The Mastiff Dog

The Mastiff dog originates from Great Britain dating back to ancient times. In its history, the Mastiff was used as a war dog, gladiator, fighting dog, and hunting dog (including bear and bull baiting). Perhaps the most famous Mastiff in history is the Mastiff of Sir Peers Legh of Lyme Hall (in the English County of Cheshire). Sir legh fought for King Henry V of England in the battle of Agincourt (October 25, 1415). Sir legh was injured during the battle and while he lay on the battle field for several hours, his Mastiff, who had accompanied him on this campaign, stood guard over him and protected him. Although Sir Legh died of his injuries, his Mastiff was returned to his estate and played an important role in developing the Lyme Hall Mastiffs. For centuries afterwards, Lyme Hall Mastiffs where sought after as breeding stock and have figured greatly in the modern breed lines.
The Mastiff is one of the largest dogs in the world. It is very powerful and requires a lot of space to live and exercise. It also needs a lot of food to keep it nourished and healthy.

Origin Great Britain

Original Use Guard dog, military dog, fighting dog

Use Today Companion, guard dog

Temperament The Mastiff dog is calm, gentle, easy going, and good natured, making a good family dog. However, it can be very protective of its family. Because of its size this can be a problem if not controlled in a reasonable manner.

Acceptance of: Other Dogs - Accepting if raised with them.

Other Pets - Accepting if raised with them.

Strangers - Good
Children - Good

Watchdog Ability Excellent

Guard dog Ability Excellent

Ease of Training The Mastiff dog is easy to train and by its nature is obedient. Training should be with positive reinforcement.

Living Conditions The Mastiff dog can live outdoors in most cool to temperate climates. It does not do well in hot weather. Most drool a lot.

Exercise Requires a lot of daily exercise.

Coat The Mastiff has a two layered coat. the inner coat is quite dense, the outer coat is short and course, lying close to the body.

Grooming Requires minimal grooming.

Colors The mastiff comes in a variety of colors: apricot fawn, silver fawn and dark fawn brindle. All of these color schemes include a black muzzle, nose and ears.

Height and Weight Weight range is 170 to 200 pounds ( 77.1 to 90.7 kg) while the height range is 27 to 30 inches (68.6 to 76.2 cm). Variations may occur in individual animals.

Life Expectancy 7 to 11 years.

Group The AKC places the Mastiff dog in the Working group.

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