Caring for Your English Mastiff: Key Health Concerns and Solutions

Introduction

The English Mastiff, also known as the Old English Mastiff or Bullmastiff when bred in England during the 19th century, is an immense canine that boasts a rich history dating back centuries. Originally bred for guarding large estates and tracking poachers, this powerful breed has evolved into a beloved family pet, despite its massive size and strength.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the specifics of caring for an English Mastiff, addressing their unique needs, behavioral traits, grooming requirements, and other crucial aspects to consider as a potential owner. Whether you're a seasoned dog enthusiast or new to the world of canine companionship, understanding the nuances of English Mastiff care is essential in providing a happy, healthy life for this majestic breed.

General Care

When it comes to caring for an English Mastiff, attention to detail and a deep understanding of their specific needs are paramount. Due to their immense size, these dogs require an enormous amount of food, space, and exercise.

Exercise Needs

An adult English Mastiff can weigh between 130-230 pounds (59-104 kg), with heights reaching up to 30 inches (76 cm) or more at the shoulder. As such, they need ample space to roam and play, ideally in a spacious yard or park where they can stretch their legs.

• Weekly outdoor activities: 1-2 hours of walking, exploring, and exercising should suffice, but always keep in mind their age and physical limitations.
• Indoor activities: Playtime with indoor toys, hide-and-seek games, and mental stimulation exercises are equally essential to prevent boredom and overeating from sedentary habits.

Feeding Requirements

In terms of nutrition, the dietary needs of English Mastiffs lean towards massive amounts. A high-quality, nutrient-rich dog food that provides 4000-6000 calories per day is recommended for optimal health.

• Meal frequency: Feed your English Mastiff twice a day until they reach adulthood (usually around one year), then switch to once daily.
• Consider weight loss support: Regular weigh-ins and monitoring of eating habits are crucial, as excessive weight can lead to joint problems, skin issues, or even more serious health complications.
• Maintain regular feeding hours: Always adhere to established mealtimes to prevent snacking between meals.

Environmental Considerations

English Mastiffs thrive in spacious environments with minimal separation from their human family. Due to the immense size of their living quarters, homeowners should ensure their home can handle these demands.

• Minimum living space requirements: Two bedrooms within a separate unit is ideal; however, as long as adequate open areas exist for them, it may not always be necessary.
• Noise concerns: With English Mastiff living in close proximity to you and your neighbors, noise generation must be acknowledged.
• Pet grooming sessions must take place indoors or have good access.

English Mastiff Issues

Regrettably, despite their loving side and the devoted role as a loyal companion, several health issues specific to the breed often present a cause for concern:

Chronic hip dysplasia

Due to the strain placed on joints from excessive weight at an early age, joint troubles may emerge. To prevent this or control the disease, exercise in moderation and ensure they eat balanced diets rich with nutrients beneficial for musculoskeletal growth.

Intermittent allergic reactions

The sensitivity threshold of these English Mastiff dogs is particularly high; avoid potential allergens such as dust mites to some insect bites that might trigger sudden reaction episodes during play.

Wart and skin irritant allergies

While relatively common, all pet dog breeds can develop skin irritation problems occasionally. A well-designed diet balanced with vitamins, along with anti-septic creams or lotions for topical solution options may help minimize the potential damage risk posed by such conditions.

Feeding a English Mastiff

With their need for massive amounts of calories in mind, meal frequency, nutrient-dense diets and feeding your dog food quality rich enough are crucial factors in care of all breeds and this particular case is not an exception.

Incorporate high-calorie recipes into meals to keep fat loss levels low, considering it may take a period of a year for your new puppy pet or even longer depending on the breed size before reaching healthy weight target with good quality food you serve to English Mastiffs pets regularly

Tips on Food and Diet:

• Feed in portions that match their growing development stage.
• Maintain regular dietary habits - including treats, snacks between meals. Avoid mixing with unhealthy leftovers as a meal choice
• Provide necessary fluids and monitor body heat during warmer periods

English Mastiffs should eat about 4 – 5 kilograms (8-11 lbs) per day based on age. Use feeding schedule guidelines below:

Age-based Feeding Guide:

• Puppy Stage: Feed your English Mastiff puppy according to the recommended growth plan provided by their breeder.
• Adulthood up until one year of age as previously stated - a regular amount of food is required which will increase in terms weight.