Mastiff

A rapidly growing giant breed needs careful nutrition through puppyhood and up to about 2 years of age, when slow, steady growth is the goal. Fed a densely caloric diet without the right calcium-to-phosphorus ratio, Mastiff puppies and young adults are more prone to skeletal disorders.

Many breed experts suggest puppies start on an adult formulation with protein no higher than 26 percent and a calcium-to-phosphorus ratio of about 1.2 to 1. Scheduled meals work better than free-feeding, which can lead to overeating and excess weight. Because Mastiffs are large, they eat a lot, so budget accordingly.

As a deep-chested breed, the Mastiff is vulnerable to gastric dilatation and volvulus, or bloat. A few feeding habits lower the risk:

• Feed two to three meals a day rather than one large meal.
• Restrict exercise for an hour before and after meals.
• Skip elevated bowls and use slow-feeder bowls instead.

How much to feed depends on the individual dog, so talk with your veterinarian about your Mastiff's diet and needs. For dogs with joint-related growth issues such as hip dysplasia, glucosamine and chondroitin supplements can support joint health, and omega-3s support the joints, skin, and coat. Always check with your veterinarian before adding anything new, including supplements.

The Mastiff's short, dense double coat is easy to care for and usually needs only a quick brushing every few days. This is a moderate shedder, and weekly brushing with a grooming mitt or bristle brush helps keep loose hair in check. During the heavier shed once or twice a year, more frequent sessions with a strong toothed comb help remove dead hair. A full bath is only needed every few months.

Mastiffs drool, so most owners keep a cloth handy to wipe the face and clothing. The deep facial folds and jowls need attention too: wipe them daily with a pet-safe wipe or a damp paper towel to clear away moisture and debris, since folds that stay damp can lead to skin infections.

Check and clean the ears regularly with a veterinary-approved cleanser, and again after any time in water such as a bath or swim. The eyes benefit from routine cleaning to help limit tear stains, and the nails should be kept trimmed short so they do not cause discomfort or affect movement.

Bred to guard hearth and home, Mastiffs have comparatively low exercise needs and can be real couch potatoes that live happily even in an apartment. They still benefit, in body and mind, from free play and a daily walk of a mile or two for an adult. Regular activity supports their health and overall happiness.

Take care not to overtax growing puppies and young adults. Avoid running up and down stairs, jumping from heights, and long walks; start with no more than half a block for a 2- to 3-month-old puppy. Mastiffs also tend to plop down when tired or overheated, so a good rule is not to walk one farther than you can carry it back.

For dogs that want a job, sports like agility, carting, rally, competitive obedience, weight pull, and tracking are all good options for staying active and engaged.

Mastiffs need ample living space, so a tiny apartment is a poor fit. They also eat far more than a smaller breed, which raises household costs.

Obedience training and early socialization are musts. Mastiffs are responsive to praise and reward-based training. Loud commands or forceful handling tend to trigger a stubborn streak, and raising your voice can easily hurt their feelings.

The repetition of a typical class bores them fast, at which point one may lie down and start snoring. Make eye contact, since they read expressions and body language well, and run several short, varied sessions through the day to hold their focus. Do not hesitate to bring in a certified trainer if you need help with the basics.

Because the breed was developed as a guardian over thousands of years, a Mastiff can be reserved around strangers and will spring into action at a perceived threat, even the passing mail carrier. Socializing puppies with people and other pets early helps them learn that new faces are nothing to worry about.

Well-trained, well-socialized Mastiffs are gentle giants that do well with other animals, especially pets introduced during puppyhood, and they are gentle and affectionate with their family. They suit children who understand how to interact with dogs, though a home without very young kids may fit better, since an accidental bump from such an enormous dog (which is sometimes unaware of its own size) can knock a small child down.