Canine Mastiff Types

The mastiff, recognized as one of the largest dogs, originally came from England, according to the American Kennel Club. Though massive in size and strength, mastiffs have an engaging and obedient temperament. The breed comes in a variety of colors and types and requires a large amount of space to suit its size.

  1. American and English

    • English mastiffs have loyal traits.

      The English or Old English mastiff were bred as faithful watchdogs to their master. This trait has become desirable in the English breed. An English mastiff not raised with other dogs, can become aggressive to other dogs. The American mastiff looks like an English mastiff, but the American breed tends to have a drier mouth (less drooling). An American mastiff thrives on socialization with its family. Both breeds defend their family with warning barks before engaging in defensive behavior to protect their family. Coloring can include light, fawn to dark.

    Dogue de Bordeaux

    • The Dogue de Bordeaux.

      The Dogue de Bordeaux has various traits including being a guardian, hunter and fighter, indicates the AKC. The Dogue de Bordeaux breed is used to bait bears and jaguars, and hunt boars. This version of the mastiff comes from France. The breed has a calm and patient character. The Dogue de Bordeaux has a more athletic and robust build than the American and English mastiff. Coloring includes fawn to reddish-brown.

    Neapolitan Mastiff

    • This breed isn't recommended around children due to the dog's size.

      The Neapolitan breed has excess skin and wrinkles on the body and comes from Italy. Neapolitan mastiffs can grow to massive sizes, making them appear aggressive in disposition. Neapolitan mastiffs remain protective and loyal to their family. Intrusion into a Neapolitan mastiff's space by a stranger can result in biting. Coloring includes gray, black and striping.

    Tibetan Mastiff

    • This breed contains more fur than its counterparts. Early accounts of the Tibetan mastiff possibly indicate that the breed is from China, believes the AKC. Though the dog has long fur, it sheds only once a year. Tibetan mastiffs have protective qualities toward their family. This can make bringing guests into your home difficult. This breed will charge at strangers. Coloring on Tibetans can include brown, black, gold, spotting and striping.

    Bullmastiff

    • Known for their intelligence, bullmastiffs may not respond to obedience training.

      The bullmastiff has a loyal and gentle temperament, making it good with children. The bullmastiff developed from two breeds, the English mastiff and bulldog. The history of the breed stems back to the 1800s in England. Gamekeepers used the dogs to track poachers without maiming the intruders. A bullmastiff's coloring can include a reddish coating, tan or striping.