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The mastiff is an ancient breed of dog.
A Brief History
Man from the earliest of time has recorded mastiffs and dogs of mastiff type. There is much Documented history about dogs of mastiff type throughout the ages. This type was refined and perpetuated, in order to assist the purposes they were bred for. Deep set eyes to protect them from the jaws of another, wide lower jaws and big powerful canine teeth to enable the big head greater holding power, and most noticeably the great size and substance giving them the power and strength to pull down large game unaided. Documented as fearsome and agile hunters considering their size, these large powerful dogs with short faces and deep bodies were kept, bred and known as the mastiff Bandoggee.
Mastiffs had many varied roles throughout history, Dogs of war, bear and lion baiting dogs and even draught animals. Their main role through out the ages was that of guardians of castles and large estates. The role of guardian is one they still perform today. Generally having a very strong sense of family circle and adoration of their human charges especially the Lady and children of the household. |
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Overview
Mastiffs require very light exercise and regular socialization with other dogs and people. Generally they have quite a soft nature despite their early origins and do not benefit from harsh training methods. They respond very well to basic obedience training, provided it is praise and reward type training.
Mastiffs are a superb and loyal companion. They are totally devoted to their owners and generally not aggressive toward strangers and strange dogs especially when they have had good grounding of early socialization. |
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They are a wonderful breed of dog to raise with a family and most mastiffs are generally good with children especially their own. Even so they should always be supervised especially around other peoples children. It is important for the good name and reputation of the breed that your mastiff is always under effective control in public. An important point to remember is mastiffs may often end up as a very large and expensive dog. Can you afford to feed vet, train and accommodate dogs possibly thirty-four inches at the shoulder weighing as much as one hundred and ten kilos. |
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| Last Update: 25/03/07 08:05 |
Views: 4362 |
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