Source: bing.comIntroduction
Known for their enormous size and gentle demeanor, the English Mastiff is a beloved dog breed that has captured the hearts of many. These gentle giants are known for their loyalty, affectionate nature, and protective instincts. In this article, we will delve deeper into the world of English Mastiffs, their characteristics, history, and how to care for them.
Breed Characteristics of English Mastiff
The English Mastiff is one of the largest dog breeds in the world, with some weighing up to 200 pounds. They have a distinctive wrinkled face, broad skull, and powerful build. English Mastiffs have a short coat that comes in various colors such as fawn, apricot, and brindle. These dogs are known for their calm and gentle disposition, making them excellent family pets.
One unique characteristic of the English Mastiff is their deep bark, which can be quite intimidating to strangers. However, this breed is not aggressive and will only bark to alert their owners of potential danger. They are also known to drool quite a bit, so be prepared to wipe their faces often!
English Mastiffs are not very active dogs and prefer to lounge around the house. However, they still require daily exercise to maintain their health and prevent obesity.
Highlights about English Mastiff
English Mastiffs have a rich history and have been used for various purposes throughout the years. They were originally bred in England as guard dogs and were trained to protect estates and livestock. In the 19th century, English Mastiffs were also used for dog fighting, a cruel and inhumane practice that thankfully no longer exists.
Today, English Mastiffs are primarily kept as family pets. They are known for their loyalty and devotion to their owners and are excellent with children. They are also used as therapy dogs and have been known to bring comfort to those in hospitals and nursing homes.
History of English Mastiff
The English Mastiff has a long and storied history, dating back to ancient times. They are believed to have originated in Asia and were brought to Europe by nomadic tribes. In Europe, they were selectively bred for their size and strength and were used for various purposes such as hunting, guarding, and fighting.
During the Middle Ages, English Mastiffs were used as war dogs and were trained to attack enemy soldiers. They were also used to hunt wild boar and bears, and their strength and size made them excellent for this purpose.
In the 19th century, English Mastiffs became popular in England as family pets and were often seen accompanying their owners on walks and outings. Today, they are still beloved pets and are known for their gentle and affectionate nature.
Size of English Mastiff
As mentioned earlier, the English Mastiff is one of the largest dog breeds in the world. Adult males can weigh up to 200 pounds, while females can weigh up to 150 pounds. They can stand up to 30 inches tall at the shoulder, and their massive size can be quite intimidating to some people.
Despite their size, English Mastiffs are known for their gentle and calm demeanor. They are excellent family pets and are particularly good with children. However, due to their size, they may accidentally knock over small children, so supervision is required.
Personality of English Mastiff
English Mastiffs are known for their loyalty and devotion to their owners. They are gentle and affectionate dogs that thrive on human companionship. They are excellent with children and are very patient and tolerant. However, they can be quite protective of their families and may be wary of strangers.
English Mastiffs are not very active dogs and prefer to lounge around the house. However, they still require daily exercise to maintain their health and prevent obesity. They also require regular socialization to prevent shyness or aggression towards strangers.
How to Keep Health of English Mastiff
As with all dog breeds, English Mastiffs require regular veterinary care to maintain their health. They should receive regular check-ups, vaccinations, and preventative care such as flea and tick prevention. It is also important to keep their teeth clean and their nails trimmed to prevent injury and infection.
English Mastiffs are prone to certain health issues such as hip dysplasia, bloat, and heart problems. It is important to be aware of these issues and to take preventative measures such as feeding them a healthy diet, providing regular exercise, and monitoring their weight.
How to Care for English Mastiff
Caring for an English Mastiff requires patience and dedication. They require daily exercise to maintain their health and prevent obesity. They also require regular grooming to keep their coat clean and shiny, and their wrinkles dry to prevent infection.
English Mastiffs are prone to drooling, so be prepared to wipe their faces often. They also require regular baths to keep their coat clean and free of dirt and debris. It is important to use a mild shampoo that is specifically formulated for dogs to avoid skin irritation.
Feed for English Mastiff
Due to their large size, English Mastiffs require a diet that is specifically formulated for large breed dogs. They require a diet that is high in protein and low in fat to maintain their health and prevent obesity. It is also important to feed them a diet that is free of fillers and artificial preservatives.
English Mastiffs are prone to bloat, a life-threatening condition that occurs when the stomach twists and fills with gas. To prevent bloat, it is important to feed them smaller meals throughout the day and to avoid feeding them immediately before or after exercise.
Coat Color And Grooming for English Mastiff
English Mastiffs have a short, dense coat that comes in various colors such as fawn, apricot, and brindle. They require regular grooming to keep their coat clean and shiny, and their wrinkles dry to prevent infection. It is also important to regularly clean their ears to prevent infection.
English Mastiffs are prone to drooling, so be prepared to wipe their faces often. They also require regular baths to keep their coat clean and free of dirt and debris. It is important to use a mild shampoo that is specifically formulated for dogs to avoid skin irritation.
Conclusion
The English Mastiff is a gentle giant that has captured the hearts of many. They are loyal, affectionate, and protective of their families. However, caring for an English Mastiff requires patience and dedication. They require daily exercise, regular veterinary care, and grooming to maintain their health and prevent obesity and infection.
If you are considering adding an English Mastiff to your family, be prepared to provide them with the love and care they deserve. They are truly one of a kind and will bring joy and companionship to your life for many years to come.
