AMERICAN MASTIFF Breed Standards
The American Mastiff was developed over many years of selective breeding by Fredericka Wagner of Flying W Farms, Piketon, Ohio. The goal was to develop a dog that had the size, temperament, disposition, and the appearance of the Mastiff, but with fewer health problems, and much dryer mouth than other mastiff breeds. This was accomplished by crossing the English Mastiff with the Anatolian Mastiff during the early development of the breed.
SKILLS: It is a large, massive, and powerful dog.
SIZE: Height: 28-35 inches (65-89 cm.) Weight: Males 160 to over 200 pounds (72-90 kg.) Females 140-180 pounds (63-81 kg.)
COAT: Puppies are all born dark, and lighten as they grow older, some becoming very light fawn by age one year; some retain dark hairs. It is possible to have a small white patch on the foot, chest, or chin.
CARE REQUIRED: The smooth, short-haired coat is easy to groom. Brush with a firm bristle brush and wipe over with a piece of toweling or chamois for a gleaming finish. Bathe or dry shampoo when necessary. This breed is an average shedder.
CHARACTER: The American Mastiff love children and are totally devoted to their families. Dignity rather than gaiety; quiet, calm, loving and loyal. Protective, but not aggressive; they are non-aggressive except in those instances when their family, especially the children, are threatened. In those instances they become fierce and courageous guard dogs. They are wise, kind and gentle, patient and understanding, very loving with their own people, neither shy nor vicious, loyal, and devoted. It is exactly like the English Mastiff in looks, size, disposition; the only difference is the American Mastiff has a much dryer mouth than the English Mastiff.
EXERCISE: Mastiffs are inclined to be lazy but they will keep fitter and happier if given regular exercise. They should always be leashed in public
SOCIAL BEHAVIOR: American Mastiffs will do okay in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. They are relatively inactive indoors and a small yard will do.
TRAINING: The American Mastiff needs a yard, even if it's a smaller lot. They are athletic, so a good walk once a day will do. They love to run; if they are kept in a smaller yard, a trip to the park will be a special treat.
