Routine Care: Mastiffs tend to be lazy, therefore soft bedding is recommended to help prevent joint problems and calluses. Adequate exercise can be provided with daily walks, keeping in mind their sensitivity to warm temperatures.
Grooming: Mastiffs have low grooming needs. Brush their coat as needed, at least weekly.
Dental: Mastiffs generally have good teeth, and you can keep them perfect by brushing them at least twice a week!
Ear Care: Clean ears weekly, even as a puppy. Don’t worry—your veterinarian can show you how!
Mastiffs are watchful and loyal. Although they rarely bark, Mastiffs are very aware of surroundings and make an excellent guardian.
Positive Traits:
Affectionate, easygoing, and lovable
Large, strong, and athletic
Protective of owners; excellent guard dog
Adaptable to a wide variety of living conditions
Confident, steady, and fearless
Docile and devoted
Negative Traits:
Can be rambunctious and rowdy, especially as a puppy
Willful and stubborn if you don’t show strong leadership
Can be gassy and drool a lot
Makes a lot of snorting, snuffling, and wheezing noises, and may snore
Takes up a lot of room due to their massive size
Likes to dig
Whether you are considering adding a new Mastiff to your family or you already have one as a companion, it is important for you to know about the genetically linked diseases known to occur more often in this breed. Of course not every Mastiff will have these problems, but research shows your pal is more at risk than other breeds.
By exploring the health concerns specific to the Mastiff you will become a knowledgeable and confident pet parent. Be sure to speak with your veterinarian about breed risks every time you visit and educate yourself on the most important signs to watch for at home. They are counting on you to be their health expert.
Some health issues a Mastiff could encounter:
Bloat
Bone and Joint Problems
Hip Dysplasia and Elbow Dysplasia
Knee Ligament Tear
Bone Pain
Neurological Disease
The English Mastiff is a very old breed; the first written records date back to 55 BC. The Mastiff is one of the heaviest of all the dog breeds. It is believed that the first Mastiff in America arrived on the Mayflower. Mastiffs are natural guardians of family and home, but they are rarely aggressive. They are described as Gentle Giants: calm and loving with children and other animals. The Mastiff bonds closely with family and needs close human companionship.
Consult with a veterinarian if your Mastiff shows signs of the following:
Dry heaving or a large, tight, painful abdomen
General reluctance to run or play
Pain or straining to urinate, bloody urine
Lameness with or without swelling
Blinking, redness, pain or itchiness around the eyes
Increased blinking, extra tears and squinting
Cloudiness to eye lens
Bumping into objects, startles easily
Coughing, exercise intolerance, rapid breathing at rest
Shortness of breath, cough, or fainting
Excessive licking or chewing, pawing at face and/or ears, head shaking, face rubbing
