As one of the largest and heaviest dog breeds , it’s no surprise the Mastiff has a colossal appetite. They require a lot of wet and dry food, but the amount varies depending on their age, lifestyle and activity level.

Mastiffs benefit from a nutritious and balanced diet, including minerals and vitamins to support their joints. Berries and certain veggies can also work for their diet, but it’s important to know what dogs can and can’t eat to avoid giving them an upset tummy – or worse. 

Mastiff pups should be fed large-breed puppy food, then switched to an adult formula once they reach 18-24 months old . Be careful to not overfeed them as Mastiffs are prone to bloating and stomach problems. Small and frequent meals work best. Always check the food packaging for feeding guidelines if you’re unsure.

Mastiffs have a short, dense coat that’s easy to groom. A quick brush every few days or once a week should suffice. This breed tends to heavily shed once or twice a year, so you’ll need to brush more frequently with a strong, toothed comb. This is especially important before giving them a bath.

One of the Mastiff’s most prominent features is the deep wrinkles around their head, eyes and muzzle. This extra, loose skin should be regularly inspected and cleaned. And don’t forget their drool! Always keep a cloth nearby to clean their face and jowls.

Mastiff dogs were bred to be guardians of the home, so their exercise needs are lower than other breeds. They make the perfect couch potatoes and they love to relax and snooze indoors. 

This breed requires at least one hour of exercise per day  and will enjoy leisurely walks or gentle playtime. They have a tendency to plop down if they’re tired or overheated, so time their exercise appropriately. Avoid overexercising Mastiffs when they’re young – this can strain the muscles and joints and lead to skeletal problems.

Mastiffs are devoted to their owners and eager to please, which extends to their training. They’re quick learners but can lose attention and focus easily. In that case, they might lie down and snooze.

Early training and socialisation for your Mastiff dog is a must. And like any giant-breed dog, they should be taught to walk on a lead and harness. Mastiffs respond well to praise and positive reinforcement. They’re also big on eye contact and can read body language and expressions well. 

Keep training sessions short and fun with activities like search and rescue, tracking and pulling carts. Your Mastiff will thank you for it, and maybe even sit on your lap. 

No, Mastiffs are easily trained due to their obedience and eagerness to please. However, they can get bored easily, so repetitive training methods may not work as well. Short and fun training sessions with positive reinforcement can keep your Mastiff engaged.

Despite their appearance, Mastiffs are gentle and noble dogs. They’re devoted to their owners and love being part of a family, making them a great addition to the home. They may not realise their own size and strength, so playtime with children must be supervised. 

Mastiffs are prone to certain health issues that are typically inherited. They’re classified as ‘Category Three’ by The Kennel Club, which highlights their heath conditions caused by breeding.