11 Magnificent Mastiff Breeds for Big Dog Lovers

Mastiff breeds stand out in the canine world for their immense size and remarkably loyal nature. These gentle giants belong to a group of working dogs known as Molossers, which have ancient origins dating back thousands of years. For people who appreciate large dogs, Mastiffs offer an unparalleled combination of impressive stature and affectionate temperament that makes them cherished family companions.

While their size might initially appear intimidating, most Mastiff breeds are known for their patient, calm dispositions and deep bonds with their human families. Let’s explore 11 magnificent Mastiff breeds that capture the hearts of big dog enthusiasts worldwide.

1. Mastiff (English Mastiff)

The classic Mastiff, also known as the Old English Mastiff, stands as one of the most recognizable members of this canine group. These dogs are renowned for being big-boned and well-muscled with a loyal and patient disposition. Adult Mastiffs typically reach between 120–230 pounds, making them one of the largest Mastiff breeds.

Originating in England, the Mastiff’s impressive size made them natural guardians. Their service extended beyond protection, however, as these powerful dogs were put to work during both World War I and World War II pulling carts loaded with ammunition, according to the Mastiff Club of America. Today, the Mastiff has primarily transitioned to the role of beloved family pet.

These gentle giants stand 27.5 inches and up at the shoulder, with males commonly reaching 30 inches or more. Despite their formidable appearance, Mastiffs feature broad, wrinkled heads with kind, lovable expressions that endear them to their families. Their historical use as guardians continues in their watchful, protective nature toward loved ones.

2. Boerboel

The Boerboel (pronounced BOR-bul) hails from South Africa, which explains why these dogs are sometimes called South African Mastiffs. This athletic breed typically reaches up to 200 pounds, combining impressive size with agility and strength.

Boerboels require significant exercise to maintain their physical and mental wellbeing. Plan to provide at least one long walk daily, and don’t underestimate the importance of engaging training sessions to build a strong bond. This is particularly important given the breed’s independent nature, which necessitates consistent training from an early age.

Originally developed to guard homesteads in South Africa, the Boerboel combines protective instincts with family devotion. Their name derives from Dutch/Afrikaans words meaning “farmer’s dog,” reflecting their historical role protecting farms against predators.

3. Bullmastiff

The Bullmastiff represents a deliberate cross between the Mastiff and the now-extinct Old English Bulldog. Developed in England during the 19th century, these dogs were specifically bred to help gamekeepers protect estates from poachers.

Weighing between 100–130 pounds, Bullmastiffs are slightly smaller than some other Mastiff varieties but retain the powerful build and protective nature characteristic of the group. Their coat typically comes in fawn, red, or brindle colors, often featuring a black mask on the face.

Despite their history as working dogs, modern Bullmastiffs adapt well to family life. They form strong bonds with their families and are generally patient with children, though early socialization and training are essential to ensure they develop into well-mannered companions.

4. Neapolitan Mastiff

The Neapolitan Mastiff stands out even among Mastiff breeds for its distinctive appearance. These dogs feature abundant wrinkles and loose skin, particularly around the head and neck, giving them an unmistakable profile. Weighing between 110–150 pounds, Neapolitan Mastiffs combine substantial size with a unique aesthetic.

Originating in southern Italy, specifically the area around Naples (hence the name), these dogs have ancient roots potentially dating back to Roman times. They were traditionally used as property guardians and status symbols.

While devoted to their families, Neapolitan Mastiffs can be reserved with strangers. Their deliberate, slow-moving nature belies their vigilance—they remain alert to potential threats while maintaining a calm demeanor in familiar surroundings.

5. Cane Corso

The Cane Corso, sometimes called the Italian Mastiff, represents one of the more athletic members of the Mastiff family. Weighing between 90–120 pounds, they combine substantial size with agility and responsiveness that makes them versatile working dogs.

With origins in Italy, the Cane Corso served historically as property guardians, hunting companions, and farm workers. Their name derives from Latin terms reflecting their role as “guardian” or “protector.”

These intelligent dogs form strong bonds with their families and typically respond well to training. They require regular exercise to channel their energy appropriately and benefit from having jobs to do, whether formal work or household responsibilities.

6. Great Dane

While sometimes classified separately, the Great Dane is considered part of the Mastiff group by many cynologists. These elegant giants typically weigh between 110–175 pounds, with males often reaching the higher end of that range.

Despite their imposing size, Great Danes are often referred to as “gentle giants” due to their typically friendly, patient temperaments. Originating in Germany (despite the name suggesting Danish heritage), these dogs were developed for hunting boar and as estate guardians.

Modern Great Danes make devoted family companions, though their size requires consideration regarding living space and exercise needs. Their relatively short lifespan (typically 6-8 years) represents one of the challenges of loving these magnificent dogs.

7. Tibetan Mastiff

The Tibetan Mastiff stands as one of the most ancient and primitive Mastiff breeds, with a history stretching back thousands of years in the Himalayan mountains. Weighing between 70–150 pounds, these dogs feature a thick double coat designed to protect them from the harsh mountain climate of their homeland.

Traditionally used to guard livestock and property in Tibet, these dogs developed remarkable independence and territorial instincts. Modern Tibetan Mastiffs retain strong guardian tendencies and often display reserved behavior toward strangers while remaining devoted to their families.

Their distinctive lion-like mane and impressive presence have made them status symbols in some cultures, though prospective owners should recognize that their strong-willed nature requires experienced handling and consistent training.

8. Pyrenean Mastiff

The Pyrenean Mastiff originated in the mountains between Spain and France, where they protected livestock from predators like wolves and bears. These impressive dogs typically weigh between 120–220 pounds, with males reaching the higher end of that range.

Despite their size and protective nature, Pyrenean Mastiffs are known for their gentle disposition, particularly with family members and livestock under their care. Their thick white coat, often with markings in various colors, helped them blend with sheep flocks and withstand mountain weather.

These dogs remain relatively rare outside their homeland, where they continue to work as guardian dogs. Their calm, measured approach to protection makes them effective guardians that assess situations before acting.

9. Spanish Mastiff

The Spanish Mastiff was originally bred to keep livestock safe from large predators, developing into a substantial guardian weighing between 140–200 pounds. While similar in appearance to the Pyrenean Mastiff, the Spanish Mastiff features a short, thick coat that comes in a wider range of colors including yellow, red, black, and fawn, sometimes displaying a brindle pattern.

True to their guardian heritage, Spanish Mastiffs typically maintain a gentle demeanor around trusted humans but may appear aloof or reserved with strangers. Their protective instincts require proper socialization to ensure appropriate responses to various situations.

Despite their imposing size, these dogs generally move with deliberate, measured steps that conserve energy—an adaptation from their traditional role accompanying slow-moving flocks over rugged terrain.

10. Dogue de Bordeaux

The Dogue de Bordeaux, sometimes called the French Mastiff, represents one of the oldest French dog breeds. Their distinctive features include a massive head—proportionally the largest of any canine—and a solid, muscular body weighing between 99–110 pounds.

These dogs typically display a short, fine coat in various shades of fawn, from light to dark red. Their deeply wrinkled face gives them a perpetually concerned expression that belies their typically calm temperament.

With a history potentially including roles as guard dogs, hunting companions, and even fighting dogs, modern Dogue de Bordeaux specimens have transitioned primarily to family companions. They form strong bonds with their people and often display protective tendencies toward their households.

11. Tosa Inu

The Tosa Inu, sometimes called the Japanese Mastiff, represents Japan’s contribution to the Mastiff family. Developed in Kochi Prefecture during the 19th century, these dogs typically weigh between 100–200 pounds, with males often substantially larger than females.

Created through crossbreeding native Japanese dogs with various Western breeds including Bulldogs, Great Danes, and traditional Mastiffs, the Tosa was developed primarily for dogfighting—a practice that, while controversial today, held cultural significance in historical Japan.

Modern Tosa Inus typically display calm, dignified temperaments when properly raised and trained. Their strong-willed nature and protective instincts require experienced handling and thorough socialization from an early age.

Caring for Mastiff Breeds

While each Mastiff breed has unique characteristics, several considerations apply across this group of dogs:

• Health Considerations: Like other giant-breed dogs, Mastiffs generally have shorter lifespans than smaller breeds, typically ranging from 6-10 years. Common health concerns include hip and elbow dysplasia, heart conditions, and bloat. Responsible breeders screen for these conditions to produce healthier puppies.
• Nutrition: Proper nutrition is crucial for supporting healthy growth in Mastiff puppies. Most benefit from large-breed specific formulas that help manage their growth rate. Adult Mastiffs generally do well on AAFCO-approved foods formulated for large breeds. Consult your veterinarian for recommendations specific to your dog.
• Exercise: Despite their size, most Mastiff breeds don’t require excessive exercise. Regular, moderate activity helps maintain their health without placing undue stress on developing joints, particularly in puppies and adolescents.
• Training: Early, consistent training is essential for all Mastiff breeds. Their size means that behaviors that might be merely annoying in smaller dogs can become problematic or even dangerous in these giants. Positive reinforcement methods typically work best with these sensitive dogs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Are Mastiffs good family dogs?

A: Yes, most Mastiff breeds make excellent family companions. They typically display gentle, patient temperaments with family members, including children. However, their large size necessitates supervision around small children to prevent accidental injuries.

Q: How much do Mastiffs eat?

A: Adult Mastiffs typically consume 6-8 cups of high-quality dog food daily, divided into two meals. The exact amount varies based on the dog’s size, age, activity level, and metabolism.

Q: Do Mastiffs drool a lot?

A: Yes, most Mastiff breeds are known for drooling, especially after drinking water or when anticipating food. Some individuals drool more than others, but keeping a “drool towel” handy becomes second nature for most Mastiff owners.

Q: Are Mastiffs difficult to train?

A: Mastiffs can be independent-minded, but most are intelligent and eager to please their people. Consistent, positive training methods started early typically yield good results. Their sensitivity means harsh methods are counterproductive.

Q: How much exercise do Mastiff breeds need?

A: Most adult Mastiffs benefit from 30-60 minutes of moderate exercise daily, often divided into shorter sessions. Young Mastiffs (under 18 months) should avoid high-impact activities to protect developing joints.

Author

Anjali Sayee

 

Anjali is an Associate Editor at StyleCraze with 7 years of experience specializing in hairstyles, hair care, and skin care. She has authored over 300 articles and offers expert advice on hair styling techniques, effective skin care routines, and tips for maintaining healthy hair and skin.

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