English
Mastiff

Appearance

Because the race was recreated after World War II, it is characterized by large diversity of external appearance. Despite these differences, however, it is still possible to show the basic traits, which should be present in every English Mastiff. Average height of a female is 66cm, and male is min. 70cm. English Mastiff is a large, heavy dog. Average weight is 75kg and 100kg, for a female and a male respectively (with dogs occasionally reaching 120-130kg). Its coat is short and tightly adheres to the body. Three coat colors can be distinguished: apricot, fawn, and fawn-brown-gray. The muzzle, ears and nose must be black-rimmed. Small and delicate ears are placed on the edge of the skull so that they extend the cross-profile of the skull, and flatly adhere to the cheeks.

Temperament

Although this race, just like other moloses, was created as a combat breed, present-day mastiffs do not share the aggressiveness of their ancestors. The dog easily subordinates to its owner. As majority of big dogs, it is gentle and peaceful. This is an effect of a many-year breeding process, profiled to promote more domestic, cooperative disposition. However, one should still remember that a mastiff is a big, strong dog: if it is not taught early enough where its place in the hierarchy is, its taming in later time may pose quite a problem. English breeders value mastiff's intelligence. The dog learns easily and fast, and is rather obedient. It likes to please its owner. An English mastiff expects caress and closeness of people, especially in the early stage of life - otherwise it becomes timid and sad. It is not overexcitable or skittish, which allows to leave the dog alone at home. It needs a regular dose of exercise, but it doesn't have to be any kind of forceful physical training. In fact, a mastiff doesn't need any more exercise than other social dogs.

Care

Short coat enables to reduce caretaking to minimum. Occassional brushing will suffice, especially during the molting period. As in case of all dogs with long ears, it's important to pay close attention to the ears. One should regularly check if there is any dirt on the inner side of the ear, which can cause itching. Once for a while eyes should be cleaned with a special liquid aid.

Health

Mastiff is neither sickly or soft a dog. However, one should be exceptionally careful during the dog's puppy years, because mastiffs grow up fast (a one-year-old can reach as much as 80kg), and special attention should be paid to the dog's body figure. Moreover, during that time the dog should avoid extensive physical effort, as it is prone to sinews damage. English mastiff lifespan usually doesn't exceed eight to ten years.