The Mastiff Breed

The Mastiff is universally acknowledged as a very ancient breed. Because of their size and courage, they were exported to Rome for exhibition in the gladiatorial arenas. Mastiffs were so highly thought of, that they were given to Kings to help fight their battles. They have proven to guard property, farms and homesteads for hundreds of years. It is said, that in the 1800вЂ™s the Mastiff was used in the sport of "bear baiting". As a result, there was a great decline in the breed. Over the next 200 years, there have been periods of growth and declines, almost to the point of extinction. The Mastiff breed has been firmly re-established and continues to have increased recognition throughout the world today. After hundreds of years of struggling to survive, the Mastiff's appearance has changed from years gone by but it still remains one of the largest and loyal dogs around.

Many people are drawn to a Mastiff on his size alone, they forget how large a dog he can become and what he will require. This puppy you have is oh so sweet and cute, but by 3 months of age it's nothing for that cute puppy to weigh 30 - 35 pounds. While on a walk, are you ready to pick up that tired puppy and carry him or her the rest of the way home? That cute puppy will grow to 27- 36 inches at shoulder and 130 to 250 pounds over the next couple of years. And it's the dogs size that will dictate other things in your life. At maturity, it won't fit in the back seat of a compact car, you'll have to fight for your spot on the bed, a table can be cleared from that swinging tail. Mastiffs long to be a part of every moment of family life. They'll become your constant shadow. You're on the way out the door to work or church but here comes someone to give you that big slobbery kiss, there go the clothes. Expect to do more laundry and expect to have more slobber in your life. Another expense to consider is the veterinarian. You'll need to chose one that understands the needs of such a large breed. Not only will you have the expense of regular shots and exams but the growth of a Mastiff is so rapid that you'll need to have him/her checked on a regular basis. And it's best to have a veterinarian that understands the pains that large dogs can have. Their limbs and muscles will be going through some rapid growth spurts.

Mastiffs are wonderful, people loving creatures. They yearn for the constant company of humans and want to be a part of the family. They crave the companionship of their owner, they are not an independent breed. They thrive on human contact and will excel as a result of such. Being stuck on a chain or locked up in a cage is not for them, it's cruel to exclude them from being a part of the family. They can't be expected to flourish when they are not allowed to show their true gentle nature by being a part of the family unit. Mastiffs are very tranquil animals, they truly are the most loving and affectionate dog I've ever had. They are known in the dog world as the "Gentle Giant" and that they are!! A Giant they may be but don't let their size fool you. A firm voice is all you need for discipline. I have a male that is 200 plus pounds and all I need to say is "Who made this mess?" and he hides underneath the kitchen table. They are very sensitive dogs. NO striking this dog in any manner, that would prove to be very destructive to his behavior. Ill treatment and punishment will only cause him to lose respect for his master. Mastiffs are not aggressive but because of their size, they intimidate most people. They have proven to be wonderful with children and will guard their family, but they are not guard dogs per se. They do have their natural instinct to guard their family. To train these large dogs beyond what they were born with can result in an aggressive dog that can be hard to control amid your own family as well the public, thus taking from him his laid back character and easy going manner.

They are Big and can get Bigger! They are one of the largest dog breeds today and when full grown they can eat upwards of 8 cups of food a day. Mastiffs should be fed a premium dog food. The cheaper store brand dog food will only damage him/her in the long run. At the rate they grow, a good dog food with the proper amount of protein will prove to be one of the most valuable things you can do for your dog. Making him/her grow faster than nature intended is not the way to go. Proper nutrition with a quality dog food, a few treats here and there or the appropriate, human foods can provide your dog with improved quality of life, appearance and health. **Make sure you educate yourself with what foods are acceptable to dogs. You also need to realize that with a dog that size and that much food, that's one good pile of poo! You need to be prepared for clean up on a larger scale.

Mastiffs tend to drool, especially after drinking, keep those drool towels handy! Mastiffs do tend to be clumsy, mostly because they have no sense of how big they are. They can knock a child or adult down, only out of awkwardness, not spite. A puppy needs lots of care and attention. If you have a hectic, unpredictable schedule, this may not be the right move for you now. As with people, puppies have personalities of their own. Let your breeder help you find the puppy whose personality would be best suited to you. Do not be insulted when the breeder ask you lots of questions, they only want to make sure puppy has a fit provider. Money and more money will be spent. Toys, collars, leashes, vet visits, food, crate and more. You must be able to handle the financial responsibility of owing a new dog. Make sure that your home is safe for your Mastiff. Take precautions that puppy will not get into anything that would harm him. Providing toys for your puppy is in your best interest. If your don't provide him chew toys, he'll make his own. They can become bored and destructive and literally destroy your living room. Socialization!! Your puppy needs to experience new things. Car rides, television, crowds, being brushed, etc. Having positive experiences will allow him to be well adjusted and not easily frightened. Rest? Exercise? It's a baby! Babies need rest. This giant breed does not need lots of exercise, hard exercise can contribute to serious health issues. Stock up on the air freshener! These babies are gassy, they can clear a room in seconds! SNORING! Can be the nerve-wracking kind, not generally a soothing sound. Mastiffs can be quite stubborn. He may test you many a time until he finally learns that you mean business and not monkey business. These are just a few things to think about and consider before you purchase a mastiff. With careful consideration and planning, your new puppy will give you years of love and loyalty, please give him the same. By allowing him to enter your life, home and heart, you'll have a friend for life!!