Understanding the Drawbacks of Owning a Mastiff
The Mastiff truly embodies the term “gentle giant” — affectionate, loyal, and deeply bonded with its family. However, despite their many positive qualities, owning a Mastiff is not without significant challenges. Prospective owners should carefully weigh these considerations before committing to this regal yet demanding breed.
1. Enormous Size Presents Challenges
One of the most obvious and often underestimated factors about Mastiffs is their sheer size. Adult males can weigh up to 230 pounds and stand over 30 inches tall. Females average between 120 and 170 pounds. This massive stature creates logistical hurdles in daily life:
- Space Requirements: Small living spaces can be unsafe or uncomfortable for such large dogs.
- Transportation: Travel and transport become complicated, especially in standard vehicles.
- Physical Handling: Even basic care like bathing or lifting during injury becomes difficult.
2. Increased Risk of Medical Issues
Mastiffs are prone to numerous chronic and hereditary health conditions due to their size and genetics:
- Joint Disorders: Hip and elbow dysplasia lead to lameness and arthritis.
- Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus (Bloat): A dangerous condition requiring emergency action.
- Bone Cancer: Osteosarcoma is common in older Mastiffs.
- Eye Problems: Including entropion, ectropion, cataracts, and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA).
- Heart and kidney conditions, neurological disorders, and allergies are also prevalent.
Regular vet care, health screening, and prompt attention to symptoms are essential to manage these risks and extend their typical 6–10 year lifespan.
3. High Maintenance Grooming and Drooling
Although their coat is short and relatively low-maintenance, Mastiffs require weekly grooming and care of their facial wrinkles to prevent infections. A common and messy drawback is their heavy drooling, especially after eating or drinking. Be prepared to carry towels for clean-up and protect furniture from slobber.
4. Expense and Cost of Ownership
Caring for a Mastiff can be considerably more expensive than smaller breeds. Major expenses include:
- Veterinary bills: Due to health vulnerabilities and short life expectancy.
- Food consumption: They eat large quantities of high-quality food to maintain optimal health.
- Specialized products: Larger beds, collars, crates, and play items are required.
- Grooming and supplies: Plus potential training or behavior consultation costs.
5. Training and Socialization Commitment
Mastiffs are strong-willed and powerful, so early socialization and consistent training are non-negotiable. Without proper guidance, they can become overly cautious, stubborn, or even difficult to manage. Harsh corrections don’t work well — Mastiffs respond best to gentle, positive, reward-based training techniques.
6. Moderate Exercise Needs with Restrictions
Despite their size, Mastiffs have moderate energy levels. However, they are vulnerable to joint injuries and must not be over-exercised as puppies. Controlled walks and soft-surface play are best. This limits compatible lifestyles — they’re not suitable for high-energy owners or those seeking a jogging partner.
7. Supervision Around Children and Other Pets
Mastiffs are generally tolerant and affectionate, especially with older kids, but their size demands constant supervision around small children and vulnerable individuals to avoid accidental harm. Early socialization with other pets is also essential to foster harmony in multi-animal homes.
8. Short Lifespan
One of the most emotional cons is their relatively brief lifespan of 6–10 years. Losing such a deeply bonded family member after a short time can be heartbreaking and must be considered emotionally before choosing this breed.
9. Not Apartment-Friendly
Their immense size and space needs make Mastiffs ill-suited for apartment living. They thrive best in homes with secure yards and ample room to navigate safely indoors. Lack of space can contribute to physical discomfort and behavioral issues.
10. Potential for Behavioral Problems Without Proper Care
If left untrained or unsocialized, a Mastiff's natural protectiveness can lead to fear-based aggression or over-guarding. Such behavior can be challenging or even dangerous in such a massive animal. Early exposure to different people, pets, and environments is critical.
Conclusion
The Mastiff is a majestic, loving, and loyal breed, but with its strengths come noteworthy challenges. Their care requires a significant investment of time, space, money, and emotional resilience. For the right owner — someone patient, well-informed, and ready to meet their unique needs — a Mastiff can provide unparalleled companionship and protection. However, for those unprepared for the commitment, these gentle giants may not be the best match.
