The English Mastiff Breed
The English Mastiff is a powerfully built dog with a body that can only be described as "massive", recognised as being the heaviest dog in the world. The English Mastiff is descended from both the ancient breeds, the Alaunt and the Molosser and is recognized as the oldest British breed of dog . It is thought that the mastiff probably gets his name from the Anglo-Saxon word for powerful – "masty."
An imposing figure of a canine, the average English Mastiff stands at about 30 inches at the shoulder for males and only a little shorter – 27.5 inches – for females. A male English Mastiff can weigh in between 160 and 230 pounds, and the female around 140 and 190 pounds or more!
The English Mastiff dog is pre-eminently valued as a guard dog. His appearance alone guarantees that anyone who encounters this dog has second thoughts about coming near him. And yet there always seems to be a supply of english mastiff rescue dogs.
The English Mastiff breed is a rich mixture of grandeur, dignity and courage. Loyal, calm, affectionate and loving toward his family, he is a first-class guardian, since he can be ferocious, tenacious and fearless when the need arises. One of the characteristics of this breed is that the English Mastiff instinctually positions himself between his owner and a stranger when an unknown person approaches the family's territory.
You will not be surprised to learn that this huge dog was used for various "fighting" purposes, proving indispensible in many of the legendary blood sports, like bear-baiting, bull-baiting, lion-baiting and dog fighting.
For all his fierceness, the English Mastiff is incredibly gentle with children.
A healthy English Mastiff lives on average between nine and 11 years. As with any large breed of dog, the English Mastiff has its share of health issues, with special requirements regarding diet and exercise.
He demands a good diet as well as plenty of exercise, but you will probably have to coax him to exercise, being inclined to in-action. You may find that he seems to prefer lounging in the living room rather than running the track outside or walking through the park with you.
You should groom your English Mastiff daily. Another advantage to daily brushing involves skin problems. The chances of developing any concerns dealing with the Mastiff's skin are far less if you make it a habit of brushing him regularly.
The English Mastiff is a dog with not only a huge body, but a heart to match. You and your family migh just fall in love with him!.
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