The English Mastiff - is it For You?

If someone were to compile a top 10 list of guard dogs, the English Mastiff would without a shadow of doubt be, in the top three His appearance alone guarantees that anyone who stumbles across this dog thinks twice about coming near him.

It comes as no surprise then that this big dog was used � as early as the sixth century BC � for many "fighting" purposes. He was indispensible in a lot of the blood sports that have become legendary, including bear-baiting, bull-baiting, lion-baiting (believe it or not!) as well as dog fighting.

The English Mastiff breed is an incredible intermingling of grandeur, dignity and courage. He is perhaps to those who don't fully understand the breed, the ultimate paradox of dogs. Loyal, calm, affectionate and loving toward his family, he is a first-class guardian as well, ferocious, tenacious and fearless when the need arises. As if to prove this point, if a stranger approaches the family�s �territory� the English Mastiff will instinctually place himself between owner and stranger.

Should the approaching stranger not give the dog his due, the Mastiff may take swift, immediate defensive action. But for all his fierceness, the English Mastiff is incredibly gentle with children.

The English Mastiff is indeed an imposing figure of a canine . The average Mastiff stands at about 30 inches at the shoulder for males and only a little shorter � 27.5 inches � for females. A male English Mastiff can tip the scale between 160 and 230 pounds. As with any breed of dog, the English Mastiff has its share of health issues. These include hip dysplasia and bloating. The breed is also prone to obesity. As loved as this dog is, there are still plenty of english mastiff rescues.

Bone cancer is higher in incidence with the English Mastiff than a lot of other breeds.A healthy English Mastiff lives to be between nine and 11 years old. He thrives on lots of exercise and a good healthy diet � as you can well imagine. a bit like us humans, he's prone to enjoying "the good life." Don't forget to brush your English Mastiff daily. The chances of developing any concerns dealing with the Mastiff's skin are far less if you make it a habit to brush him regularly.

Ultimately, enjoy your time with your English Mastiff, you will have picked a wonderful breed of dog.

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