English Mastiff

What Is The History Of The English Mastiff Breed?

The history of the breed is a long and storied one. These massive dogs were initially bred in England to guard property and hunt large game. Over the centuries, they have also been used as working dogs, guard dogs, and loyal companions.

The English Mastiff is thought to be descended from the ancient Molosser dogs of Greece and Rome. These canines were known for their large size, courage, and ferocity, qualities which would have made them well-suited for guarding property and hunting dangerous prey. The first recorded mention of an English Mastiff type dog comes from the year 55 AD, when Julius Caesar wrote about a massive canine that was used by the Britons in battle.

English Mastiffs continued to be bred for size and strength throughout the centuries. They were commonly used as working dogs on farms and estates and were also employed as guard dogs and hunting dogs. In Victorian England, they became popular pets among the upper class. Queen Victoria owned several English Mastiffs and helped make the breed more fashionable.

What Does An English Mastiff Look Like?

The English Mastiff is a large and powerful dog breed with a short, thick coat. The coat is typically apricot,  fawn or brindle in color, with a black mask covering the face. The length of the coat varies depending on the individual dog but is generally quite short. Some English Mastiffs have longer coats, which may require more grooming than those with shorter coats. The coat of the English Mastiff is easy to care for and does not require much brushing or bathing.

The English Mastiff has a large, square head, and a short, thick neck. The body is long and muscular, with straight legs and a deep chest. The tail is medium in length and may be either straight or slightly curved.

How Big Is An Adult English Mastiff?

The average adult English Mastiff male weighs between 150 and 220 pounds, while the average female weighs between 120 and 170 pounds. However some individuals may weigh more or less than this.  Both the male and female mastiffs average at an average height of  28 and 36 inches at the shoulder. Again, some individuals will always be taller or shorter than this. So, in general, English Mastiffs are quite large dogs!

Are There Other Dog Breeds Related To The English Mastiff?

The English Mastiff is related to several other dog breeds, including the Bullmastiff, Dogue de Bordeaux, Fila Brasileiro, Cane Corso, Neapolitan Mastiff, Tibetan Mastiff, Spanish Mastiff, and Pugnaces Britanniae (which is now extinct). These breeds share same characteristics as the English Mastiff, including their large size, powerful build, and loyal nature.

What Is The Life Expectancy Of An English Mastiff?

The average life expectancy for an English Mastiff is about 6-12 years. Some individual dogs may live a bit longer or shorter than this, but this is generally considered the typical lifespan for the breed. While some larger breeds of dogs are known for having shorter lifespans than smaller breeds, the English Mastiff is relatively long-lived compared to other dogs its size. With proper care and nutrition, many English Mastiffs will enjoy a full and healthy life well into their senior years.

Can An English Mastiff Be Trained?

The English Mastiff is a large, loyal dog breed that can make an excellent pet for the right owner. With proper training and socialization, these dogs can be gentle giants who are good with children and other animals. They can also be protective of their family and home, making them good watchdogs. English Mastiffs need plenty of exercise to stay healthy and happy, so owners should be prepared to provide them with daily walks or play sessions. An English Mastiff can be a wonderful addition to any family with the right training and care.

What Are Some Interesting Facts About An English Mastiff?

  1. The English Mastiff is one of the biggest dog breeds in the world, with some dogs weighing over 200 pounds.
  2. These dogs have been around for centuries and were initially bred for hunting large game animals like wild boar.
  3. Mastiffs are known for being gentle giants and are often very good with children.
  4. Despite their large size, English Mastiffs are actually quite lazy and enjoy lounging around the house.
  5. These dogs have short coats that are easy to care for and come in various colors, including brindle, fawn, and black.

How Does An English Mastiff Interact With People?

An English Mastiff generally has a good relationship with people. They are patient and gentle but can also be protective of their family. They need plenty of socialization to interact well with people, but once they know someone, they are usually friendly. They do best in homes with older children who can respect their size and strength.