American Mastiff

Infobox Dogbreed


name = American Mastiff
country = United States|
Continental Kennel Club = Standards Below Flying W CKC American Mastiff is a term that refers to a molosser-type dog that is a cross between and English Mastiff and an Anatolian Mastiff dog. They are recognized by the Continental Kennel Club. [cite web|title=American Mastiff|publisher=Continental Kennel Club|url=http://www.continentalkennelclub.com/Ads.aspx?BreedNum=18|accessdate=2008-06-03] They are not recognized by the American Kennel Club or the principal kennel club of any other nation.

General

In an attempt to address issues of hip displasia, drooling, and a short lifespan, Fredericka Wagner of Flying W Farms crossed the English Mastiff with an Anatolian Mastiff. The result was the American Mastiff. The new breed looks very similar to the English Mastiff, and is said to drool less. This line is relatively new, so it is ineligible for registration in most breed registries. Registries with less stringent requirements may recognize a new breed with recent history, such as the Continental Kennel Club's recognition of the line in 2000. American Mastiffs were bred to be family dogs, not show dogs. There are 10 authorized breeders in North America which comprise the American Mastiff Breeders Council (AMBC)and whose dogs' bloodlines can be traced exclusively back to Flying W Farms. This is not the same as a Panja, which has lines of Pitbull and Rottweiler.

Unique Characteristics of the American Mastiff

The American Mastiff is a very unique dog, and well-beloved by their owners. They have some very distinct features. The American Mastiff dogs develop in a variety of colors including fawn, brindle and even apricot. Most puppies are born dark in color and tend to lighten up as they get older. Some hang onto their darker color while others actually become a very light fawn color by the time they turn one year old. In this breed of Mastiff dog, white markings on their chin or nose, and chest and feet are acceptable. They are generally calm and quiet dogs. They are loyal and loving dogs who are not usually aggressive unless they need to protect their masters.

Though you would not think so at first glance, the American Mastiff is very good with children and makes a great family dog. They are, again, not known for being aggressive unless they are in a circumstance where their family, and their family's children, are threatened. They will become intimidating defenders in this case, and even courageous. They are loyal to their owners, and are gentle companions, patient and loving, especially with children.

The males can weigh between 160 and 200 pounds. The females range from 140-180 pounds. And their height usually ranges from 28 to 36 inches. Because they are so large, they need to be handled by an owner who can be firm and strong in their leadership.

Even though American Mastiff dogs are of the largest breeds, they don't tend to be plagued by many of the health problems that are common in other larger breeds. In fact, they are generally healthy and happy dogs. And, contrary to some other large breeds, this breed of Mastiff dog will get along perfectly well in an apartment as long as they are exercised daily. This can be a daily walk or short run. Usually even a small fenced yard will do just fine as they tend to be a little on the lazy side as they get older.

Though they probably wouldn't choose to exercise daily, a steady routine will keep them more fit and happier. It is good for their mental and physical health to be out and walking regularly. And, of course, a leashed walk in public is best. The American Mastiff generally lives 10 to 12 years.

Their grooming is easy due to their short-haired and smooth coat. They can easily be shampooed and shined by drying them after bathing, then brushing their coat with a brush with firm bristles. Though they do shed, it is average, not out of control.

This dog breed is not for everyone, but for the right owner and family, they are loving and loveable companions, which can be surprisingly docile and gentle. [ [http://www.americanmastifffamily.com The American Mastiff Family Website and Forum] ]

Description

The head should be wide, heavy and rectangular in shape with high-set, rounded ears. A medium-sized muzzle should be well-proportioned to the rest of the head. The neck should be powerful with a slight arch, leading to a straight, muscular back. The chest should be deep, broad and well-rounded. Forelegs should be strong, straight and set well apart, while the hind legs should be wide and parallel. The dog should be 28 to 34 inches at the shoulder, and females should weigh between 140 and 180 pounds while males should weigh between 160 and 200 pounds. [ [http://www.americanmastiffbreederscouncil.com American Mastiff Breeders Council ] ] American Mastiff puppies are usually dark in color; however, as they mature their color tends to lighten. Common American Mastiff colors are fawn, apricot and brindle. [ [http://www.americanmastiff.us The American Mastiff] ] The dog should have a temperament that is loving and devoted to its family, especially children. A loyal and calm dog, it should be non-aggressive except when its family is threatened. In those instances they become fierce and courageous guard dogs.

Temperament

The American Mastiff love children and are totally devoted to their families. Dignity rather than gaiety; quiet, calm, loving and loyal. Protective, but not aggressive; they are non-aggressive except in those instances when their family, especially the children, are threatened. In those instances they become courageous defenders. They are wise, kind and gentle, patient and understanding, very loving with their own people, neither shy nor vicious, they are loyal, and devoted. Since these dogs are of the Mastiff type and grow to be very large, this breed needs an owner who knows how to display strong leadership.

Height, Weight

Height: 28-36 inches (65-91 cm.)Weight: Males 160 to over 200 pounds (72-90 kg.) Females 140-180 pounds (63-81 kg.)

Health Problems

American Mastiffs tend to be healthy happy dogs with fewer reported incidents of many of the health problems generally seen in other large breeds.

Living Conditions

American Mastiffs do just fine in an apartment with daily exercise. As they grow older and tend to become a little lazy, a daily walk will do, or a run in a fenced in yard (a small yard will do). They are relatively inactive indoors ("couch potatoes").

Exercise

Mastiffs are inclined to be lazy but they will keep fitter and happier if given regular exercise. Like all dogs, the American Mastiff should be taken on daily regular walks to help release it's mental and physical energy. It's in a dogs nature to walk. They should always be leashed in public. The American Mastiff can do acceptably in a small household or apartment if he is sufficiently exercised. They are comparatively inactive indoors, so their ideal living conditions would consist of at least a small yard. The American Mastiff has a propensity to become lazy, but they will have a better quality of life if exercise is initiated.

Health

American Mastiffs typically live for 10 to 12 years.