English Mastiff Characteristics And Personality Traits

February 23, 2023
/ BREEDS
/ By Joycey

English Mastiffs are known for their large size and gentle nature. Here are some unique characteristics and personality traits of English Mastiffs:

Size: English Mastiffs are one of the largest dog breeds, with males weighing between 160-230 pounds and standing up to 30 inches tall at the shoulder. Females are slightly smaller, weighing between 120-170 pounds and standing up to 27 inches tall.
Gentle nature: English Mastiffs are known for their calm and gentle demeanor, and are often referred to as “gentle giants”. They are affectionate and loyal to their families, and are typically good with children and other pets.
Protective instincts: Despite their gentle nature, English Mastiffs are protective of their families and can be wary of strangers. They make excellent guard dogs and are often used as watchdogs.
Intelligence: English Mastiffs are intelligent dogs and are eager to please their owners. They respond well to positive reinforcement training methods and can excel in obedience and agility training.
Health issues: Like many large dog breeds, English Mastiffs are prone to certain health issues, such as hip and elbow dysplasia, bloat, and heart problems. It’s important to work with a reputable breeder and provide regular veterinary care to keep them healthy.
Short lifespan: Unfortunately, English Mastiffs have a relatively short lifespan, typically living between 6-10 years. This is due in part to their large size and the health issues they are prone to.

Overall, English Mastiffs make excellent family pets for those who have the space and resources to accommodate their size and health needs. They are loyal, protective, and gentle, and can make wonderful companions for those who are willing to give them the care and attention they need.

How Often Should You Screen Your English Mastiff For Health?

The frequency of health screening for your English Mastiff can vary depending on their age, health status, and breed-specific health risks. Here are some general guidelines:

Annual check-ups: It’s a good idea to take your English Mastiff to the veterinarian for an annual check-up, even if they appear to be healthy. During these visits, the veterinarian can perform a physical exam, check for any signs of illness or injury, and recommend any necessary vaccinations or preventive care.
Breed-specific health screening: English Mastiffs, like many dog breeds, are prone to certain health issues such as hip and elbow dysplasia, heart problems, and certain types of cancer. It’s important to work with a reputable breeder who screens their breeding dogs for these health issues, and to continue to screen your English Mastiff throughout their life. Your veterinarian may recommend specific tests or screening protocols based on your English Mastiff’s breed and individual health history.
Signs of illness: It’s important to keep an eye out for any signs of illness or changes in behavior or appetite in your English Mastiff. If you notice any concerning symptoms, such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or loss of appetite, it’s important to take them to the veterinarian for an evaluation.

Overall, it’s important to work closely with your veterinarian to develop a health screening and preventive care plan that is tailored to your English Mastiff’s individual needs. Regular check-ups, breed-specific screening, and close observation can all help ensure that your English Mastiff stays healthy and happy throughout their life.

What Are More Common Health Issues For An English Mastiff?

English Mastiffs, like all dog breeds, can be prone to certain health issues. Some of the more common health issues that English Mastiffs may experience include:

Hip and elbow dysplasia: This is a genetic condition in which the hip or elbow joint does not form properly, leading to arthritis and mobility issues.
Bloat: This is a life-threatening condition in which the stomach fills with gas and twists on itself, cutting off blood flow to the stomach and other organs.
Heart problems: English Mastiffs may be prone to certain heart conditions, such as dilated cardiomyopathy.
Cancer: Some types of cancer, such as osteosarcoma and lymphoma, are more common in English Mastiffs than in other dog breeds.
Joint problems: English Mastiffs may be prone to other joint issues, such as cruciate ligament tears and arthritis.
Eye problems: English Mastiffs may be prone to certain eye conditions, such as entropion and ectropion.

It’s important to work with a reputable breeder who screens their breeding dogs for these health issues, and to continue to screen your English Mastiff throughout their life. Regular check-ups, preventive care, and early intervention can all help to manage these health issues and ensure that your English Mastiff stays healthy and happy.

What Do English Mastiffs Like To Eat, How Much And How Often Per Day?

English Mastiffs have big appetites and love to eat, but it’s important to feed them a balanced and appropriate diet to maintain their health. Here are some guidelines on what English Mastiffs like to eat, how much to feed them, and how often per day:

Food: English Mastiffs require a high-quality dog food that is formulated for their size, age, and activity level. Look for dog food that contains high-quality protein sources, whole grains, and healthy fats.
Portion size: English Mastiffs are a large breed, so they require more food than smaller dogs. However, it’s important not to overfeed them to avoid obesity and health issues. As a general guideline, adult English Mastiffs should eat between 4-8 cups of food per day, divided into two meals. However, the exact portion size will depend on the individual dog’s age, weight, and activity level.
Feeding schedule: It’s best to feed your English Mastiff on a regular schedule, with meals given at the same time every day. Adult English Mastiffs should be fed twice a day, with puppies requiring more frequent feedings.
Treats: English Mastiffs love treats, but it’s important not to overdo it. Treats should be given in moderation and should not exceed 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake.

It’s important to work with your veterinarian to determine the best diet and feeding schedule for your individual English Mastiff, taking into account their age, weight, activity level, and any health concerns.

How Often Should You Groom Your English Mastiff?

English Mastiffs have short, dense coats that require regular grooming to keep them looking and feeling their best. Here are some guidelines on how often you should groom your English Mastiff:

Brushing: English Mastiffs should be brushed at least once a week to remove loose fur and prevent matting. A rubber curry brush or a bristle brush can be used to groom the coat. During shedding season, which typically occurs twice a year, more frequent brushing may be necessary.
Bathing: English Mastiffs do not require frequent bathing, as over-bathing can dry out their skin and coat. It’s recommended to bathe your Mastiff no more than once every 2-3 months, or as needed if they get particularly dirty or smelly. Use a mild dog shampoo and rinse thoroughly to avoid leaving any residue on the coat.
Nail trimming: Mastiffs’ nails should be trimmed regularly, usually every 4-6 weeks. Long nails can cause discomfort, affect the dog’s gait, and even cause injury. If you’re not comfortable trimming your Mastiff’s nails yourself, ask your veterinarian or a professional groomer for assistance.
Ear cleaning: English Mastiffs are prone to ear infections, so it’s important to clean their ears regularly. Check their ears once a week for signs of redness, discharge, or odor, and clean them with a damp cloth or cotton ball. Avoid using cotton swabs, as they can push dirt and debris further into the ear canal.

By following these grooming guidelines, you can help keep your English Mastiff healthy, comfortable, and looking great.

How Often And Long Should You Exercise Your English Mastiff?

English Mastiffs are a large breed that requires regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. However, due to their size and tendency towards joint issues, it’s important to exercise them in a way that is safe and appropriate for their age and physical condition. Here are some general guidelines on how often and how long you should exercise your English Mastiff:

Frequency: English Mastiffs should be exercised daily, but the intensity and duration of the exercise should vary based on their age, health, and activity level. Puppies and young dogs should be exercised in shorter sessions multiple times a day, while adult dogs can handle longer walks or play sessions once or twice a day.
Duration: For adult Mastiffs, a daily walk of 30-45 minutes is usually sufficient, but you can adjust the length of the walk based on your dog’s energy level and physical condition. Puppies and young dogs should have shorter, more frequent play sessions to avoid overexertion.
Type of exercise: English Mastiffs are not built for intense, high-impact exercise like running or jumping, as this can put too much strain on their joints. Instead, focus on low-impact activities like walking, swimming, or gentle play. Avoid exercising your Mastiff in extreme temperatures, as they are prone to overheating.
Mental stimulation: In addition to physical exercise, English Mastiffs also need mental stimulation to keep their minds engaged and prevent boredom. Interactive toys, puzzles, and training sessions can be a great way to provide mental exercise and bonding time with your dog.

Remember, every dog is different, and you should always consult with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate exercise regimen for your English Mastiff based on their individual needs and health status.

How Important Is Obedience Training And Early Socialization For English Mastiffs?

Obedience training and early socialization are extremely important for English Mastiffs. As large and powerful dogs, Mastiffs can become difficult to handle if they are not properly trained and socialized from a young age. Here are some reasons why obedience training and early socialization are so important for English Mastiffs:

Safety: English Mastiffs are large and powerful dogs, and if they are not properly trained and socialized, they can be a safety risk to themselves and others. Obedience training can help teach your Mastiff basic commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come,” which can be critical for keeping them safe in potentially dangerous situations.
Socialization: English Mastiffs can be naturally protective and territorial, and early socialization can help prevent them from becoming aggressive or fearful around strangers. By exposing your Mastiff to a variety of people, animals, and environments from a young age, you can help them develop positive social skills and build confidence.
Bonding: Obedience training and socialization can also be an opportunity to bond with your Mastiff and establish trust and respect. By working with your dog to learn new skills and explore new environments, you can deepen your relationship and create a strong foundation for a happy, healthy life together.

Overall, obedience training and early socialization are essential components of responsible Mastiff ownership. They can help ensure the safety of your dog and those around them, promote positive behavior and social skills, and strengthen the bond between you and your furry companion.

About the Author Joycey

All my life I've been in love with one big dopey Mastiff family member after another. No other breed has given so much pleasure, so it's a joy for my team and I to research everything there is to know about them in this blog. We hope you enjoy the reading as much as we enjoy the writing :)

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