Among guard dogs, the English mastiff is definitely in the top 10, perhaps in the top two or three. His appearance alone will make sure that anyone who comes across the mastiff will take care before coming near him.

The English mastiff breed is powerfully built; its build can only be described as "massive." In fact, the mastiff is the heaviest dog in the world. This is even reflected in the name, which probably comes from the Anglo-Saxon word for powerful: - "masty."

Descended from ancient breeds the Alaunt and the Molosser, the mastiff is recognized as the oldest breed of British dog. (And sometimes, his bearing reflects this.)

It's perhaps not surprising that this massive dog was used as early as six B.C. for various fighting venues. He was a central part of many legendary bloodsports, including bullbaiting, bearbaiting, and lion baiting, as well as dog fighting.

Today, the English mastiff breed mingles dignity, grandeur and courage. To those who don't quite understand the mastiff, it seems to present somewhat of a paradox. It is affectionate, calm and loyal to its family, but fierce, fearless, ferocious and tenacious when necessary.

As stunning evidence of this, an English Mastiff instinctually positions himself between his owner and a stranger when an unknown person approaches the family's "territory."

If the approaching stranger does not show appropriate respect and restraint, the mastiff may swiftly defend as necessary. Now perhaps you see why he is ranked as among the top 10 guard dogs in history!

For all his fierceness, the English Mastiff is incredibly gentle with children.

The English mastiff is an imposing figure as a canine. Most mastiffs stand about 30 inches tall at the shoulder if male and 27.5 inches at the shoulder if female. As to weight, males weigh between 160 to 230 pounds, while slightly smaller females usually weigh in at between 140 and 190 pounds or more.

As with most breeds of dogs, the English mastiff, too, can have some health problems specific to its breed. Among these are bloating and hip dysplasia, as well as obesity. Both weight gain and bloating can be managed if you feed your dog two or three small meals a day. And as adored as this dog can be, there are still many English mastiff rescues to be had.

Another health problem the English mastiff is prone to is bone cancer. The mastiff may also be prone to developing kidney stones.

If healthy, an English mastiff will live to be between nine and 11 years old. His diet must be good and he must get plenty of exercise. However, he may have to be gently prodded to exercise. Just as with many of we "human couch potatoes," mastiffs, too, can be a bit lazy when it comes to physical activity. You'll probably find that your dog is quite comfortable simply lounging in the living room instead of running outside with the children or walking through the park with you.

As for grooming, brush your English mastiff daily to get rid of dust, dead hair and other debris that may tend to hide in his coat. If you don't do this, unfortunately, your beloved dog may begin to smell.

Another advantage to daily brushing involves skin problems. The chances of developing any concerns dealing with the Mastiff's skin are far less if you make it a habit to brush him regularly.

Instead of using a regular brush on your dog, though, consider using something called a "dog glove." This device was developed specifically for shorthaired dogs such as the mastiff. Your dog will enjoy this experience is much as you do, and it will allow you to bond with him.

Your mastiff has a huge body, true, but his heart is also very large. He would love to give it to you, for the rest of his life.

Nick Carpenter is a mastiff lover and wants to help you. Everything you want to ktoday about raising & caring for your English Mastiff is revealed. Come find out the right way to care for your mastiff today.