English mastiff

English mastiff

 

Size: 79-86 kg (174-190lb), 70-76cm (28-30in)

Grooming: Average

Training: Time-consuming

Colors: Brindle, fawn, silver, brindle or fawn and white

 

Mastiffs were being bred in Britain over 2000 years ago and were prized exports to the Roman Empire, where they were used in both war and blood sport. The word “mastiff” probably derivers from the old Anglosaxon word “masty” meaning powerful. English court documents from 500 years ago record the purchase of a “masty dogge”.This giant canine needs exceptionally experienced handling, if only because of its size.