JustJo
05-10-2005, 07:39 PM
This week's Dog Du Semaine is another of my favorite breeds...the Mastiff. Who can resist these guys?? They are the ancestors of many breeds, including the Great Dane. They are believed to have been around as early as 6th century BC. They were used by the Romans as gladiators in their bloody sports. They served as village guardians in England as protectors from wolves. These guys get HUGE - 140 to over 200 lbs. If bred well for temperament, they are good natured Gentle Giants. Like a well bred Great Dane, they do not make great watchdogs other than the fact that their size will intimidate any intruder. Rather than attacking, the mastiff is more known to just back someone into a corner and "hold" them there. As adults they are couch potatoes, they would not make good jogging partners, but daily walks (whether they want to or not) are needed to keep mastiffs in shape. Mastiffs are intelligent and dignified and if socialized as puppies will get along with other animals, although some mastiff lines are known for not getting along with the same sex. They are very needy (like Great Danes!!) and need a LOT of companionship and loving attention. They make excellent family dogs but because of their size the breed is not recommended for very small children. Mastiffs DROOL, SLOBBER, and SNORE LOUDLY so if you don't like that this is NOT the breed for you. They are also prone to bloat, gastric torsion, and bone/joint issues so correct diet and exercise is very important for this breed. The are not long-lived just like a lot of the giant breeds.
Here is Pauly (13 months old):
http://photos5.flickr.com/6949712_92e42aca7b.jpg
http://photos5.flickr.com/6948586_af57db581d.jpg
Here is Pauly (13 months old):
http://photos5.flickr.com/6949712_92e42aca7b.jpg
http://photos5.flickr.com/6948586_af57db581d.jpg