Let’s delve deep into the mystical world of Mastiff, the gentle giant of the fur babies. Don’t be swayed by their imposing size and muscular body. The Mastiffs are known for their kind heart and humble soul.
Have you heard about Zorba de la-Susa, who once held the Guinness World Record for the heaviest and longest dog? That’s right. Zorba was an English Mastiff and weighed a whopping 343 pounds! That’s almost as much as a baby elephant weighs! You might now be wondering if this gentle giant is as difficult to handle as their size suggests. Let’s find out together.
Firstly, Mastiffs, due to their size, require space. A lot of it. If you’re living in a tiny studio apartment or considering using a small crate, it’s going to be a hard no. These dogs thrive in spacious homes with yards where they can romp around to their heart’s content.
However, don’t think of them as overly energetic. Instead of rushing around the block like speedy greyhounds, these pups are more inclined towards easy-going strolls and lounging. And trust us when we say this, Mastiffs can be quite the laid back couch potatoes!
One of the mastiff’s most adorable traits is their goofiness. They love to entertain! But, the downside is that they can be as headstrong as a mule. Training is crucial from an early age to harness the Mastiff’s strong will in a positive direction. Positive reinforcement works wonders. Remember, these dogs are intelligent, and with proper guidance, it won’t take them long to grasp new tricks and commands.
Now, you might have heard that Mastiffs have a tendency to drool. Ok, that might be putting it mildly. They drool. A lot. So if you’re fastidious about cleanliness, brace yourself. You’re going to find slobber on your furniture, your clothes, heck, even on your ceiling!
On the brighter side, Mastiffs are adept guards without being overly aggressive. Their protective instinct is strong, making them perfect for families. But that doesn’t mean you can leave your small pets unsupervised around them. Mastiffs have a strong prey instinct and might not adjust well with other smaller canine or feline members of your family. Monitor their interactions and take steps to properly socialize your Mastiff with smaller creature siblings in your household.
When we talk about food, boy, Mastiffs are big eaters! Those big muscles and bones? They need nutrients to maintain. Feed them premium, nutritious food but be vigilant about overeating. Mastiffs gain weight easily, which can lead to health issues like hip dysplasia or arthritis.
Healthcare expenses will definitely be on the higher end for Mastiffs, given their size and certain genetic issues. Regular vet check-ups, recommended vaccinations and quick treatment on spotting any health anomalies can keep your Mastiff healthier and happier in the long run.
You might be feeling overwhelmed with this information. But remember, ownership of all breeds comes with its unique set of challenges. So, is a Mastiff a difficult dog? It solely depends on your perspective and your readiness to accommodate their needs. If you’re passionate about these cute giants and committed to their wellbeing, you could find the experience fulfilling.
Lastly, and most importantly, be prepared for a whole lot of love. Mastiffs are affectionate, understanding, patient, and they form strong bonds with their families. Playing with them, walking with them, or simply lounging around will make you understand why Mastiffs are such adored pets!
Remember, a mastiff might be a giant. But so, is its heart. If you’re willing to accommodate for your Mastiff’s unique needs, you won’t find a more loving, protective, and entertaining furry companion. Discover the joy of living with a Mastiff, and we’re sure you will have interesting tales to tell!
