Information about the American Mastiff

The American Mastiff is a molosser-type dog created by Fredericka Wagner of Flying W Farms by crossing an English Mastiff and an Anatolian Mastiff. In 2000, the breed was recognized by the Continental Kennel Club as purebred.

In an attempt to address issues of hip displasia, drooling, and a short lifespan, Fredericka Wagner of Flying W Farms crossed an English Mastiff with an Anatolian Mastiff, a breed known for its intelligence and lengthy lifespan for a large breed. Through very selective breeding, the American Mastiff was born. The American Mastiff looks similar to the English Mastiff. This line is relatively new, and the breeders have chosen not to register with most breed registries. They can be registered with the Continental Kennel Club, which recognized the line as purebred in 2000. American Mastiffs were bred to be family dogs, not show dogs. There are 8 authorized breeders in North America which comprise the American Mastiff Breeders Council (AMBC) and whose dogs’ bloodlines can be traced exclusively back to Flying W Farms. This is not the same as the American Mastiff Panja, which has lines of Pit bull and Rottweiler.

American Mastiffs are generally calm and quiet dogs and are wonderful with children. They are loyal and loving dogs who are not usually aggressive unless they need to protect their people.

Though they probably would not choose to exercise daily, a steady routine will keep them more fit and happier. It is good for their mental and physical health to be out and walking regularly.

Their grooming is easy due to their short-haired and smooth coat. They can easily be shampooed and shined by drying them after bathing, then brushing their coat with a brush with firm bristles. Though they do shed, they shed no more than the average dog.

American Mastiff dog comes in colors including fawn, apricot and brindle. Puppies are born dark in color and tend to lighten as they get older. American Mastiffs attain their true color by the age of approximately one year. White markings on the chin, chest and feet are acceptable. All American Mastiffs must exhibit a black mask in order to meet the breed standard.

The head should be wide, heavy and rectangular in shape with high-set rounded ears. A medium-sized muzzle should be well-proportioned to the rest of the head. The neck should be powerful with a slight arch, leading to a straight and muscular back. The chest should be deep, broad and well-rounded. Forelegs should be strong, straight and set well apart, while the hind legs should be wide and parallel. The dog should be 32 to 36 inches at the shoulder with females standing at 28 to 34. American Mastiff puppies are usually dark in color; however, as they mature their color tends to lighten. Common American Mastiff colors are fawn, apricot and brindle. The dog should have a temperament that is loving and devoted to its family, especially children. A loyal and calm dog, the American Mastiff should be non-aggressive except when its family is threatened. In those instances, they become fierce and courageous guard dogs.

Height: Females 28-34 inches. Males 32-36 inches. Weight: Females 140-180+ pounds. Males 160-200+ pounds.

American Mastiffs tend to be healthy and happy dogs with fewer reported incidents of many of the health problems generally seen in other large breeds.

Contrary to some other large breeds, this breed of Mastiff dog will get along perfectly well in an apartment as long as they are exercised daily. This can be a daily walk or short run. Usually even a small fenced yard will do just fine.

American Mastiffs are inclined to become lazy as they get older, but they will keep fitter and happier if given regular exercise. Like all dogs, the American Mastiff should be taken on daily regular walks to help release its mental and physical energy. As with any breed, it is best if they are leashed in public.

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