Mastiff Mastiff

Mastiff

16
Gentle Dignified Brave Patient

About the Mastiff

The English Mastiff is one of the most ancient and massive dog breeds, with roots tracing back over 2,000 years to ancient Britain and possibly earlier Molosser-type dogs of Asia. Males commonly weigh 160 to 230 pounds and stand 30 inches or taller at the shoulder, making them among the heaviest domestic dogs in the world. Their short, dense double coat comes in fawn, apricot, or brindle — always with a distinctive dark mask on the face.

Temperament & Personality

Despite their imposing size, Mastiffs are famously gentle, calm, and deeply loyal — often called "gentle giants" with good reason. They are patient and protective with children in their family, though their sheer mass means supervision around small kids is wise. Mastiffs tend to be reserved with strangers but rarely aggressive, preferring to position themselves between their family and any perceived threat.

Pros

  • Naturally protective without needing guard training
  • Surprisingly low energy indoors — content to lounge for hours
  • Gentle and patient temperament ideal for families
  • Short coat requires only basic weekly brushing

Cons

  • Massive food bills — adult Mastiffs eat 6 to 10 cups of food daily
  • Shorter lifespan of 6 to 10 years typical of giant breeds
  • Prone to hip dysplasia, bloat (gastric torsion), and heart conditions
  • Excessive drooling is a constant reality with this breed

Ready to welcome a magnificent gentle giant into your home? Explore Mastiff adoption opportunities on Puplister.

Mastiff Quick Facts

Size
120–230 lbs, 28–36 in
Lifespan
6–10 years
Exercise
Low
Grooming
Low
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes

Is the Mastiff right for you?

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Available Mastiffs

Penny
Baby 1
Penny
L

Mastiff

Friends Of The Alameda Animal Shelter · Alameda, CA
Thalia
Adult 1
Thalia
M

Mastiff / Boxer

Prince Georges County Animal Management Division · Forestville, MD
Athena
Young 2
Athena
XL

Cane Corso / Mastiff

Canine Rescue Coalition · Goodyear, AZ
Octavia
Adult 2
Octavia
XL

Mastiff

Rescue Fenix · San Diego, CA
Luanne
Young
Luanne
XL

Cane Corso / Mastiff

Canine Rescue Coalition · Goodyear, AZ
Paisey
Adult 2
Paisey
L

Mastiff / Great Dane

San Antonio Animal Care Services · San Antonio, TX
Duke
Adult 2
Duke
L

Boxer / Mastiff

Temple Animal Shelter · Temple, TX
Blu
Young 1
Blu
S

Mastiff

Weber County Animal Services · Ogden, UT

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key traits of a Mastiff?
The Mastiff is known for being gentle, dignified, brave and patient.
How many Mastiffs are available for adoption?
There are currently 106 Mastiffs available for adoption on Puplister. Browse the listings above to find your perfect match.
How do I adopt a Mastiff from Puplister?
To adopt a Mastiff, browse the available listings on this page, click on a pet you're interested in, and contact the shelter directly through their profile page.