Some slobber, some protect and guard, and they are all pretty large! Did you know there are over 14 different breeds of the Mastiff? Read on for a summary of some of the most well known mastiff types. Which one do you own, or hope to someday have?
1. Argentinian Mastiff | AKA: Argentine Dogo
- Playful and kid friendly
- Relatively easy to train, but don’t underestimate how mighty these dogs are. Commitment to training is critical.
- Require leadership from their owner.
- Generally well behaved with other dogs, especially if they are raised with siblings, but stay alert when unknown dogs are near.
Framed Art of Argentinian Mastiff Available Here
2. The Brazilian Mastiff | AKA: Fila Brasileiro
- Wrinkle, wrinkle, little star! The Fila Brasileiro is part Mastiff part Bloodhound,
Fila Brasileiro. Part Mastiff, part Bloodhound. and you guessed it, wrinkly as can be.
- Plays nice with others (pets and kids).
- A bond that doesn’t break! Once it is connected to you or your family, you can rest assured your furry friend is capable of laying some smack down to protect and defend you.
WARNING: This house is protected by a Brazilian Mastiff
3. Bullmastiff | Bulldog+Mastiff = Bullmastiff (and we think they’re awesome!)
- Devoted to their family/guardian
Bullmastiff enjoying the snow. - Pretty laid back, but once threatened you could feel like you’re facing a real bull as they can turn full blown protector mode! Note: Male dogs may react aggressively around other male dogs, especially if unknown.
- Moderate exercise needs compared to other mastiff breeds.
- If you’re considering owning a bullmastiff we recommend
this bullmastiff owners manual.
4. English Mastiff | Massive! Looking fierce, but truly friendly!
- Known for their massive heads, enormous size and variation of colors.
- Truly “gentle giants”! If you’re looking for a house dog for yourself or a family, this may be the match you’re looking for.
- Kings of drool!
- A black mask should occur in all color variations of this breed.Checkout these cute “Mastiff Mom” PJ’s!
5. French Mastiff | AKA: Dogue de Bordeaux
- Muscular and massive, but smaller than the English Mastiff in size.
French Mastiff (note the squishy face)! - Cute squishy faces, but this can lead to breathing problems. Research “Brachycephalic syndrome“.
- Makes for a great guard dog, but socialization and proper training are necessary to keep this instinct in check.
- Known for that dreaded “D” word… drool, and the snore too!
6. German Mastiff | AKA: Great Dane (Deutsche Dogge, meaning “German Mastiff”)
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Did you know a Great Dane is a breed of Mastiff? Kid friendly, but may exhibit “little dog syndrome” so look out for your little ones around this big dog that doesn’t know it’s size.
- Indoor only. This breed should not be kept outdoors.
- Some danes drool!
Image: A Great Dane with brindle color pattern.
7. Italian Mastiff | AKA: Cane Corso
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Cane Corso. A great watchdog. Closely related to the Neapolitan Mastiff.
- Sharp and intelligent dogs making them pretty easy to train, but NOT recommended if you are a novice dog owner.
Here’s exactly how to train your italian mastiff. - Want a guard dog? The Italian Mastiff may be your fit! They’re excellent watch dogs.
8. Neapolitan Mastiff | AKA: WrinkleMcGuardian (yeah… that’s not a real ‘alias’ but these are two things this breed is recognized for). 
- Loyal and devoted to their owner/family.
- Keep em’ cool! While these dogs like to be outside, they are not a fan of heat.
- Super droolers, but drool is cool, right?
- If you want size the Neapolitan will meet your demands, and they’re actually pretty quick too! Look out intruders!
- Kid friendly and family focused, but don’t get hung up on the gentle side.
This breed, like many other mastiffs can become a bit edgy around strangers (other pets and unknown people). - Exercise addicts, but sensitive to heat. If you live in or enjoy hiking in cold climates this may be your match.
- Sloppy sippers! They drool, and when drinking water be prepared to meet their wet drooling face with a rag, unless you like to decorate with slobber!
We recommend this book if you’re interested in this breed.
10. Spanish Mastiff | AKA: Mastín Español
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Mastín Español They bark a lot! Therefore if you live in an urban setting or in close proximity to your neighbors, you might reconsider choosing the Spanish Mastiff. Loud and large!
- Compared to other breeds, exercise needs are moderate.
- They make for great guard dogs (both for the fam and a property).
11. Tibetan Mastiff | AKA: Beyonce (Not a true alias, but they are I-N-D-E-P-E-N-D-E-N-T! So if you’re looking for name inspiration, you’re welcome!)
- If socialized young, these dogs can be great around kids (very patient) and
Tibetan Mastiffs have a long life span. Some can live 10-14 years. dedicated to the family, but they can become protective around unknown children.
- Generally plays well with other pets.
- Obedience training is highly recommended.
Click here for a recommended Tibetan Mastiff training guide.
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What’s your favorite mastiff breed? Comment below.
