Mastiff
English Mastiff, Old English Mastiff
The Mastiff was traditionally kept as a guard and military dog, although it was also used to hunt wolves and in pit contests. It its early days it fought in the Roman Colosseum against bulls, lions and bears. Today they are commonly kept as a companion, although their size alone can deter intruders.
Mastiff Standards
- AKC (Working)
- FCI (Group 2)
- KC (Working)
- UKC (Guardian)
- 27.5-30"
- 175-190 lbs
- extra large, heavy molosser
- small, v-shaped, hanging ears
- long tail forms slight curve
- straight, coarse, short coat
- apricot
- brindle
- fawn
- darker muzzle and ears
History of the Mastiff
The Mastiff is an old breed, possibly descended from the extinct Alaunt. Their name most likely is derived from the Anglo-Saxton word masty, which means 'powerful'. It was already present in Britain during the Roman invasion in 43 AD, and is thought to have been brought by Phoenician traders as early as 6th century BC. After WWII the breed was almost eliminated in its homeland, but was revived with imported stock. Today, although not rare, the Mastiff is still an uncommon breed.
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