Mastiff

Temperament & Personality

Mastiffs, also known as English Mastiffs or Old English Mastiffs, are famous gentle giants. These dogs are patient, calm, and affectionate with their families. They form strong bonds and often remain relaxed indoors. Mastiffs were originally bred as guardians, so they can be watchful of strangers, but with gentle confidence they usually become friendly. Well-socialized Mastiffs do very well with children and other pets. Because they tend to be laid-back, they prefer a predictable routine and enjoy relaxing at home as much as playtime. With proper leadership and consistent routines, the Mastiff's temperament is typically gentle, loyal, and loving.

Care, Living Environment & Grooming

Mastiffs have a short, dense coat that is easy to care for. They shed moderately; weekly brushing will remove loose fur. Their biggest grooming issue is drooling – keep a towel or rag handy to wipe their chin and chest. Check and clean their facial wrinkles and ears regularly to prevent moisture buildup or infection. Because of their large size, Mastiffs need space to move. They do best in homes with a large yard or spacious interior. Provide a sturdy, low-sided water bowl so they can drink comfortably and a high-quality supportive bed to help their hips and elbows stay comfortable. They require regular, moderate exercise such as daily walks; avoid strenuous activity especially while they are growing, to protect their joints.

• Brush weekly: Remove loose hair and maintain coat health.
• Wipe drool: Keep a cloth handy to clean their heavy drool and damp areas around the face.
• Bathe occasionally: A bath every few months or as needed will keep their coat clean.
• Trim nails: Keep nails short to reduce strain on joints.
• Check ears: Clean ears regularly to prevent infections.

Training & Socialization

Mastiffs are intelligent but can also be independent or stubborn. Start training early with a confident, patient approach. Use positive reinforcement (praise and treats) and set clear, consistent rules. Because Mastiffs mature slowly, be patient – many are not fully obedient until around 2 years of age. Housebreaking and obedience training will require time and consistency. Socialize your puppy extensively by introducing them to children, other animals, and various environments in a positive manner. For example, reward calm behavior and gently correct unwanted actions. Puppy classes can also be helpful. Avoid harsh punishment, as Mastiffs respond best to kind guidance. With steady training and socialization, your Mastiff will grow into a well-mannered, confident companion.

Health Considerations

• Hip & Elbow Dysplasia: Misaligned hip or elbow joints causing arthritis; genetic and common in Mastiffs.
• Dilated Cardiomyopathy: An inherited heart muscle disease that can lead to heart failure.
• Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (Bloat): Life-threatening stomach twisting seen in deep-chested breeds.
• Hypothyroidism: Underactive thyroid gland, a hereditary hormonal disorder common in large dogs.

Responsible breeders screen for these conditions. Maintaining a healthy weight and routine vet care can help minimize problems.

Cost of Ownership

Owning a Mastiff is a significant commitment. Typical annual costs for this large breed include:

• Food & Treats: Large-breed dog food (about $800/year).
• Veterinary & Insurance: Routine care and pet insurance (around $800/year).
• Training & Boarding: Obedience classes or kennel fees (about $400/year).
• Supplies: Large crate, sturdy collar and leash, bed, and toys (around $300 one-time/$100 replacement).
• Miscellaneous: Grooming supplies, tags, etc. (approximately $100/year).

These add up to roughly $3,000 per year. Extra veterinary costs for health issues common in giant breeds can raise the total.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Gentle, affectionate family dog with a calm, dignified temperament.
• Loyal guardian instincts; protective without being aggressive.
• Low grooming needs due to short coat.
• Generally good with children and other pets when properly socialized.
• Relatively low exercise requirements for a large dog.

Cons

• Extremely large size requires ample space and strong handling.
• Heavy drooling and snoring are common.
• Short lifespan (typically 6–10 years) and high veterinary costs.
• Prone to serious health issues (see above).
• Not suitable for small apartments or inexperienced owners.

Fun Facts

• The heaviest Mastiff ever recorded weighed 343 pounds (155 kg)!
• Mastiffs have been companions and guardians for royalty since ancient times.
• Despite their size, many Mastiffs behave like large lap dogs – they love cuddling and dozing with their owners.

Frequently Asked Questions

How big do Mastiffs get?

Mastiffs are among the largest dog breeds. Adult males typically stand about 30 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh 160–230+ pounds (73–104 kg), while females are slightly smaller.

Are Mastiffs good with children?

Yes. With proper training and socialization, Mastiffs are very gentle and protective with children. However, because of their size, supervision is important to prevent accidental knocks or falls.

How much exercise does a Mastiff need?

Mastiffs need moderate exercise. A daily walk of 30–60 minutes and some playtime is usually sufficient. Avoid strenuous activity, especially in young dogs whose bones are still developing.

Do Mastiffs drool a lot?

Yes, Mastiffs are known for being heavy droolers. Their loose lips and jowls often produce a lot of slobber. It's perfectly normal but be prepared to wipe them often!

References

1. PetMD – Mastiff
2. Dogster – Mastiff Health Problems