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The English mastiff is the most ‘original’ mastiff of the other variety of breeds. They can get up to about 30 inches off the ground to the shoulder. They take on the Pit Bull look with their legs apart at stance. They weigh at about 160-230 pounds. For the males and for the females about 140-190 pounds while they stand about 27 1/2 inches off the floor.

Named after the Anglo-Saxon word for “powerful”, the English Mastiff certainly lives up to the name. While they were once largely relegated to use in bear baiting and other blood sports (now, thankfully banned) for the entertainment of the British crown, they have since found another line of work as guard dogs, and even house pets.

This fearsome heritage led to their adoption as guard dogs; in that capacity, the breed found its way to the US. Despite their appearance and history of being used as attack dogs, they are in fact very affectionate and make excellent pets, even if you have children.

Being by nature calm and loving, they are a joy to have in the home. This does not that they do not still function more than adequately as guard dogs, and the presence of a mastiff would make nearly any potential intruder think twice.

Like any larger breed, an English Mastiff will need plenty of room to get adequate exercise. Though living indoors is not a problem for them, they do need a good walk or run every day. With proper diet and plenty of exercise, you can expect your dog to live to around 10 years of age.

There are some health problems common to English Mastiffs, such as a tendency to put on weight and a predilection towards having hip dysplasia. This aside, the good qualities of the breed far outweigh the negatives. Great with kids, loving and loyal and some of the best guard dogs in the world, they are a well rounded dog. Before deciding on a breeder to purchase a puppy from, make sure they are a legitimate dealer and have a love for the breed.

The bad about the breed is that they slobber a lot and the fact that they do have quite a few medical concerns. There is not too much to be worried about because for the most part, as you can see in this article, there are plenty of wonderful characteristics that describe the English Mastiff. He is sure to make you one happy owner.

If you’d like to learn more about the English Mastiff, seek out information from others who have decided to adopt one of these gentle giants. There are many websites and forums that can answer just about any question you may have about choosing and living with this magnificent breed. After all, a dog is a member of the family; you’ll want all of the information at hand before you make a big decision like buying a dog.

Tags: Dogs

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