Making A Choice As The English Mastiff Breed As The Family Friend

By Regine Hehn

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.

Known as the oldest living English breed the English Mastiff is also know as an Old English Mastiff. Dating back for centuries the breed was usually used for protection or baiting. Such sport and bear or lion baiting was common. Its level of loyalty and protection has been noted for time as the breed would stand over it's over in protection during times of combat throughout history.

Their size makes them suitable for these purposes. With their massive square bodies they can be intimidating as they weigh in over two hundred pounds as a female and up to two fifty for a male. Some are even bigger than that. Their traits made them good stud dogs for breeding and developing other canine lines that are larger in size such as the Great Dane.

During ancient times and the uses the Mastiff held the dogs were in much popularity. As the world becomes more civilized the breed stopped being produced as much and by world war one and two the breed dwindled to the point of concern for extinction. Yet through breeding and cultivation by their owners the breed in not in danger and is the twenty eighth most popular dog to own today.

The mastiff has beautiful apricot colorings on average. Some have darker shades or possibly fawn but apricot is standard. Their ears and face are darker and mask like as it is black in color or another shade of brown or blue black depending on the dog. They are short haired dogs but some, called 'fluffies', have longer curly hair.

The mighty Mastiff is extremely lovable and loyal. As a puppy they need to take special care of their diet. They grow very rapidly and have a hearty appetite and require a lot of exercise. It is good if you are considering this breed that you are committed to giving your animal daily walks and runs for good health in the future. This will also help obesity in the dog as this is an issue with them.

Some people misunderstand Mastiffs and regard them as dangerous. This is because they are extremely loyal and will come between anyone who approaches their owner. This is their instinct and they will follow it. Usually they will simply stand in between. Because of their size that is all they need to do but if provoked they will protect their family from anyone intruding on them. This is what makes them good guard dogs.

But as protective as they are the English mastiff breed is extremely docile and wonderful with children and smaller dogs. They have less instances of injury as opposed to smaller pocket dogs of popularity. They are loyal to the end, will love you for life and protect you because they love you that much.

About the Author: