Deciding On The English Mastiff Breed As Your Family Friend

According to record books the English Mastiff breed is the largest dog in the canine family. The largest dog recorded weighed in at 353 pounds. You would think a dog that big is a tough mean dog. In reality the Mastiff is a docile and proud well natured animal who loves their owners and will protect them for life.

The Mastiff is also recognized as the oldest living English breed. The line originated in being able to protect and serve long before police officers came into history. They were used for animal baiting as well in sport and because of their strong demeanor proved to be very efficient. Because of their protection status and loyalty they stayed with their owners and protected them in situations of was and combat.

Their massive size is legendary which is what made them suitable for these types of tasks. An average male can weigh up to two hundred fifty pounds and a female up to two hundred pounds. This breed is noted in the line of other registered breeds as the source of many larger breeds we know today. But the mastiff still holds the record. The largest mastiff recorded to date is 353 pounds in size.

As popular as the mastiff is today the line almost ceased to exist after world war two. The line lost popularity and only a few breeders kept the line running in Great Britain. This is a thing of the past as breeders now sell and show mastiffs now only for purposes of lineage but to make great household pets. Or should I say family members.

A Mastiff though larger is a beautiful dog. With apricot or fawn coloring the line tends to have short hair. There are exceptions called ‘fluffies’ that have long curly hair as well. On their face is a mask of black or chocolate brown which also appears on their ears as well.

The mighty Mastiff is extremely lovable and loyal. As a puppy they need to take special care of their diet. They grow very rapidly and have a hearty appetite and require a lot of exercise. It is good if you are considering this breed that you are committed to giving your animal daily walks and runs for good health in the future. This will also help obesity in the dog as this is an issue with them.

Some people misunderstand Mastiffs and regard them as dangerous. This is because they are extremely loyal and will come between anyone who approaches their owner. This is their instinct and they will follow it. Usually they will simply stand in between. Because of their size that is all they need to do but if provoked they will protect their family from anyone intruding on them. This is what makes them good guard dogs.

But as protective as they are the English mastiff breed is extremely docile and wonderful with children and smaller dogs. They have less instances of injury as opposed to smaller pocket dogs of popularity. They are loyal to the end, will love you for life and protect you because they love you that much.

Before buying an english mastiff dog, you need to read up a bit. Check out all you need to know about the english mastiff breed. Head online now and learn more!