Opting For The English Mastiff Breed For A Family Friend

The largest dog in the canine family is the English Mastiff breed. This is according to statistics published by world record books. Its temperament is docile and proud. It is a great dog that is loyal to the end for its owner and loves people. Many may be scared of its size but the mastiff's temperament is a regal blend of protection and humility.

The oldest English breed the mastiff dates back to the days when owners used their dogs for practical purposes. The dogs were bred to do baiting for hunters against bear and lions as well as other animals. Their demeanor made them popular for combat situations where they would fight along with their owners and stand between their owner and any threatening enemy they perceived.

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.

A mastiff's body is square and they are just big in size. But they are extremely lovable as they are so loyal and caring as they bond with their family. In puppy hood they need to have careful watch over their diet. This is because the grown so rapidly. Like a football player during training season they have to eat well and have a lot of nutrients. To avoid obesity in a Mastiff an owner must commit to daily exercise for overall well being.

Though a mastiff is typically well natured to everyone they will be defensive with their owners and family. They will stand between their owner and what they perceive as someone who is a threat. Proper training is the key to their breed due to the fact that because of their size they can be misunderstood by others who do not know their temperament.

Mastiffs are also good with small dogs, which is everyone else. They are also known to be very good around children. This is appealing for a family dog because of their loyalty and courage to be a great family pet. The English Mastiff breed has a long line of loyalty and that heritage continues today with families all over the country.

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