Mastiff French: description and characteristics of the breed

Among the huge number of dog breeds, differing not only in size, exterior, but also character, the leading position is taken by a formidable but extremely gentle and friendly mastiff French.

General form

These dogs stand out against the background of other breeds primarily with their unusual appearance. They have quite impressive dimensions, on average, the height at the withers is 65 cm, sometimes more than 1 m. The corresponding weight and weight for mastiffs is from 70 to 90 kg. The main feature is a massive head of round shape, covered with a large number of folds. The wool of these dogs is soft to the touch, thin and short. Despite this, it protects the animal very well both from frost and from heat. Color is tawny, golden, pale, sometimes there is a black mask on the muzzle and white marks in the chest area, as well as on the paws.

The body is composed harmoniously, quite powerful, with muscular limbs. The tail is thicker at the base, but not very long, in a calm state it is lowered downwards, reaching at the same time the hock joint. The ears are hanging.

The French mastiff is a very mobile dog. In running for short distances is able to develop a sufficiently high speed, almost without breaking off at the same time from the ground level, and in the jump can overcome even a two-meter barrier.

History of the breed

The origin of the mastiff is from Molossian dogs fighting with gladiators in Ancient Rome and Ancient Greece. Several centuries ago they were brought to France by Roman legionaries and used for hunting and protection. At the time of British rule in Bordeaux, these dogs crossed with English mastiffs, hunting danes, from which, probably, and took over the huge size. Hence the second name - the Bordeaux dog, under which the representatives of this breed participated in the first exhibition of French dogs in 1863.

Character and temperament

Producing at first glance the impression of himself as an aggressive or fighting dog, the Mastiff of France is actually distinguished by friendliness and devotion. Especially good relations with him are established with children. Mastiff is always ready for the game, obediently and patiently takes down the pranks of the kids and will never harm them. On the contrary, he seeks to take care of everyone: small children and pets.

Despite the apparent slowness and stupid appearance, it is worth noting a fairly high level of intelligence of dogs of this breed. The French mastiff is able to arrange himself, he is very sociable and is extremely attached to his master. Staying alone, begins to yearn.

Dogs of this breed are distinguished by guarding qualities, bravely showing them when necessary, but without excessive aggression. Even with the appearance of a potential aggressor, the mastiff will not start barking in vain, he is capable of demonstrating strength and power in one of his frightening ways.

Maintenance and care

Just like most other breeds, the French mastiff dog needs regular long walks and loads, which helps to avoid obesity and associated diseases. At the same time, you should not overdo with physical exercises, they should be present in moderation.

The nutrition of these dogs should be balanced and contain the necessary amount of carbohydrates, proteins and vitamins.

Care for a dog like Mastiff French, requires mandatory hygienic procedures. Numerous folds on the muzzle of the animal must be cleaned of contaminants and washed to prevent possible contamination. Wool is cleaned, as a rule, only during moult. You can use special rubber gloves designed for cleaning short-haired dogs.

These animals are very thermophilic and are adapted to live only in a heated room. While providing the mastiff with long active walks, it is quite possible to keep it in the city apartment.

Training and training

The dog is very vulnerable and sensitive. Therefore, it is necessary to train her training consistently, in a calm and friendly atmosphere, while praising the pet at every correct execution of the team. Rough shouting, unjust punishment can lead to the appearance of uncertainty in the dog and melancholy.

With competent upbringing, the Bordeaux dog reveals all his best qualities, and, conversely, making mistakes in this matter or lack of training can make a dog dangerous to others.

Mastiff French is very easy to train and trained, he is able to understand the owner literally from one word and obey unconditionally. The only way to defy him is by command or at the moment of real danger.

Features of puppy education

Literally from the first days of the appearance in the house of a puppy of this amazing breed it is necessary to tame it to human hands.

And it does not necessarily have to be only the hands of the owner. It is desirable that a variety of people take a puppy, stroked and communicated with him. This socialization is of great importance and absolutely will not damage the guarding qualities of the dog in the future. The room where the baby is located should be spacious enough. This will eliminate the appearance of various deviations in development.

French Mastiff (photos of the representatives of this breed are placed in this article) will grow self-confident, beautiful and strong, if from puppyhood to observe all the rules for feeding and keeping it.

Unfortunately, the breed does not differ in longevity, and this is probably its only drawback. The average life expectancy of mastiffs is only 7-8 years.