The world of rare mastiff dog breeds is a fascinating one, full of unique and intriguing characteristics. The English Mastiff, for example, is one of the largest breeds in the world, with males weighing up to 230 pounds.
These gentle giants are known for their calm and gentle nature, making them a great companion for families. They are also relatively low-maintenance, requiring only occasional grooming and regular exercise.
One of the most distinctive features of the Bullmastiff is its short, easy-to-maintain coat, which comes in a variety of colors including red, fawn, and brindle. This breed is also known for its loyalty and protective instincts, making it a great watchdog.
The Tibetan Mastiff, on the other hand, is a breed that's steeped in history and tradition, with a long history of guarding temples and monasteries in the Himalayas.
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Rare Mastiff Breeds
The Tibetan Mastiff is a huge breed known for its noble bearing and impressive double coat. Its aloof nature makes it an excellent guardian breed.
If you're looking for a breed that's independent and not too fond of obedience training, the Tibetan Mastiff is a great choice.
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Tibetan Mastiff
The Tibetan Mastiff is a rare and majestic breed originating from the snowy landscapes of Tibet. They're massive in size, with a noble bearing that's hard to ignore.
Their impressive double coat is a standout feature, but it can also make them uncomfortable in warmer climates, especially during the hotter parts of the day. They thrive in cooler climates and love to play in the snow.
Tibetan Mastiffs are known for their independent nature, which makes them excellent guardian breeds, but also reluctant participants in organized activities like obedience. They're highly intelligent and loyal, but can be aloof at times.
Here are some key facts about the Tibetan Mastiff breed:
Their high energy levels require a lot of stimulation, or that excess energy can soon turn to mischief. They're best suited for active families who can provide them with plenty of exercise and attention.
Catalburun
The Catalburun is a very rare breed with only a few hundred known to exist worldwide.
They originate from Turkey and are skilled hunters with a keen sense of smell.
Their short coat can come in a variety of colours, but they're not as well-known for their looks as for their impressive hunting abilities.
The Catalburun is believed to share ancestry with the Spanish Pachón Navarro, with a shared history dating back to the 8th Century.
Their independent streak means they require consistent training and early socialization to become well-behaved companions.
They make excellent watchdogs due to their alert and curious nature.
Their strong hunting instinct remains strong even with good training, making them a challenge to own for inexperienced dog owners.
Neapolitan
The Neapolitan Mastiff is a breed that's steeped in history, having been bred to fight alongside the Romans.
Historically, they were bred to run under enemy horses and disembowel them, which is a pretty intense job.
They almost became extinct by the end of WWII, but an Italian painter saved the breed by setting up a kennel and breeding them with English Mastiffs.
This diversification of the bloodline helped the breed evolve and thrive.
One notable Neapolitan Mastiff even appeared in the Harry Potter movies as Hagrid's dog, Fang.
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Other Large Breeds
The English Mastiff is a rare breed, but it's not the only one. They can weigh up to 230 pounds and stand over 30 inches tall.
Their massive size requires a lot of space, so owners need to have a large yard to accommodate them. This breed is also prone to health issues like hip dysplasia and bloat, which can be costly to treat.
The Bullmastiff is another rare breed that's known for its loyalty and protective nature. They were originally bred to guard estates and can weigh up to 130 pounds.
Their short coats require minimal grooming, but their large size means they need regular exercise to stay healthy. This breed is also prone to health issues like hip dysplasia and heart problems.
The Dogue de Bordeaux is a rare breed that's known for its distinctive fawn coat. They can weigh up to 110 pounds and stand over 27 inches tall.
Their short coats require minimal grooming, but their large size means they need regular exercise to stay healthy.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most expensive mastiff ever sold?
The most expensive mastiff ever sold is a red Tibetan Mastiff named Big Splash, which was sold for a record-breaking $1.5 million. This rare pup holds the Guinness World Record for the most expensive dog ever sold.
What is the biggest type of mastiff?
The English Mastiff is the largest type of mastiff, standing at 35 inches tall and weighing up to 230 lbs. This gentle giant was originally bred as a war dog but now loves to lounge on the sofa with its owners.
What is the rarest color of English mastiffs?
The rarest color of English Mastiffs is black, although its genetic status is unclear due to its extreme rarity.
Sources
- American Kennel Club (akc.org)
- 15 of The UK's Rarest Dog Breeds That Make Great Pets (countryliving.com)
- 30 Of The Rarest Dog Breeds In The World (animalcorner.org)
- These 20 Rare Dog Breeds Are So Rare, You've Probably ... (lordofthepets.com)
- Catalburun (racinevet.com)
- Neapolitan Mastiff (akc.org)
- most expensive dog ever sold (cnbc.com)
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