Dog Breeds : American Mastiff

American Mastiff
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.

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.

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.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.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.

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. 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. Usually even a small fenced yard will do just fine. 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.

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 you see in other large breeds.

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

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.