Old English Mastiff

The Mastiff, also called the Old English Mastiff, is a giant breed that has been claimed by the English as a native breed. The Romans, when invading England, were amazed by the ability and courage of these dogs as the British fought the invaders. The dogs stood by their owners’ sides even during the worst of the fighting. Mastiffs were also used to protect land against trespassers and poachers and to control wolves.

Mastiffs slobber, drool, snore and they have no idea they are not lap dogs!

The Mastiff (Old English Mastiff) is a giant dog breed. The head is large and broad, with medium-sized eyes, a short, broad muzzle, and dropped ears. The body is longer than the dog is tall and is massive, with heavy bone. The tail reaches the hocks. The outer coat is short and coarse, while the undercoat is dense. The coat is fawn, apricot, or brindle, and the muzzle, ears, and nose are black. This breed’s short coat needs weekly brushing with a soft bristle brush.

Old English Mastiff

Mastiff puppies can be clumsy, silly, and playful. Adults are dignified but can retain a sense of playfulness. Mastiffs dont demand exercise, but they do love to play for about an hour each day. Training is very important, as this breed is powerful enough to take advantage of an unwary owner. The training should emphasize self-control for the dog and the owner’s leadership skills. Mastiffs are very slow to mature and can be puppylike for a long time. Since the breed was bred to be a watchdog, socialization is critical. This breed needs an owner who is able to assume a leadership role for the dog. In addition, potential owners should know that giant breeds have a shorter life span than other dogs.

The breed has some health concerns, including hip and elbow dysplasia, eye problems, cancer, bloat, and torsion.

The greatest weight ever recorded for a dog by the Guinness Book of Records, 343 pounds (156 kg), was for a Mastiff from England named “Aicama Zorba of La Susa.” In March 1989, when he was 7 years old, Zorba stood 35 inches (89 cm) at the shoulder and was 8.25 feet (251 cm) from the tip of his nose to the tip of his tail, about the size of a small donkey. The Guinness Book of World Records stopped accepting largest, heaviest pet records after 2000.

The Mastiff breed has a desired temperament, which is reflected in all formal standards and historical descriptions. Though calm and affectionate to its master, it is capable of protection. If an unfamiliar person approaches near the Mastiff’s perceived territory or its master, ideally, it will immediately position itself between its master and the stranger. If the approaching person is perceived as a threat, the Mastiff may take immediate defensive action. Mastiffs are normally good natured, calm, easygoing, and surprisingly gentle for their size. It is a well-mannered house pet, provided it gets daily exercise and activity. The Mastiff is typically an extremely loyal breed, exceptionally devoted to its family and good with children and small dogs.

More information and pictures of Old English Mastiff dog breed.

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