When people conjure up a picture of the English Mastiff type of dog when they think about “Mastiff,”. There are in fact many types of Mastiff but the English variety is the most popular.
The English Mastiff is a breed of dog with a large body which descended from the ancient Alaunt through the Pugnaces Britanniae or the War Dog of Britannia.
In this breed is found the qualities which are generally found among most of the Molasser type breeds.
Body
English mastiffs are gifted with a large body, a broad skull which forms a head with a square appearance. In terms of mass, it is among the largest dog breeds.
Only a few breeds are taller, namely the Irish Wolfhound and the Great Dane. These two breeds, however, aren’t as robust as the Mastiff.
The American Kennel Club has set a standard height for the Mastiff.
The males stand at 30 inches at the shoulder, and the females stand at 27.5 inches minimum. Dogs of this breed can weigh no less than 150 pounds and as much as 250 pounds for males and120 to 220 pounds for females.
With their massive bodies, they are generally seen as figures of power and strength. Their bodies are formed with great deapth and breadth, especially between the forelegs.
Coat
Mastiff coats are usually short and close-lying. A few Mastiff breeds, however, do have long hair. Sometimes, these long-haired Mastiffs are called Fluffies.
The color of their coats are generally apricot to fawn, silver-fawn, fawn, or a brindle. Kennel clubs specify that for a standard Mastiff appearance, the dog’s muzzle, ears, nose, and around the eyes should always be with black shades.
Attitude
What the Mastiff is known for is the breed’s dignity and courage.
Dogs from this breed are calm and affectionate to their masters, but are very protective. The English Mastiff, in particular, is a very good guard dog.
Dogs of this breed display extreme courage and loyalty and are known to stand in the way of a perceived stranger and its master whenever it feels that the latter is threatened in any way.
Though they are not aggressive, the warning they make should be taken as a signal for the stranger to back off.
In the case that the stranger does not, these dogs are known to take defensive action – not even larger animals are known to deter it from its desire to protect its master.
It is because of this natural protectiveness that English Mastiff Dogs also have the reputation of being among the world’s top guard dog breeds.
Owner Responsibility
However, this is not a dog breed that can be tamed by just about anyone. First-time dog owners should reconsider their choice if they are planning on taking care of this proud breed.
English Mastiffs naturally desire to follow someone whom they can accept as higher in order and stronger than them. This being so, they need a master that is confident and consistent in the rules that are imposed.
Still, through proper training and socialization at an early age, and with the right master, English Mastiffs are good natured, gentle, easy going, and calm. In spite of its size, it can do well indoors as long as it is taken out on regular walks daily.
So with this being said, is the popular English mastiff right for you and your family?
