Grandeur, Dignity and Courage, The English Mastiff Has Them All

If a "top ten" list existed for guard dogs, the English Mastiff dog would definitely rank right up there in the top two or 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 various "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. All breeds of dog have their health concerns and in this respect the English Mastiff is no different. These include hip dysplasia and bloating. The breed is also prone to obesity. Sadly even with the huge amount of affection there is for these dogs, there are still plenty of English Mastiff rescues.

The English Mastiff also possesses a higher incidence of bone cancer than some other breeds of dog. A healthy English Mastiff lives to be between nine and 11 years old. He demands a good diet as well as plenty of exercise � 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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