Mastiff Dog Breed Information

Personality

Friendly, relaxed, laid-back, and unexpectedly mild, the Mastiff often gets a negative impression because of its large stature. These dogs behave well indoors but require enough space to accommodate their big frames. They are devoted and, although they may not be overly cuddly, they express their loyalty to their families. They tend to get along well with older kids.

History

The Mastiff is an ancient dog breed with a history that stretches back thousands of years. The Romans trained them as battle dogs and gladiators, even equipping them with spiked armor. During the Medieval period, these dogs served as protectors and hunting companions. It is said that Kubla Khan owned 5,000 Mastiffs for his hunting expeditions. Unfortunately, these dogs were also exploited for cruel activities like dog fighting, bull baiting, and bear baiting, which were outlawed in England in 1835. The modern Mastiff can trace its lineage back to a notable dog owned by Sir Peers Legh. After being injured at the Battle of Agincourt in 1415, a Mastiff is believed to have guarded him throughout the fight. This loyal dog returned home with Sir Legh and became the ancestor of the Lyme Hall Mastiffs. There are indications that Mastiffs may have traveled to America on the Mayflower, but they likely didn’t reach the country until the late 1800s. The breed faced a severe decline in England during World War II, but by then, enough had been brought to America to ensure its survival, leading to a rise in its popularity.

Ideal Owner

The perfect owner for this breed should be comfortable with a dog that can weigh as much as 230 pounds, expect plenty of drool, and face a food cost that might exceed their own grocery bills. It’s best if the owner has experience with large dogs and is ready to invest many years in training this breed, which takes time to grow up. They tend to be unfriendly towards strangers and other dogs but are very loyal to their families. Having small kids around might not be the best choice due to the dog's large size.

Exercise Needs

Mastiffs may seem fierce, but they tend to be quite laid-back. To stay happy, they require around an hour of daily walks on a leash and enjoy a cozy nap in a sunny place. It's important not to overdo their exercise when they are young, as too much activity can lead to bone issues that worsen with muscle and joint stress in a developing dog.

Space Requirements

These dogs are really big and require a spacious house and a big yard. Even though it's best to keep them on a leash during walks, they are very protective of their families and their space. It's crucial to let delivery workers know about them ahead of time before they arrive at your home.

Training

You might notice a Mastiff looking at you with a skeptical glance during training sessions. These dogs often aren’t very eager to learn. It’s important to start socializing them early and to teach them how to walk with a leash or harness. While it’s crucial for them to come when called, due to their large size, they should mainly exercise on a leash to keep other dogs and people safe.

Grooming

Mastiffs are low-maintenance when it comes to grooming. Their fur is short and rough, especially around the neck, and doesn’t need much care. Brushing them once a week should be enough, but it might require some hard work due to their large size!

Suitability for Family Life

These giant dogs are as gentle as teddy bears with their families, but their large size can be a challenge for households with young kids.

Did You know?

The Mastiff is among the oldest and most cherished dog breeds. In ancient times, the Romans employed them in battles, and these dogs even donned protective gear and spikes.