The History of the English Mastiff

The English mastiff isn't only the world's biggest dog; it is also the oldest English breed. Caring for dogs are never easy, and if you want to take home a mastiff, though generally docile, slow moving and dedicated, the world's biggest breed entails responsibility that matches its size.

  1. Origin

    • Although the ancestors of this breed are said to have been brought to Britain by Venetian traders in 500 B.C., these dogs are believed to have existed thousands of years before. Mastiffs were portrayed in Egyptian art in 3000 B.C. and were also depicted by Caesar as fighting alongside British soldiers in 55 B.C. This breed is said to have arrived in America on the Mayflower and was later imported back to Britain when the breed was close to extinction because of World War II.

    Physical Characteristics

    • The average mastiff weighs as much as an average human male, around 140 to 200 lbs. Although not the tallest breed, they are the biggest breed in mass. These heavy-boned, muscular dogs come in apricot, fawn and brindle with wrinkled foreheads, wide-set eyes and heads said to be as big as those of polar bears.

    Temperament

    • The English mastiff is often called the gentle giant because of its laid-back and easygoing nature. They aren't barkers and are homebodies who take up a lot of space and don't require much exercise. Because of their size and protective nature, they still make ideal watchdogs and are often used for police and military work, search and rescue and pulling loads.

    Owning a Mastiff

    • Owning a mastiff means having to deal with the common health problems that come with the breed - including hip dysplasia, eye problems, obesity and bone cancer. They commonly wheeze, drool a lot and snore loudly. Although they don't shed much and require minimal grooming, bathing them can be a challenge because of their size. They respond moderately well to training but require a lot of patience because these dogs move slowly. Their mild temperament makes them child friendly; however, families with small children are not advised to have this breed for a pet by virtue of their size. English mastiffs have a life expectancy of 10 to 12 years.