Old English Mastiff

The sheer size of the Mastiff necessitates more space than a smaller dog. However, Mastiffs are notoriously lazy and often prefer to lounge around and go for slow walks. They require little more than a few 30-minute walks per day. Because of their large size, they’re not athletic companions and can overheat easily. Therefore, they should be encouraged to take slow walks to maintain their joints and prevent arthritis.

English Mastiffs have a voracious appetite and require a high daily caloric intake to maintain their large size. Owners should budget accordingly for large quantities of dry food.

Mastiffs shed a lot and will need regular brushing and bathing to maintain their undercoat. A specialized brush to remove the undercoat is often used.

Like most large breeds, the Mastiff is predisposed to a host of associated giant breed dog diseases. Their sheer size makes veterinary care expensive and owners should be prepared for the accompanying medical costs. It is important to note that their lifespan is also shorter than may be expected, ranging from 6 – 9 years. They will need to have a gastropexy performed at the time of neuter or spay to prevent gastric dilatation volvulus or “bloat.” Mastiffs also have many orthopedic conditions and may need to have surgery to address them. Heart disease, specifically a disease called Dilated Cardiomyopathy, can also occur at a young age and may require a full cardiac work-up and medications for life.

Mastiffs are predisposed to: gastric torsion, hip dysplasia, ruptured cranial cruciate ligament, dilated cardiomyopathy, cataracts, entropion, cherry eye, corneal dystrophy, urolithiasis, arthritis, elbow dysplasia, osteosarcoma, and oligodendroglioma.

Diligent breeding has taken the persona of the “Old English Mastiff fighting dog” and turned it into an affectionate and sensitive best friend. Mastiffs are extremely good with children and tolerate a lot of poking and prodding. They are loyal and faithful, but can be aggressive toward other household pets. They can be wary of strangers and may require a firm hand in public on a leash.

The sheer size of the Mastiff necessitates more space than a smaller dog. However, Mastiffs are notoriously lazy and often prefer to lounge around and go for slow walks. They require little more than a few 30-minute walks per day. Because of their large size, they’re not athletic companions and can overheat easily. Therefore, they should be encouraged to take slow walks to maintain their joints and prevent arthritis.