The world-record holder for the heaviest dog in the world is an English mastiff. Like most large dog breeds, the English mastiff's formidable size belies a gentle, loving personality. Nevertheless, they are vigilant and courageous watchdogs that take any possible threats to their families very seriously. Despite its docile demeanor, the huge size of the mastiff can make it hard to control. Therefore, this may not be the best dog breed for a first-time owner, although an experienced owner can find a faithful friend in an English mastiff.
History
The English mastiff is one of the oldest dog breeds. Its ancestors probably came to the British Isles through trade with Phoenician sailors. It was originally bred for hunting large game, guarding homes and businesses, and fighting in war.
When the Roman army, led by Julius Caesar, invaded England, English mastiffs were part of the forces trying to fight them off. Though the Romans eventually succeeded in their conquest, Caesar was impressed by the courage and strength of the English mastiff. He brought some back to Rome where, in addition to their traditional roles, they were also bred for sport, forced to fight lions and gladiators in the arena. Dogfighting, unfortunately, became common in England too, and for centuries, English mastiffs were bred for aggression. An 1835 law made dogfighting illegal in England, after which time, aggression was bred out of the mastiff line.
A food shortage in Britain following World War II almost led to the extinction of the English mastiff breed. It was only breeding stock from North America transported across the Atlantic that saved it.
Personality and Behavior
English mastiffs are devoted to their families and need lots of love and attention. They have a natural instinct to protect their people from any perceived threat, so it is important to train and socialize them from an early age. Though mastiffs are vigilant in protecting their families, they are not unduly aggressive about it. Instead of biting an intruder, they are more likely to hold him down or trap him in a corner until you call the appropriate authorities for help.
Mastiffs are patient with and tolerant of children. Nevertheless, they may not be a good choice for families with young kids. They don't know their own size and strength, so they could unintentionally injure a young child by knocking her over.
Like all dog breeds, mastiffs have a natural chewing instinct. Because of their large size and strong jaws, they can inadvertently cause extensive damage. They should have plenty of sturdy chew toys available to provide an acceptable outlet for their instinctual needs.
Training
English mastiffs are eager to please but only possess average intelligence. Long training sessions can frustrate and bore them, so sessions should be short and positive, with lots of praise and treats for good behavior.
Crate training can benefit both you and your English mastiff. However, you must be sure to choose a crate that is large enough to accommodate his huge size comfortably.
Home Life
English mastiffs may not do well in small spaces because they need room to move around and stretch out. However, they may do well in a moderately sized apartment because they are quiet dogs that only bark to alert you and do not require a lot of exercise.
English mastiffs can knock items off shelves with their tails, so breakables should be stored as high as possible. Don't leave food sitting out because a mastiff can easily steal it off tables and counters.
Health
As a large, low-energy dog, an English mastiff is susceptible to putting on weight. Obesity can put her at risk for other health problems. To prevent this, your mastiff should receive daily exercise. Mastiffs are more tolerant of cold than heat, so a short walk in the evening and another in the morning may be ideal. Additionally, you should feed your dog food formulated for large breeds so that she receives adequate nourishment.
The huge bulk of the mastiff puts pressure on his joints, which can contribute to arthritis over time. Mastiffs are also famous for simply plopping down when they get tired and refusing to move. Short walks are therefore preferable to long runs to avoid overexertion.
Mastiffs are susceptible to bloat, a dangerous condition in which a full stomach twists around, cutting off the circulation. You can prevent this by exercising your dog before meals rather than after and using an elevated feeder.
Mastiffs are also at risk for other health problems:
• Cancer
• Hip dysplasia
• Degenerative eye disorders, e.g., progressive retinal atrophy
A responsible breeder tries to keep hereditary conditions out of the line, but even an otherwise healthy mastiff may only live about six to 10 years.
Grooming and Hygiene
Bathing an English mastiff can be a challenge due to their large size and a tendency towards stubbornness. She may not fit in the bathtub, so you may have to bathe her outside or at a special dog wash facility. Fortunately, mastiffs don't need frequent baths, perhaps once a month at most.
Mastiffs have short double coats that need to be brushed or combed every few days, perhaps more often during the shedding season in spring and fall. They have folds and wrinkles on their face that can allow bacteria to breed unless they are cleaned out regularly.
English mastiffs drool constantly, so you should always have a towel or rag handy. They are also prone to flatulence, though a healthy diet can make this less offensive.
Not everyone is able to manage such a huge dog breed. Nevertheless, those up to the challenge find that the English mastiff has lots of love to offer.
