Raising a mastiff is much the same as caring for any other breed of dog. You should take care to begin training your mastiff puppy as soon as you can, as well as develop a good exercise routine. Mastiff training can be a bit difficult if you aren’t persistent. Your mastiff will need a good diet and regular grooming to ensure he remains in good health. Be aware when taking in a mastiff that they have a tendency to want to lie around with very little desire to exercise. You will need to have a determined attitude toward exercising your mastiff.
You can start your exercise routine by walking your mastiff at least twice a day, to keep his naturally large build from becoming overweight. If you have a private yard, letting your mastiff walk around for a bit is an excellent source of exercise. If you live in an apartment or other area without a private yard, it is recommended that you walk your mastiff twice a day in the nearest dog-friendly area.
Mastiff puppies need a good and regular diet to help them stay healthy. After they have been separated from their mothers they should be fed about four times a day to help them to grow strong and healthy. As your mastiff gets older you can start to lower the amount of food you give him on a daily basis to twice a day. Make sure to give your mastiff a balanced diet of meat and dried food.
Grooming a mastiff is generally a very easy process, so you won’t have to spend hours a week combing through fur. They are naturally shedders (watch out in the spring time!), so you don’t have to work so hard when you brush them. They do have natural oils in their coat to help protect their skin, to take extra care not to over-wash your mastiff; about once a month should work nicely.
Although they are very large, mastiffs are a gentle breed and can be very wonderful pets if taken care of properly. They have a wonderful attitude towards children, but naturally their size may not make great pets if your child is very young and can easily get knocked over by a grown mastiff. There are many different types of mastiffs, some of the most popular being bull mastiffs, English mastiffs, and American mastiffs. If you decide to introduce a mastiff into your home, you won’t be sorry!
