Mastiff Information

Succinct summary of a working dog with rich history, great strength, calm intelligence, imposing watchdog size and great strength of character.

The Mastiff in 90 Seconds

The Mastiff is a working dog with remarkable aptitude for being a family watchdog.

The 2000 year old Mastiff (Old English Mastiff) is a primary ancestor of most super-sized breeds.

The Mastiff is a giant heavyweight, over 30” at the shoulder. He’s the epitome of grand dignity. His short coat is easy-care but his pendulous lips and massive mouth produce excess saliva – yes, he drools. Copiously. Mastiff owners consider it a tradeoff for his rich history, great strength and calm intelligence.

The Mastiff is an imposing watchdog. Developed in England, he has great strength and even snoozing, is alert to any intrusion or challenge. Lauded by Caesar for his courage and power when fighting against his Roman legions, today the Mastiff has only to stand up and stare at an aggressor to discourage foul play.

Mastiff Coat, Color, Care:

The coat is straight, coarse and moderately short, easy to groom despite his size. Bathing is outside under a hose. Mastiffs require no special care other than cleaning the flews for hygiene and attention to his drop ears. He comes only in fawn, apricot or brindle with the characteristic dark mask, the darker the better.

Mastiff Personality:

He’s absolutely faithful and his calm docility should never be taken for disinterest. Mastiffs are watchful but should never be aggressive. The Mastiff is patient with children, small animals, and other dogs but his heavy tail can knock a toddler down.

Gressons Doin It My Waay (English Mastiff) Co-owners; Linda Greeson Rice & Maureen Cox

Exercise Requirements:

Despite their laid-back personality, Mastiffs need regular outdoor exercise to keep good muscle tone. A fenced yard will suffice but the Mastiff isn’t about to chase a ball so he will do better jogging alongside your bicycle. Stretching his strong legs every day will prevent nervous habits such as barking, chewing or licking.

Mastiff Health Concerns:

Hip dysplasia and luxating patellas (knees) are common with large, fast growing breeds (like the Mastiff ) but can be modified by diet and proper exercise. Eye problems (entropion, ectropion, PRA) and other disorders are considered hereditary and puppies should be from cleared parents. Allergies, itching, or thyroid imbalance is most often the result of environmental factors, including medication side effects. A partially home-cooked diet free of preservatives, dyes, and chemicals, supplemented with vitamins and fish oils may prevent or correct such disorders.

The Mastiff's Breed Standard is the official blueprint by which dedicated breeders select sire and dam.  It is also a detailed document by which UKC and AKC judges are required to evaluate the Mastiff breed.