Facts about American Mastiff Puppies

Fredericka's goal was to develop a dog that had the size, temperament, and the appearance of the Mastiff, but with fewer health problems, and much dryer mouth than other mastiff breeds. She accomplished that by crossing the English Mastiff with the Anatolian Mastiff during the early development of the breed.

The breed name is trademarked and can only be applied to the dogs whose roots can be traced to the Flying W Farms original line.

Because the American Mastiff is such a new breed, it is ineligible for registration in most breed registries. As of 2008, it was recognized only by the Continental Kennel Club.

Physical Characteristics of American Mastiff Puppies

This breed is very similar in appearance to the English Mastiff.

It's a powerful dog with a massive body, deep chest, and muscular neck and back. The body is slightly longer than it is tall. It has a broad head with a medium-sized muzzle and drop down ears. The eyes are brown or amber, the darker the better. The tail is long, wide at the root, tapering at the end.

It has a short and smooth coat that comes in fawn, apricot, or brindle with fawn or apricot as the background colors. The breed standard states that all dogs must exhibit the black mask.

This breed doesn't drool as much as other mastiffs.

Temperament

The American Mastiff is an intelligent, loyal, and gentle dog.

Like all mastiffs, this breed has a very strong protective instinct. Another trait it has in common with other mastiffs is its lack of aggression.

It's devoted and loving to its family, especially children, but wary with strangers. While not aggressive, it will defend its family when there is a threat.

Like all large breeds, the American Mastiff should be socialized while it's still young.

How else would I describe these dogs?

They are dignified, calm, confident, and good tempered. In short, they are "gentle giants"!

Best Owner / Living Conditions

This is a very adaptable dog and, despite its large size, it can adjust to an apartment lifestyle.

It requires a confident owner with strong leadership skills. The objective is to establish a pack order where every family member is higher up in the hierarchy than the dog.

On the other hand, this breed does not require an active owner and is perfect for couch potatoes!

Some American Mastiff breeders will interview prospective owners to make sure this is the right breed for them.

Activity and Exercise

American Mastiffs are not very active, especially indoors, and don't require a lot of exercise.

Younger puppies, because they grow very fast, tend to sleep a lot. As they grow older, they become a little more active.

Still, some moderate exercise is required.

Take your pet for one or two walks every day.

Grooming

These dogs are average shedders.

Brush once or twice a week with a firm bristle brush. Wipe over with a towel for a gleaming finish. Bathe only when absolutely necessary.

Health Concerns

Like all dog breeds, the American Mastiff is susceptible to complications caused by parasites such as dog ticks, fleas, and puppy worms, including tapeworms, roundworms, and heartworms.

Other than that, this is a very healthy breed without major health concerns common to other large breeds. For more information about dog diseases and health, visit dog health problems.

To reduce the risk of health problems, buy only from reputable American Mastiff breeders (visit dog breeders to learn how to identify responsible dog breeders).

No matter how small the risk of health problems is, any puppy may get sick or injured. Many health problems will require an immediate attention from your Vet, but there are many others that will not, and you may handle them on your own.

To save time and money, learn how to diagnose and treat dog health problems that don't require your Vet's attention.

Life Expectancy

The average life expectancy for healthy American Mastiff puppies is between 10 and 12 years.

Did you ever consider adopting your next pet?

If this is the breed you are interested in, and adoption appeals to you, consider contacting your local American Mastiff rescue. There are thousands of pets waiting for a loving home and, yes, it's possible to adopt a purebred dog.