Mastiff
Other names: English Mastiff, Old English Mastiff

The Mastiff is the ideal companion for lovers of XXL-sized dogs. To wit, weighing close to 220 pounds, this dog’s abnormal size is as overwhelming as the joy one discovers getting to know him. This dog is well-rounded, gentle, has a heart of gold- in direct proportion to his size! He can sometimes prove to be somewhat phlegmatic, but is nevertheless a big softie who cannot stand to be away from his human family.
Key facts about the Mastiff
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Origins and history
In 55 BC, when Caesar’s legions invaded the British isles, they came face to face with two types of dogs: the first was stocky, with a disproportionately big head, and a short yet powerful jaw- of which the poor legionnaires’ calves soon became thoroughly convinced. This dog was highly likely the Bulldog’s ancestor, and had some of the modern-day Bullmastiff in him. The second dog was of exceptional dimensions, more of a lion than a dog in fact! He was the direct descendant of the assyro-babylonian mastiffs, imported to England by the Phoenicians some 500 years prior to the Roman invasion. He made the Epirus Molossians- whom the Romans considered to be excellent warriors- look like helpless little companion pups. As a result, upon conquering Britain, the Romans brought back these impressive English dogs with them, dubbed them ‘Pugnaces Britanniae’ (or ‘British Pugnaces’), and used them in arena fights with the most ferocious of animals. The Mastiff is a direct descendant of the latter dogs.
Physical characteristics of the Mastiff
Adult size
Female : Between 26 and 30 in
Male : Between 30 and 33 in
Weight
Female : Between 143 and 176 lb
Male : Between 187 and 220 lb
Coat colour
The coat can be fawn, apricot-fawn or brindle-fawn. The muzzle, ears, and nose are black. The dominating presence of white on the body, chest or paws is not admissible by official standards.
Type of coat
The coat is short.
The coat is spread out flatly throughout the body. Please note that it is thicker around the shoulders, the neck, and the back of the dog.
Eye colour
The eyes are hazel, as dark as possible.
Description
Of massive size, the Mastiff has a particularly respect-inducing physical appearance. The head, looked at from any angle, appears rather square. The skull is wide in between the ears, flat, but wrinkled when the dog is alert. The muzzle is short, and wide underneath the eyes: it must appear clearly delineated, and be significantly deep between the tip of the nose, and the lower extremity of the mandible. The stop is pronounced, but not sharp. The eyes are small. The ears are small, fine, hung quite high, and close to the cheeks. The body is massive, robust, and symmetrical. The tail, hanging low when the dog is at rest, curves slightly upwards when he is animated.
Good to know
This breed has been at the brink of extinction more than once already, due to some excesses in the breeding of certain lineages- most notably, inbreeding. This has unfortunately led to certain genetic weaknesses that contemporary dog-breeding is trying to amend.
By the way, contrary to popular belief, the Mastiff is not subject to the law introduced in January 1999 regarding so-called dangerous dogs. In fact, it is not a part of dogs in these categories, neither first nor second.
Temperament
Behaviour of the Mastiff
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Mastiff to adopt

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Compatibility
Price
The price of a Mastiff varies depending on its origin, its age, and its gender. You have to estimate an average of between £700 and £1120 for a dog that is part of the Kennel Club.
Regarding the monthly budget, it is quite significant since you must set aside around £80 per month to be able to cater to this giant’s needs.
Grooming
The maintenance of this massive dog is not as complicated as it may initially seem. His short coat needs only a few regular brushes, ideally once a week. Actually, his propensity towards being patted make these pampering sessions very easy and pleasant.
His eyes and ears will have to be checked and cleaned scrupulously, with the help of physiological lotions or specialised products (avoid cotton swabs for the ears, a sterile compress is better suited). Moreover, his nails will have to be clipped approximately once a month.
Shedding
This giant’s hair loss is moderate but existing, especially during moulting seasons such as spring and autumn. During these periods, he will require a daily brush.
Nutrition of the Mastiff
The nutritional regimen of the English Mastiff will depend on his constitution, age, and the shape he is in.
Be wary of gastric torsions, which is a commonplace problem for all big breeds. He needs to take it easy both before and after every meal.
Commercially-available dog food does offer dry nutrition formulated specifically for the big dog, but nothing can replace homemade meals, which this big glutton will enormously appreciate.
Veterinary supervision is advised during the entire, precarious stage of the dog’s growth. The vet will also be able to approve the recipes for homemade meals.
On account of his big size, it is recommended that the daily rations of food be split into two meals: a light one in the morning, and a more substantial one in the evening, to encourage a better digestion.
Last but not least, elevated bowls will need to be provided to save this giant from having to bend over too low when eating.
Health of the Mastiff
Life expectancy
The life expectancy is estimated at 11 years.
Strong / robust
This large molossian is, by all accounts, a robust dog, but does experience some health issues due to its sizeable constitution.
Withstand heat
In times of significant heat, this massive dog will need to have constant access to fresh water and a cool spot in the shade, or indoors, to take breaks.
Withstand cold
Even if his coat is thicker in some parts of his body, he is not suited for extremely cold temperatures. He won’t appreciate much having to sleep outside in the winter.
Tendency to put on weight
With a well-adjusted diet and daily walks, this dog will be able to stay in shape and keep his weight in check.
Common illnesses
- Orthopedic pathologies (due to rapid growth)
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Cruciate ligament injuries
- Gastric Torsion Syndrome
- Osteosarcoma (bone cancer)
- Canine Multifocal Retinopathy (ocular disease)
- Cystinuria (kidney malfunction)
- Cardiomyopathy
- Entropion
- Hyperthyroidism