known for their short coats, which come in a variety of colors including fawn, apricot, and black.

Their coats are easy to maintain, requiring only occasional brushing.

Mastiffs are often referred to as gentle giants due to their calm and even-tempered nature.

They are natural protectors and can be wary of strangers, but with proper socialization, they can be friendly and outgoing.

The Mastiff is a breed with a rich history that spans thousands of years. Historical and archaeological evidence suggests that Mastiffs have long been distinct from similarly large livestock guardian dogs.

The Fédération Cynologique Internationale and some kennel clubs group Mastiffs together with livestock guardian dogs as molossoid dogs. Some modern breeds, such as the Pyrenean Mastiff and the Spanish Mastiff, have the word "mastiff" in their name, but are not considered true Mastiffs.

Recommended read: Anatolian Shepherd Livestock Guardian Dog

Mastiffs have been referred to as bandogs or bandogges in older English sources, although the term technically meant a dog tethered by a chain. The terms "mastiff" and "bandog" were often used interchangeably.

One famous "bandog" program in England led to the establishment of a recognized "bandog" breed known today as the Bull Mastiff. This breed was likely influenced by the use of Mastiffs as fighting dogs and protectors of the home.

The Mastiff has a long history in England, where it was used as a fighting dog, protector of the home, and for use against other animals and as a weapon in war. The breed was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1948.

Mastiffs are a type of dog that originated in ancient times, with some breeds dating back as far as 700 B.C. The Neapolitan Mastiff, for example, is an ancient breed that was used as a war dog and protector of the house.

These dogs are known for their loyalty and protective nature, making them excellent guard dogs. They can be reserved or wary around strangers, but are devoted to their family.

Mastiffs come in a variety of sizes, with some breeds weighing as much as 150 pounds. The Neapolitan Mastiff, for instance, typically weighs between 150 pounds and has a height of 26-31 inches.

Here's a list of some Mastiff breeds mentioned in the article:

The Mastiff is a breed that's steeped in history, with roots dating back to ancient times. They're a direct descendant of the Molosser dog breed, and were even used to face gladiators and lions in the past.

These gentle giants can weigh as much as 230 pounds and stand at a minimum height of 30 inches at the shoulder. That's a lot of dog, but don't worry, they're not as intimidating as you might think.

In fact, Mastiffs are known for being patient and low-key, making them a great choice for families with young children. They're also relatively low-maintenance pets, requiring only daily walks of a mile or two to stay healthy.

Here are some key facts about the Mastiff breed:

One thing to keep in mind is that Mastiffs do need regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling of their coats. They also drool a lot, so be prepared for that.

The Tibetan Mastiff is a majestic breed that originated in the Himalayan region of Tibet. They're believed to be the ancestors of all other mastiffs.

This massive but mellow pooch has an impressive double coat that's perfect for keeping warm in frigid alpine conditions. Their coat only needs weekly brushing through most of the year.

Tibetan Mastiffs are strong-willed, independent, and very protective. They can be loyal to family but aloof with strangers.

Here are some key facts about the Tibetan Mastiff breed:

There are many breeds of dogs that have been developed for specific purposes. Some breeds, like the Alano Español, were originally bred for war and bull-baiting.

The Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog is a guard dog from the United States. Its country of origin is the United States. The Boerboel, also known as the South African Mastiff, is a guard dog from South Africa.

The Boxer was bred for big-game hunting in Germany. The Broholmer, or Danish Mastiff, is a guard dog from Denmark. The Bulldog was originally bred for bull-baiting in England.

The Bullmastiff, also known as the Gamekeeper's Night Dog, is a guard dog from England. The Bully Kutta is a breed from India and Pakistan that was originally used for dog fighting.

Here is a list of some of the breeds mentioned:

The Cane Corso is a guard dog and catch dog from Italy. The Cão Fila de São Miguel is a cattle-herding dog and catch dog from Portugal. The Chongqing dog is a guard dog from China.

The Continental Bulldog is a companion dog from Switzerland. The Dogo Argentino is a guard dog, big-game hunting dog, and dog fighting dog from Argentina. The Dogo Guatemalteco is a guard dog and was originally used for bull-baiting in Guatemala.

The Dogue Brasileiro is a guard dog from Brazil. The Dogue de Bordeaux is a guard dog from France. The English Mastiff is a guard dog from England.

The Fila Brasileiro is a guard dog from Brazil. The French Bulldog is a lap dog from France. The Great Dane is a big-game hunting dog from Germany.

The Kurdish Mastiff is a guard dog from Iraq. The Neapolitan Mastiff is a guard dog from Italy. The Olde English Bulldogge is a modern-day re-creation of the extinct Old English Bulldog from the United States.

The Perro de Presa Canario is a guard dog and catch dog from the Canary Islands. The Perro de Presa Mallorquin is a breed from Spain that was originally used for bull-baiting. The Rottweiler is a guard dog from Germany.

The Serrano Bulldog is a herding dog and butcher's dog from Brazil. The Tosa is a dog fighting dog from Japan.

Additional reading: Dog Breeds French Bordeaux

The Neapolitan Mastiff is a gentle giant, known for their calm nature and loyalty to their family. They're not high-maintenance when it comes to grooming, but they do require regular attention to their facial folds to prevent skin issues.

These dogs are built for comfort, not agility, so a big apartment with plenty of space to nap is a must. They're happy with a casual daily stroll, but they can easily overheat in hot weather.

The Neapolitan Mastiff is a short-coated breed, but their heavy build means they need to be kept cool in warm temperatures. With the right care, they can thrive in a variety of living situations.

Here are some key facts about the Neapolitan Mastiff:

If you're considering bringing a Neapolitan Mastiff into your family, be prepared for a lifelong commitment. With proper care and attention, they can make loyal and loving companions.

The Pyrenean Mastiff is a rare Spanish mountain dog with a rich history dating back 3,000 years. It's closely related to the Spanish Mastiff and the Great Pyrenees.

Worth a look: Spanish Mastiff

This breed was originally used as a livestock guardian and still retains its independent personality. It's known for being gentle, kind, and loving, especially with young children and other dogs.

However, Pyrenean Mastiffs can be protective of their work and may require an assertive and experienced owner. They need socialization from puppyhood to encourage confidence, but may always be suspicious of strangers.

In terms of size, Pyrenean Mastiffs can reach heights of 30-31 inches and weigh between 120-190 pounds. Their life expectancy is around 10-12 years.

Here are some key facts about the Pyrenean Mastiff breed:

The Canarian Mastiff Dog, also known as the Perro de Presa Canario, is a Molosser-type dog originating from the Canary Islands of Spain.

These dogs are powerful and agile, making them a force to be reckoned with. They were bred to protect livestock and guard homes, so you can bet they're fiercely loyal.

Their love for their families is unmatched, and they'll go to great lengths to defend them from harm. If you're looking for a loyal companion, the Canarian Mastiff Dog might be the perfect fit.

The French Mastiff, also known as the Dogue de Bordeaux, is a breed that gets noticed. They're large in stature, with an undershot jaw and the largest head in all of caninedom.

They tend to drool excessively, so be prepared to spend some time wiping up slobber. This breed's wrinkles also require regular cleaning and drying to prevent skin issues.

Despite their size, French Mastiffs are surprisingly zippy, making them a joy to take on walks. However, finding the right leash is essential to enjoy the great outdoors together.

Here are some key facts about the French Mastiff breed: