Mastiff

An English guardian with close family bonds

The Mastiff belongs to Britain’s traditional guardian breeds. Numbers fell sharply during the Second World War, and dogs from North America helped rebuild the population. The international canine organisation FCI describes the breed as calm and affectionate towards their family, usually with a reserved attitude to strangers.

That calm presence is particularly pleasant when a dog has learned that visitors are part of everyday life. New people should allow time for introductions. Some space and a familiar resting place are more helpful than several hands reaching for the dog’s head at once. Around children, sheer weight matters too. Standing up or turning enthusiastically can knock a small child over. An adult should supervise time together, and the dog should be left undisturbed while eating or sleeping.

Everyday life

An adult Mastiff needs daily walks, even if much of the time at home is spent resting. Opportunities to sniff and a comfortable walking pace generally suit the breed better than sustained athletic exertion. The American Kennel Club describes their exercise needs as relatively moderate. The distance an individual enjoys also depends on age, fitness and health.

Short, varied training sessions with worthwhile rewards are useful. Walking on a loose lead, waiting briefly at a doorway and accepting handling for an examination should be practised early. These skills make caring for a powerful adult much easier. Lengthy repetitions of the same task may soon lose the dog’s interest.

A flat can be suitable if daily outdoor exercise and sufficient room for the dog are available. Wide paths through the home, a large bed and access outdoors without numerous stairs are practical priorities. Nonslip surfaces make getting up easier. Workdays and holidays also need a carer who can safely handle a dog of this size. Time alone should be introduced through short, gradual absences.

Everyday dog training: recall, a loose lead and clear communication ↗

Day-to-day care

A soft brush or grooming mitt works well on the short, dense coat. Brushing every few days removes loose hair, with extra sessions during shedding. Mastiffs may drool considerably, so an absorbent cloth and an easy to clean area around the water bowl are useful.

Facial folds should be checked regularly, cleaned with a suitable product when needed and dried carefully afterwards. Moist folds allow bacteria and yeast to multiply. Redness, an unpleasant smell or soreness should be assessed by a vet. Grooming should also include checks of the nails, ears and teeth. Gradually teaching the dog to accept brushing with dog toothpaste makes dental care easier to include in the routine.