Mastiff Information

Mastiffs, no matter the type, thrive on love and affection from their "people." These gentle giants love to please, and want to be included in everyday life. If you plan to confine your Mastiff to the backyard, and give him only occasional attention, you will most definitely run into lots of problems. Mastiffs do not enjoy living outdoors, alone. They see themselves as part of the family and will be happiest and healthiest as a member of the family, instead of an outdoor dog.

Mastiff Training

Mastiff puppies are absolutely adorable, but remember that tiny, wiggly puppy will grow very quickly. For dogs of giant stature, early socialization is of paramount importance. All puppies benefit from early socialization, but giant breeds like the Mastiffs require early interactions. In general, Mastiffs are quite social, and tolerant of people, other animals, and small children. Teaching your Mastiff the three W's, welcome, wait, and walk along, will ensure that you and your pup will coexist in peace. Welcome refers to coming when their name is called. Wait refers to sitting quietly while other events happen around them. Walk along refers to walking correctly on a leash without pulling or lagging behind.

Mastiff Care Information

In order to ensure a happy, healthy, Mastiff, you must first understand a bit about the origin of the breed. Mastiffs original jobs involved guarding of kings and other dignitaries. Some, like the Bull Mastiff, fought bulls for the entertainment of others. Therefore, although Mastiffs make excellent family pets, they can be cautious of strangers, and will need the family to first "introduce" the stranger. Mastiffs require a regular daily walk, not more than the average dog, due to a low amount of energy, and mellow personalities. In fact, often times, you must convince your Mastiff that it's exercise time because they can become quite the couch patato!

Mastiff Health Care

Keeping your Mastiff healthy means a lifelong companion and friend. All puppies require the same sets of vaccinations to remain healthy, but special considerations should be taken with an adult Mastiff, considerations related to size. Make sure that your chosen veterinarian has experience with giant breeds. Also, keep in mind an injured Mastiff will require far more brute strength to lift and carry should an emergency arise.