About the Breed

The Mastiff is confident, dignified, and very gentle-natured. Mastiffs rarely bark, but they are not fond of strangers and will defend their territory and family when necessary, making excellent guard dogs. The Mastiff tends to drool.

The Mastiff is good with children, and gets along well with other dogs and household pets if properly socialized. In the words of the 1800 Cynographia Britannica ‘What the lion is to the cat, the Mastiff is to the dog. The noblest of the family, he stands alone, all others sinking before him...I have seen him down with his paw the Terrier or cur that has bit him, without offering further injury. In a family he will permit the children to play with him and will suffer all their little pranks without offence.’

In spite of its large size, the adult Mastiff has only an average need for exercise. It enjoys walks or play in a large fenced-in yard. Puppy Mastiffs should not be over exercised—the Mastiff requires all of its energy to grow strong bones and put on weight. Due to their large size and space requirements, Mastiffs are not recommended for small apartments.