A Guide to Different Types of Mastiffs: How to Choose the Right Breed for Your Family
© T. Darlene Cheek
Before you buy a Mastiff, make sure you research your choices and decide exactly which variety is right for you, your family, and other pets.
Dogue de Bordeaux
The Bordeaux is a French Mastiff. If you want a guard dog, the Bordeaux makes a better choice than the English Mastiff. Their temperament has, however, become more gentle with recent breeding. They're quite a bit smaller than the English Mastiff, so they may be better for those who don't have room for a huge dog. The Bordeaux has a height of 23-30" and weighs around 120-145 lbs. They aren't very good with other dogs, especially one male with another male, but they are devoted and loving with their family, including children.
The Neopolitan is probably the most wrinkly of all the Mastiffs. The male Neopolitan can reach a height of 31" and a weight of 150 lbs. The AKC standard describes the Neopolitan temperament as "calm yet wary," steady, loyal, protective, watchful, and not "apt to bite without reason." They're a bit more territorial than the English Mastiff, but in general, they are not aggressive.
The Bullmastiff is a mix between a Bulldog and a Mastiff. Shorter and stockier than the other types of Mastiff, males can reach a height of 25-27" and a weight of about 130 lbs. Their temperament is a bit different from the English Mastiff, but they are still a loving and good natured dog when raised and socialized properly. They have 40% Bulldog in their genes, so they're not as laid back as the English Mastiff, and, being smaller, have quite a bit more energy.
If you've always wanted a Mastiff but also love a dog with a beautiful, long, thick coat, the Tibetan Mastiff is your dog. This Mastiff should be a minimum of 26" at the withers. The AKC says the Tibetan Mastiff "is aloof and watchful of strangers, and highly protective of its people and property." Temperament-wise, the Tibetan is very independent and strong willed. Being so protective, they don't take to strangers very well.
The Spanish Mastiff is described as "stocky and rustic." The Spanish isn't as affectionate as the English Mastiff, but is still loyal and protective. The are extremely territorial and live up to their position as guardian. A large Spanish male can weigh over 250 lbs!
The Pyrenean is a long-haired Mastiff. They can grow to 32" tall and weigh 120-155 lbs. Breeds of Dogs describes the Pyrenean's temperament as "benign, even with other animals, as long as property and beings under his watchful eye are not threatened—then he can be formidable. Owners say he has a "clear concept of his strength" and doesn't need to show it off."
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