Mastiff Dog vs Pitbull: Breeds Compared for Size, Health, and Cost

If you're considering bringing home a new furry friend, you're likely torn between two popular breeds: the Mastiff and the Pitbull. Both are large, powerful dogs with unique characteristics that set them apart from one another.

In terms of size, Mastiffs are generally the larger of the two breeds, with some males weighing up to 230 pounds and standing as tall as 30 inches at the shoulder.

Pitbulls, on the other hand, are a bit smaller, with males weighing around 80-100 pounds and standing about 17-20 inches tall.

Both breeds are prone to certain health issues, with Mastiffs being more susceptible to hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia, while Pitbulls are more prone to heart problems and allergies.

When it comes to cost, Mastiffs can be quite expensive to care for, with annual costs ranging from $1,500 to $2,000 due to their large size and potential health issues.

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The temperament and training of a mastiff dog versus a pitbull are two distinct aspects that set these breeds apart. Both breeds are loyal and loving, but they have different energy levels and social needs.

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Pitbulls are highly intelligent and perceptive, capable of discerning their owner's thoughts and mood. They thrive on attention and companionship, but can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods.

Mastiffs, on the other hand, are also intelligent, but tend to be more laid-back and gentle. They are naturally protective of their family, but can be wary of strangers.

Here are some key differences in training and socialization needs:

Overall, both breeds require patient and consistent training, but with different approaches to suit their unique temperaments and needs.

Pitbull Mastiff pups are among the fastest-growing dogs out there. They can weigh as much as 30 pounds by 3 months, 70 pounds by 6 months, 80 pounds by 9 months, and well over 100 by 12 months.

You should be prepared to handle a big dog within no time. This means having a spacious home and a strong, sturdy dog crate to accommodate their rapid growth.

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Pups that come from breeders are typically expensive but will have proof of health, which comes in the form of the health certificates of both parents. A reputable breeder will allow you to see the pup's mother and even father if they are around.

Before buying a pup, always insist on seeing the parents' health certificates, as that is one way of vetting the authenticity of a breeder. They should also allow you to view the pup together with the mother.

It's essential to ask your vet for recommendations on good breeders, as they more than likely know reputable breeders and those to avoid.

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Pitbull Mastiff mixes are not aggressive, ferocious monsters, but rather loving and loyal companions.

Their intelligence and watchfulness make them highly perceptive animals, capable of discerning your thoughts and mood simply by looking at you.

Pit Mastiffs are incredibly energetic, especially if they take after their Pitbull Terrier parent, making them perfect for families or people who love the outdoors.

They crave constant companionship and do not do well when left alone for extended periods, suffering from separation anxiety.

The Italian Mastiff, also known as the Cane Corso, is recognized for its confident and reserved demeanor, carrying itself with assurance and poise.

Their protective nature makes them loyal to their families, but with early socialization, they can be gentle with family members and accepting of strangers who pose no threat.

Pit Bulls, on the other hand, are known for being gentle, fun-loving, and incredibly patient, with a happy nature that's hard to resist.

However, they can also be strong-willed and stubborn, requiring an owner who can confidently assert their authority.

Here's a comparison of the temperament traits of Pitbull Mastiff mixes and Italian Mastiffs:

Ultimately, both breeds require consistent training and a loving yet structured environment to thrive, forming a strong and respectful bond between dog and human companions.

Pitbull Mastiffs are bold, courageous, and purpose-driven, meaning they will take charge if you don't. They are intelligent and perceptive animals, capable of discerning your thoughts and mood simply by looking at you.

To establish dominance and get them to trust you, you must exude confidence and be a firm trainer. They are strong-willed and will do whatever they want if you don't establish leadership.

Their strong-willed nature can make them stubborn, which means you must exercise patience when dealing with them. They respond well to positive reinforcement and gentle training, but can be difficult to train due to their dominant personality.

To get the best results, use positive reinforcement techniques such as rewarding them for good behavior, rather than negative techniques like coercion and aggression. They are eager to please their owners or trainers, so constant praise and reward can go a long way in training them.

Mastiff Pitbull mixes can be healthier than their parents, but they might be predisposed to conditions like hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, and kidney problems.

Regular vet appointments are a must to ensure your pooch stays in good condition. Schedule those visits to catch any potential issues early.

The Pitbull is generally the healthier breed, with a longer lifespan due to its smaller size. This is a significant advantage for Pitbull owners.

The Mastiff, on the other hand, is more likely to suffer from weight-related problems, including obesity, which can lead to other health concerns. Be mindful of your Mastiff's diet and exercise routine.

Both breeds can be prone to hip dysplasia, but the Mastiff is also more likely to suffer from elbow dysplasia and various eye and cardiac conditions. Keep an eye out for these potential issues.

As a responsible dog owner, it's essential to consider the unique needs of each breed, including their physical build, behavior traits, and genetic predispositions. Research and understand these needs before bringing a new furry friend home.

A big part of owning a mastiff dog or a pitbull is figuring out what to feed them. Both breeds are big eaters and need a diet rich in protein to stay healthy.

Mastiff dogs, in particular, need a lot of food due to their massive size. They require around 8 cups of high-calorie dog food per day, which can be a significant expense. Feeding them a kibble specifically designed for large or giant breeds is essential to support their growth and health.

The ideal dog food for a pitbull or a pitbull mastiff mix should contain high-quality protein, healthy carbohydrates, fiber, omega fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. A premium large breed formula with real meat as the primary ingredient is a great option.

Here are some key nutrients to look for in a dog food for a pitbull mastiff mix:

Some good dog food options for a pitbull mastiff mix include:

It's essential to feed your dog the best food you can afford and to monitor their calorie intake to prevent obesity. Dividing their meals into two to three meals throughout the day can also help reduce the risk of bloat.

Exercise and grooming are two essential aspects of caring for a mastiff or pitbull. Both breeds require regular exercise to stay healthy and happy, but the amount and intensity of exercise needed varies between the two. A Pitbull needs at least 60 minutes of intense exercise daily, while a Mastiff is happy with a casual 45-minute stroll.

Exercise should also include mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. A Pitbull requires a lot of mental stimulation, while a Mastiff is content with simply playing along with a family game or basking in the sun. Regular exercise can help prevent obesity and ensure your dog stays well-behaved and joyful.

When it comes to grooming, both breeds have relatively short coats that require minimal effort. However, Pitbulls need to be brushed more frequently, especially during shedding season, while Mastiffs require longer brushing sessions due to their larger size. Regular ear cleaning, nail trimming, and dental care are essential for both breeds to prevent hygiene-related issues.

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Here are some recommended exercise and grooming products for your Mastiff or Pitbull:

Remember, grooming and exercise needs may vary depending on the individual dog and their breed mix. Always consult with a veterinarian for personalized advice on caring for your Mastiff or Pitbull.

Exercise is crucial for a Pitbull Mastiff's overall health and happiness. They need regular physical activity to burn off energy and prevent destructive behaviors.

A Pitbull Mastiff's exercise requirements vary depending on which parent breed they take after. If they take after the American Pitbull, they'll need lots of exercise, such as long walks or runs, to keep them from developing pent-up energy.

If your Pitbull Mastiff takes after the Mastiff parent, a short walk should suffice. Mastiffs are generally lazy dogs and don't require as much exercise.

To keep your Pitbull Mastiff active and happy, aim for at least 45 minutes to 60 minutes of exercise per day. This can include playing with durable toys like the West Paw Zogoflex Zisc Tough Flying Disc Dog Play Toy, the Monster K9 Indestructible Dog Ball, or the Mammoth TireBiter Chew Toy with Rope.

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The type of exercise your Pitbull Mastiff needs also depends on their individual personality. If they're a high-energy dog, they'll need intense and varying exercise to keep their body and mind stimulated.

Here are some exercise ideas for your Pitbull Mastiff:

Remember, every dog is different, so it's essential to observe your Pitbull Mastiff's behavior and adjust their exercise routine accordingly.

Grooming your Pitbull Mastiff or similar crossbreed is a relatively low-maintenance task, thanks to their short coats. They don't require extensive grooming, but occasional brushing and bathing can keep them clean and healthy.

You'll want to brush their coat at least two to three times a week, more often during shedding season. This will help reduce shedding and promote coat health.

Inspecting their face wrinkles regularly is crucial to prevent dirt and pathogens from accumulating. You'll also need to clean their ears, brush their teeth, and clip their nails regularly.

Bathing your Pitbull Mastiff can be a challenge due to their massive size, but it's only necessary when they get filthy. You can either bathe them yourself or take them to a groomer.

Their ears are prone to infections due to moisture accumulation, so you'll need to check and wipe them once a week. Be careful when cutting their nails, as they have sensitive nerves at the ends.

Both breeds benefit from regular brushing to reduce shedding and promote coat health. Routine ear cleaning, nail trimming, and dental care are essential to prevent common hygiene-related issues.

You'll want to wash your Pitbull Mastiff every 8 to 12 weeks or so, using a gentle and natural doggy shampoo. This will keep them smelling their best.

Daily brushing with a good dog brush can help limit shedding and keep their fur looking fabulous.

The Mastiff can stand up to 10 inches taller than the Pitbull, and at his heaviest, he can weigh 3 ½ times heavier.

Both breeds have a square and stocky shape, with long tails and a deep chest. They also share a similar coat type, although the Mastiff's coat is longer and denser.

The Pitbull comes in a wide variety of colors, including red or amber, blue, white, or merle, while the Mastiff has a more limited color palette with apricot, fawn, and brindle options.

Italian Mastiffs can grow up to 25-27.5 inches tall for males and 23.5-26 inches for females. Their weight can range from 110-150 pounds.

Pitbulls, on the other hand, are much smaller, typically standing between 18-21 inches tall for males and 17-20 inches for females.

Here's a comparison of the two breeds:

The Italian Mastiff and the Pitbull are two breeds that couldn't be more different in terms of size. The Mastiff can stand up to 10 inches taller and weigh 3 ½ times heavier than the Pitbull.

Their physical characteristics are also quite distinct, with the Mastiff having large triangular drop-down ears and the Pitbull having rose-shaped ears. The Mastiff's coat is longer and denser, while the Pitbull's coat is single-layered.

Both breeds have a square and stocky shape, with long tails and a deep chest. However, the Mastiff sheds more in the fall and spring, while the Pitbull sheds moderately throughout the year.

Here's a comparison of their coat colors:

The Pitbull's coat colors are incredibly diverse, while the Mastiff's coat colors are more limited.

The Italian Mastiff, also known as the Cane Corso, has its roots entrenched in ancient Roman history. These powerful dogs served as war dogs and were esteemed for their strength and agility.

Its lineage connects to the Neapolitan Mastiff, but it's distinguished by its more athletic frame. The Cane Corso was historically utilized for farming, hunting large game, and estate guarding.

The breed's presence remained strong in Italy over the centuries, and it has gained international recognition in more recent times.

Italian Mastiffs and Pitbulls can make wonderful family pets, but they have different needs and characteristics to consider.

Both breeds are loyal and loving, but Italian Mastiffs are more reserved and require early socialization to become comfortable around children and other pets.

Pitbulls, on the other hand, are highly socialized and can adapt to various living situations, but they do require attention and may experience separation anxiety if left alone for long periods.

Italian Mastiffs are better suited for families with larger living spaces due to their size and exercise needs, while Pitbulls can thrive in smaller spaces with regular exercise and attention.

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Bullmastiffs are generally larger than Pit Bulls, with males reaching 25-27 inches in height and weighing between 110-130lbs, while Pit Bulls typically reach 19 inches in height and weigh between 50-80lbs.

Their size difference is just one factor to consider when thinking about family and compatibility. Bullmastiffs are also more independent thinkers, requiring firm consistency to keep them on track, whereas Pit Bulls are eager to learn and thrive on positive reinforcement.

Socialization is crucial for both breeds, especially Bullmastiffs who tend to want to jump up on people due to their size, posing a safety risk. Pit Bulls, on the other hand, may not be tolerant of other animals, so early socialization can help prevent issues.

In terms of exercise, Bullmastiffs require less than Pit Bulls, with 30-45 minutes of walking a day being sufficient, whereas Pit Bulls need two hours of exercise daily. This is important to consider when thinking about your family's lifestyle and activity level.

Italian Mastiffs, also known as Cane Corso dogs, are loyal dogs that often fit well within a family dynamic, especially when properly socialized from a young age.

They have a strong presence and protective instincts, making them take their roles as family guardians seriously.

Pitbulls, on the other hand, are known for their loving nature and popularity as family pets.

Their highly socialized nature allows them to adapt to various living situations, but they do require attention and may experience separation anxiety if left alone for long periods.

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Italian Mastiffs are more suitable for families with larger living spaces due to their size and exercise needs.

Pitbulls, however, can thrive in a variety of living situations as long as they receive the attention they need.

Early socialization is key to helping both breeds become comfortable around children and other pets.

Pricing is a significant factor for many families, and not just because of his initial puppy price.

The Mastiff is a giant dog breed, which means he requires more food, clothing, equipment, and medical care than the Pitbull. His food bill alone can be substantial.

You need to be sure you can take care of his expenses, as he is much more expensive than the Pitbull.

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