English Mastiff

A Mastiff can get through 25 to 35 kg of dry food a month, so food is one of the biggest regular costs. The exact amount depends on the product's energy content and on the dog's size and activity. Remember that vet medicines, worming and flea treatments are all dosed by weight, so every routine treatment costs several times more than it would for a medium dog.

A Mastiff guards mainly by presence. It will usually place itself between its family and a stranger, watch quietly, and bark only when something seems wrong. Most accept visitors once introduced. The breed should never be trained to bite or encouraged to be suspicious; a dog of this weight needs confidence and good manners far more than extra protectiveness.

Loose lips and heavy jowls let saliva pool and then escape when the dog shakes its head, drinks or smells food. It is normal for the breed and cannot be trained away. Owners keep towels in several rooms and wipe the face after meals and drinks. A sudden increase in drooling together with restlessness or a swollen belly is different and needs a vet immediately.

Surprisingly, a calm adult Mastiff can cope in a modest space because it sleeps so much. What matters more is easy access: no long flights of stairs, room to turn around, and somewhere nearby to walk. Puppies are harder in small homes because of their size, chewing and clumsiness. A car or van big enough for vet trips is essential.

The Bullmastiff was developed in the 19th century by crossing Mastiffs with Bulldogs to catch poachers on English estates. It is smaller, usually 41 to 59 kg, more agile and often more energetic and territorial. The English Mastiff is much larger and generally more laid-back. Both need early socialization and careful management of their guarding instincts.