History
Dogs of the Mastiff type have existed in England since Roman times, they were used as dogs of war, for gladiatorial contests in Roman arenas, for bear baiting and as draft animals. Their main use was as guardians of people and property. Today Mastiffs are bred almost exclusively as a superb companion animal and they are not generally regarded as a working breed. Today they compete in obedience work, and as therapy pets.
Description
The heaviest breed of dogs in the world, very strong with males usually exceeding 100kg. Deep chested with immense heads.
Grooming and Physical Needs
- Grooming Needs: A light brush will help remove excess hair.
- Coat Type: The Mastiff's straight, coarse coat is moderately short. Coat colors include fawn, apricot and brindle.
- Moulting: Mastiffs do moult and due to their size shed quite a bit of hair.
- Exercise Needs: A gentle walk is adequate but do not overdo it for the first 9 months.
- Average Life Span: 8 - 10 years.
Behaviour
- Family: Any size family is good, they are great with kids but as with any other dog do not leave unsupervised with children.
- Temperament: Great big softies, a true gentle giant, but capable of guarding.
- Trainability: Very trainable but needs to be done in lots of small doses, they get bored with repetitive things.
- Sociability (Other Pets): Good but for health reasons don’t let them run free with others when they are young.
- Barking: Usually to advise you of something, a very deep loud bark which is liable to put unwanted visitors off.
Talents
Capable of attracting a crowd due to their immense size.
Notes
THEY DROOL.