General Information

So you think you want a Mastiff ?

There are going to be questions you wish to ask but do not know who to ask. In this document we will try to give you a very brief reply to the usual questions asked. If you wish for more information please contact us directly.

The Mastiff (sometimes known as the Old English Mastiff) is a very ancient breed, and has been known in England for several thousand years. Originally a guarding dog they have almost certainly been used for hunting and fighting over the centuries. Much is lost in history and tends to be myth and supposition.

What is not legend is the faithful records of great loyalty, best known by the exploits of a Mastiff at the battle of Agincourt and following period of the Mastiffs of Lyme Hall.

The Mastiff is a superb family dog, absolutely reliable with children and adults alike. If teased by the younger ones, the Mastiff will tend to move out of the reach of the tormentor, and would never normally retaliate. They wish to please their owners, but are not normally considered suitable for competition obedience work, although there has been some small success in Australia.

First definite records of Mastiffs in Australia date back to shows in Sydney and Melbourne in the 1850’s, however, after the turn of the century numbers declined and it is only in the past few years that numbers have increased and they are now a much sought after dog.

Some questions and answers

• Do they eat a lot? During the growing stages a Mastiff puppy eats a fair amount, but less than most people would expect from the weight of the dog.
• Are they difficult to keep fit? The needs of a puppy Mastiff are simple, but should be of the best quality. A Mastiff puppy grows at an alarming rate (about 2 kilos/week, though they all differ), and needs to put on good boning, so good food fed correctly is the key to a happy and healthy dog.
• How big will it get? A Mastiff dog will be roughly the same size as a St. Bernard, heavier but shorter in the leg than a Great Dane. A bitch will normally be slightly smaller and lighter, but there are sometimes smallish dogs and large bitches. A full grown dog in good condition will weigh some 16 stone (224 pounds). It should be noted that the Mastiff holds the Guinness book of records for the heaviest dog in the world "Zorba de la-Susa" weighing in at 315 pounds.
• Do they need much exercise? Most Mastiffs prefer to lay about and watch you exercise, but nevertheless they do enjoy walks and being out and about with their owners. A Mastiff should be under control whenever out in a public place. It is irresponsible to allow a mastiff, whether young or old, to run about loose when they can well cause great distress to members of the public if suddenly approached by such a huge and lumbering dog. In some states of Australia it is also illegal not to have a dog on a lead unless in defined areas.
• Do they moult or shed their coat ? Most dogs tend to change their coat twice a year in Spring and Autumn, and a Mastiff is no exception. However, a Mastiff has quite short hair which is not such a problem as in the long haired breeds. A Daily brush and comb will keep the problem to a minimum. A good shampoo a couple of times a year helps to keep them sweet smelling, although most people prefer to shampoo their dogs more regularly. It should be noted that this is usually done outside, as trying to get a full grown Mastiff in to a bath can sometimes prove trying. Puppies should not be bathed until at least 2 months old.

• Do Mastiffs wander off ? Most Mastiffs love their home and will not go far, but it is wise to keep them within a properly fenced area. A bitch in season or a dog who gets the scent of a bitch in season are both likely to go seeking company. Most reputable breeders will normally ask if you have a fully fenced property.
• Are Mastiffs good guards ? While not like some of the true guarding dogs, a Mastiff will without any special training let you know that strangers are about. Their bark is more of a roar than a bark, and even if they tend to keep well clear of the intruders not many miscreants are likely to tempt such a large and impressive sounding dog.
• Are there any special health problems with a Mastiff ? The Mastiff is a very healthy animal and has no special weaknesses. Like many of the large and heavy breeds they can be affected by Hip Displasia (HD) and some have a tendency to stomach bloat although this is rare. These ailments can be treated except in severe cases of HD. A reputable breeder should be able to furnish you with a report showing the Hip Scores of the Sire and Dam. These state how good the hips are and are quite easy for a layman to read. If you are unsure you should contact a vet who will inform you of the suitability of these dogs as parents.

• Where should I buy a Mastiff ? Most important never buy from a pet shop or dealer. Go to the breeder direct and see the quality of their adults, and wait till the puppies are ready to view. All Mastiff clubs can direct you to breeders if you cannot locate one. Most breeders will welcome you but do make an appointment and keep to it. Do not expect to touch the puppies when they are very young they are to precious to chance a risk of infection. Be prepared to wait, Mastiffs are not common and you may find you have to wait some time for a litter to be born.

(Text taken from a pamphlet produced by the Mastiff Club of Victoria)

All Pictures on this page are Marstenmoor Mastiffs and permission should be gained before reusing.