External parameters of the American Mastiff, manifestations of the character of the dog and the nuances of its health, requirements for care: walking, diet, training. Puppy cost. The American Mastiff, or American mastiff, is a newly developed breed and was first recognized as a purebred in 2000. Bred by Frederica Wagner of the Flying W Farms community, the American Mastiff is the result of crossing two breeds: English Mastiffs with Anatolian Shepherds. The purpose of breeding these canines was that Wagner wanted to develop a dog that would be almost identical in appearance to the English mastiff, but he salivated less and had fewer health problems.
The development of the American Mastiff has created extremely controversial disagreements with the breeders of the English Mastiff, who are generally strongly opposed to the new breed. Representatives of the variety were bred exclusively as companion animals with a good temperament, which is of great importance in breeding work. The American Mastiff should not be confused with the American Panja Mastiff, which is a different, distinct species with a completely different history.
Description of the external parameters of the American Mastiff
This animal is usually similar in appearance to the English Mastiff, but shows several notable differences, most notably in its head. Most pets tend to be more muscular and athletic than bulky ones. Both the English Mastiff and the Anatolian Shepherd Dog from which it is descended are some of the largest breeds in the world, and the American Mastiff is no exception.
Breed standards require that males are from 81, 28 to 91, 44 cm in length and weigh 72, 58-90, 72 kg, and females from 71, 12 to 86, 36 cm and weigh 63, 50 81, 65 kg. However, individual dogs can be significantly smaller or larger than these parameters.
- Head - usually somewhat large, moderate at best. It should be in proportion to your body size. The American Mastiff usually has a wrinkled face, but not excessively, some individuals have virtually no wrinkles. The forehead is flat, a furrow is visible on it.
- Muzzle - deep, relatively short, but its length varies in breed animals. In some dogs, the muzzle is noticeably shorter than the skull, while the muzzle in others is approximately equal to the length of the skull. It is wide and powerful, more like the muzzle of a Danish brochholmer than its English cousin. Black lips are significantly tighter and tighter than most English mastiffs, but in some individuals they are more pronounced. The bridge of the nose is usually even. The transition from forehead to muzzle is smooth. The flews hang down slightly, overlapping the lower jaw. The dentition is developed, located in the bite in the form of scissors.
- Nose American Mastiff is black, developed and flat.
- Eyes should be dark in color and widely spaced.
- Ears - proportional, triangular, hanging.
- Neck - strong and muscular.
- Frame The American Mastiff is well balanced, powerful and slightly elongated. However, breed representatives are usually slightly smaller than their English counterparts, and with a slightly more athletic appearance. The withers are well developed and clearly visible. Large breasts. Ribs are oval. The back is broad and muscular. The loin is strong, the croup is slightly sloping. The belly is moderately tucked up.
- Tail - rather long and tapering strongly from base to tip. When the dog is at rest, it is lowered, slightly curved in the last third.
- Front limbs - thick boned, muscular and powerful. Hind legs - erect, with voluminous thighs.
- Paws - round, gathered in a lump.
- Coat American Mastiffs are almost always short and sturdy, although puppies with a longer coat appear occasionally. Such "pussies" are not considered a fault in this breed.
- Color available in only three colors: fawn, apricot and brindle. All puppies are born dark and reach their adult coloration over time, although all colors may occasionally retain dark hairs. All American Mastiffs, regardless of color, must have a black mask that covers most of their muzzle and extends around their eyes. In addition, most members of the breed have darker ears, which are often black as well. Minimal white markings are permitted on the chest, paws, nose and chin. Some individuals are born with alternating coloration. These dogs do not meet breed standards and should not be bred.
Manifestations of the character of the American mastiff
There is significant disagreement between American Mastiff fans and English Mastiff breeders regarding their temperament. American mastiff lovers claim that their dogs are, in fact, similar in temperament to their English cousins. While the other side usually says that these dogs are more aggressive, alert and unstable. Unfortunately, none of the "debaters" seem to be able to provide any objective evidence to support their claims.
The American Mastiff is mostly known as a companion dog. Pets form very intense and close bonds with their host families. There is nothing wrong that one of the breed could do, being in the company of people he knows. In behavior with pets, pets are always loyal. Some American Mastiffs can be somewhat intrusive, which becomes problematic for their owners, because they are huge.
In general, those pets that have been properly socialized are very tolerant and gentle with children, and many are very fond of them. Owners should be careful when children play with animals incorrectly, as the dog may have a protective instinct. In addition, an American Mastiff puppy may not be the best housemate for very young children, as there is the possibility of an accidental bite while trying to play.
American Mastiffs retain a strong protective instinct inherited from both the English Mastiff and the Anatolian Shepherd Dog. In general, this breed is wary of strangers, although there is considerable disagreement as to how cautious it is. These dogs are rarely timid or shy, but rather brave and protective. With socialization, this breed is usually polite and cautious, although it almost never craves meeting new people. Individual dogs may be slow to react, but most breed members will end up treating new people who come to your home like any other member of their family.
So far, there is no consensus regarding the manifestation of the American Mastiff's character with other animals, as most breeders usually keep several of these dogs together. Apparently, dogs can live with other relatives in peace and harmony. However, the aggression between males is far from the unheard-of battles between Anatolian Shepherds and English Mastiffs, but you should still closely monitor them. Any pack conflict involving the American Mastiff is extremely serious, since the animal, without much effort, can harm or kill almost any other dog. Even more caution should be exercised with animals not related to the canine family, although this breed can be trained to accept their presence and even protect them.
Health characteristics of the American Mastiff breed
The breed has long suffered from many health problems and reduced life expectancy. The reduction of these flaws was the main reason for the development of the American Mastiff. There is substantial disagreement as to whether there has been a reduction in health problems, and if so, to what extent. But there appears to be no health research done on American Mastiffs, and in any case, the breed is probably too young to make any definitive claims about it.
Virtually all sources claim that the American Mastiff is in significantly better health than most large breeds in general and the English Mastiff in particular, although it is unclear what evidence these claims are based on. There is also no hard evidence for stories that say these dogs have a longer lifespan than most giant breeds, at around 8-11 years.
Like all Molossian breeds, American Mastiffs suffer from skeletal growth abnormalities. The bones of these dogs grow much faster than those of smaller breeds, often at an unnatural rate. As a result, if a puppy of this species, as it grows, receives a poor-quality diet or inappropriate exercise, its bones and joints may not develop properly. This leads to pain, arthritis, nervous system problems, shortness of breath, lameness and, in severe cases, death. The loads that American Mastiff puppies receive must also be carefully monitored, as overloading or inappropriateness can cause problems. For example, pedigree representatives cannot jump above a certain height.
Since skeletal and visual problems are known to occur in this breed, it is highly desirable for owners to have their pets tested by both the Animal Orthopedic Foundation (OFA) and the Dog Registration Foundation (CERF). This is especially valuable in detecting flaws that do not appear until the dog reaches old age.
American mastiffs are experiencing the same problems as English mastiffs, albeit with lower rates. Some of the faults that pose a threat to the breed include: skeletal growth abnormalities, hip and elbow dysplasia, pulmonic stenosis, heart failure, heat intolerance, respiratory instability, snoring, flatulence, cataracts, entropion, progressive retinal atrophy, skin infections, weak sinus syndrome node, hypothyroidism, urolithiasis.
American Mastiff Care Requirements
- Pet hair needs regular brushing with a rubber brush or mitten, but due to their size, this can take a relatively long time. The breed sheds very much. One of these dogs can easily cover the entire house and furniture with its hair. Owners need to clean the wrinkles on their dogs' faces every day, and preferably after every meal. Otherwise, food, water and other particles will get caught between the folds of the skin and cause irritation and infection. Dogs are bathed extremely rarely, with typed shampoos.
- The teeth of the American Mastiff are brushed a couple of times a week with a special paste and brush so that the dog does not have dental problems.
- Clean the ears of these dogs with lotion once a week. To do this, fill the ear with the product and give a small massage to its base. After a few minutes, the separated sulfur is wiped off with a clean sponge.
- The eyes of the American Mastiff must be constantly examined and regularly wiped with prophylactic agents.
- A dog's claws require regular clipping with claws.
- Feeding should be chosen carefully. Natural food is difficult to balance. A dog's diet that is too rich or too poor can become equally dangerous. It is best to choose high quality large breed dog food formulas. Additionally, you need to give chondroprotectors.
- Walking. The American Mastiff seeks to accept any level of activity in its family. Probably, this dog can be an excellent companion on long forest hikes, if the opportunity presents itself. However, this breed will also do great on long, daily walks and will adapt better to apartment life than many of the smaller species.
As with any canine, American Mastiffs that don't get enough exercise and exercise are likely to develop behavioral problems such as destructiveness, excessive barking, and nervousness. Despite this, these pets will not be a burden for the owner, who will provide for their needs. Well-kept American Mastiffs are often very lazy and love to lie in the house.
In fact, many dog lovers describe their dogs as loyal animals, forever lounging on couches. The American Mastiff generally suffers from fewer problems than other Mastiffs, but this breed is still not overly clear of physiological flaws. American Mastiffs, although to a lesser extent than their English ancestors, drool, snore, make unusual noises, eat and drink very erratically, and pass gases with great frequency and incredible strength. Dogs can be decent pets, but that doesn't make them sophisticated.
American Mastiff training
The American Mastiff is an intelligent breed that can learn a lot. However, for many owners, these dogs can be difficult to train. Breed members tend to be stubborn and rarely undertake tasks that they do not want to do with impatience. While not an overly stubborn breed, they are definitely dogs that would rather act according to their own plans than obey other people's desires. In particular, many of these individuals dislike repeating simple tasks over and over.
These pets will not challenge the owner's authority, but definitely animals that try to behave independently. The owners of these dogs must be able to maintain a constant position of dominance. In general, breeders looking for a dog that will master basic obedience manners and perhaps a few simple tricks are likely to be satisfied with the American Mastiff. For those looking for agile, unquestioningly obedient dogs, it is probably better to look for pets of a different breed.
It is absolutely imperative that American Mastiff owners communicate properly with their dogs. Although this breed is definitely not aggressive in nature, if it is not taught to properly distinguish between friend and foe, then the animal may feel that every stranger is a threat. Even the smallest aggression from this large and powerful dog towards humans can be catastrophic.
Not only that, the American Mastiff is also territorial and alert, making it an excellent watchdog and highly effective defender. Although in most cases, breed representatives prefer to scare more than attack. Even the mere presence of this powerful animal is usually enough to ward off almost any offender. These mastiffs are suitable for personal protection, as they quickly cover any distance in order to prevent physical harm to a loved one.
American Mastiff puppy price
It is advisable to ask breeders before purchasing an American Mastiff that breeders show all OFA and CERF documents of the puppy and his parents that they have, and in fact all professional breeders should have. The price of a puppy is $ 600-1200.
What the American Mastiff looks like, see below:
