Mastiff

Mastiff Facts

Mastiff Information

Mastiff Description:

Mastiff Care & Grooming:

Mastiff Health Problems:

Group:	Working
Size:	Large
Life Span:	8-10 years
Height:	Male: 30-33 inches
	Female: 27.5-30 inches
Weight:	Male: 150-180 lbs
	Female: 130-160 lbs

Coat :	Outercoat is rough, dense & straight. Undercoat is short & thick.
Gait :	Strong and powerful
Color(s) :	Fawn, apricot or brindle
Living Area :	Large
Hair Length:	Short
Exercise Need :	Daily walk
Recognized By :	(CKC) Canadian Kennel Club (FCI) Fï¿½dï¿½ration Cynologique Internationale (AKC) American Kennel Club (UKC) United Kennel Club (KCGB) Kennel Club of Great Britain (CKC) Canadian Kennel Club (ANKC) Australian National Kennel Council (NKC) National Kennel Club (NZKC) New Zealand Kennel Club (APRI) America Pet Registry, Inc. (ACR) American Canine Registry (DRA) Dog Registry of America
Date of Origin :	Ancient
Place of Origin :	England
Todays Use :	Guard Dog
Originally Used :	Guard Dog, Farm Dog
Other Name :	English Mastiff

The exact origin of the Mastiff is unknown. One of the oldest kinds of Mastiff is the Tibetan Mastiff which was used by Tibetan monks as guard dog centuries ago. References to this breed can also be found in Egyptian monuments as old as 3000 BC. In the olden days, the breed was largely used for guarding estates as well as cattle from animals as well as other predators. The breed was first recognized by the AKC in 1885.

The Mastiff is a large sized dog with a heavy, muscular frame. It has a heavy head which is proportionate to the body; small sized ears which are v-shape with a round tip; medium sized eyes which are dark brown in color; a large nose which is dark in color with flared nostrils; a short muzzle which is wide and well filled, giving it a strong appearance; slightly pendulous lips with teeth which meet in scissors bite. This breed has a medium length tail which is set high. The tail is strong at the base and tapers towards the end. It is carried downwards when relaxed and may be carried at the level of the back or slightly above it in a slight curl, although it is never carried above the back. It has medium length legs which are strong, straight and muscular with large feet. It has a black mask on the face with little wrinkles on the forehead. It has a double coat with a short, dense and straight outercoat which is rough in texture, and a short and thick undercoat. The color of the coat can be fawn, apricot or brindle.

Almost all kinds of Mastiff have a clam and docile demeanor. This breed is good with kids, although it will not tolerate too much rough play. It is good with other dogs as well as other pets. However, almost all Mastiffs are slightly reserved with strangers and have a strong guarding instinct, which makes this breed a very good guard dog. It does well as a watchdog too, although it does not have a tendency to bark much unless really provoked. It is an easy to train breed, although training should start at an early age when the dog is still in a manageable size. If given the right amount of exercise, it adapts well to an apartment life, although at least an average sized yard is recommended because of its huge size.

The Mastiff is an average shedder. Its short and rough coat is easy to maintain. Brushing once or twice in a week with a firm bristle brush and rubbing its body especially the wrinkles, with a damp towel once in a week are sufficient to maintain a healthy looking coat. It should be bathed only when necessary using a mild shampoo. However, extra care should be taken of its feet since it is a heavy breed and a lot of pressure is put on the feet. Regular trimming of the nails is advised to avoid injuries. Its eyes and ears should be cleaned properly to avoid any infection.

The Mastiffs are generally laidback dogs. This breed does well with moderate amount of exercise. A long walk daily takes care of most its exercise needs. Occasional jogging or running in an open but secure area helps in having a well behaved dog. However, long walks should be avoided when the dog is young as it can hamper their development. It tends to gain weight quickly so should not be overfed. Small frequent meals are recommended instead of a large meal. It is sensitive to very high or very low temperatures so should be adequately protected.

Grooming:

Shedding:

Energy Level:

Protection:

Watch Dog:

The Mastiff is prone to some health issues like hip Dysplasia, Obesity, Eye and ear infections, Bloat, PRA etc.

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Group:	Terrier
Size:	Medium
Life Span:	14-15 years
Height:	Male: 15-16 inches Female: 14-15 inches
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Color:	White with black or tan markings
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