Being descendants of the now-extinct molasses, a dog that served as a guard and herdsman in the days of the Roman Empire, many of today’s mastiffs are among the oldest dog breeds in the world. Breeders have developed numerous types of mastiff throughout history, hence it is considered a fairly varied group.
Originally, these large, powerful canines were bred as working dogs for a particular purpose, including guard/protection, herding, hunting, and even as fighting dogs; however, today most live as loyal and loving pets.
How many types of mastiff are there in total? What characterizes mastiffs? Keep reading below to know all the mastiff-type dogs and learn to differentiate them…
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How many types of mastiff are there?
In general, it is said that there are more than 15 different types of mastiffs around the world. Of these, only 12 have been officially recognized by the FCI ( International Cynological Federation ).
However, as we announced before, in this article we show you the complete list of mastiff-type breeds, including those that are not accepted by the main kennel clubs. Many of these dogs are variously known as “mastiffs” or ” bulldogs “.
Let’s see what they are, what they look like, what identifies them… and what type of mastiff may be the most suitable for your family.
1. Mastiff or Argentine Dogo
The popular Argentine Dogo is the typical mastiff dog that stands out for its fidelity and vigilant nature; he will not only want to protect his family but property as well. He is a very intelligent dog, active, and generally very easy to train. He likes games and fun, which is why he usually gets along well with children.
But the Argentine Dogo is not a mastiff for any owner. Being a muscular and powerful dog, it is not recommended for weak or inexperienced owners. It is important that the person knows how to show leadership, firmness, and security.
It can live with other animals but be warned that it could become aggressive with strange dogs, especially if the owner has not provided the necessary leadership.
- Origin: Argentina (developed for hunting large wild prey, such as wild boars and pumas)
- Temperament: affectionate, happy, loyal, protective, tolerant
- Height: 60-68cm
- Weight: 35-45kg
- Colors: white
- Life expectancy: 10-12 years
- Hypoallergenic: No
2. Brazilian Mastiff or Fila
The Fila Brasileiro combines Mastiff-type and Hound-type characteristics, resulting in a large, strong dog with many wrinkles. He is described as a totally devoted companion to his owner. He doesn’t hesitate when it comes to protecting the family from him, a trait accentuated by his suspicious personality towards strangers.
Precisely, this is a problem that must be managed in time. As an owner, you will want to start the socialization of a Brazilian Mastiff early. Likewise, it is important to teach them to trust, since otherwise, they could interpret anything as a threat. In short, it is not the most suitable type of mastiff for an inexperienced person.
In case you have children at home, you will be glad to know that he is usually incredibly gentle with them. He won’t mind getting shoved and nudged during play. He also tends to get along with other pets in the household.
- Origin: Brazil (obtaining a breed that combined aggressiveness traits and tracking abilities)
- Temperament: brave, determined, docile, loyal, obedient
- Height: 60-75cm
- Weight: 41-50kg
- Colors: black, brindle, red, yellow
- Life expectancy: 9-11 years
- Hypoallergenic: No
It may interest you:
- How Many Types of Bulldogs Are There? List of Breeds, Differences + Images
- What are the Types of Hound? Trackers, Hunters, and Hounds
3. Bullmastiff
As its name indicates, the bullmastiff is the result of the cross between a mastiff and a bulldog. From his ancestors, he inherited a calm, gentle, dedicated, and protective temperament. His might, alertness, and stamina make him an excellent guardian. Although he is a laid-back dog by nature, he will become fearless if he feels threatened.
As a future owner, he considers that he can be quite stubborn. Sometimes it is very difficult to get him to act against his will. In addition, it should be noted that male bullmastiffs can be very intolerant of other male dogs and can be aggressive towards strange dogs in general.
This is another breed in the mastiff family that is not recommended for first-time or inexperienced owners.
- Origin: UK (developed to protect property from poachers)
- Temperament: alert, courageous, calm, devoted, loyal, protective, trustworthy
- Height: 61-69cm
- Weight: 45-60kg
- Colors: fawn, fawn tabby, red, red tabby, red-fawn tabby
- Life expectancy: 8-10 years
- Hypoallergenic: No
4. English Mastiff
Surprisingly mild in personality, the English is a gentle and easygoing type of Mastiff. Not for nothing is he considered an excellent domestic dog and a loyal member of the family. Proper socialization and training make it a good companion for children and other household pets.
His bond with the family is so strong that it is not recommended to leave him alone frequently, much less for long periods of time. The English Mastiff is known to be prone to destructive behavior and separation anxiety.
Note. This type of giant mastiff thrives in cold climates but does not adapt very well to hot climates.
- Origin: United Kingdom (used as bait for bears, lions, and bulls)
- Temperament: affectionate, alert, courageous, intelligent, loyal, protective
- Height: 70-76cm
- Weight: 54-113kg
- Colors: apricot, brindle, fawn
- Life expectancy: 10-12 years
- Hypoallergenic: No
5. French Mastiff
Popularly known as the Dogue de Bordeaux, this type of mastiff is smaller than some of its other close cousins. He is known for being a calm, patient dog, very loyal to his family, and kind to children. Of course, he is usually distrustful of strangers.
Early socialization in this breed is essential, not only to avoid aggression toward other people but also towards other animals. The best thing is that it lives under the leadership of an experienced owner.
Like other mastiff dogs, it is prone to excessive drooling and snoring.
- Origin: France (used to pull carts, transport heavy objects, protect herds and property)
- Temperament: brave, devoted, loyal, vigilant, even-tempered, sociable
- Height: 58-75cm
- Weight: 54-65kg
- Colors: fawn, Isabela, mahogany, red
- Life expectancy: 10-12 years
- Hypoallergenic: No
6. German Mastiff
Although not known by that name to most, this is a very popular Mastiff. It is nothing more and nothing less than the Great Dane. This bulldog-type dog is not only the largest of all mastiffs, it is also one of the giants of the canine world. The breed is the result of a cross between an English Mastiff and an Irish Wolfhound.
When socialized and trained as a puppy, the Great Dane is considered to be friendly, affectionate, and trustworthy. He usually gets along well with children and other animals in the home but is not always aware of their enormous size, so they should not be left unattended.
Physical strength and protective instinct demand safe confinement, away from passers-by and strangers.
- Origin: Germany (developed to obtain a hunting dog with great physical strength and tracking abilities)
- Temperament: friendly, trusting, devoted, intelligent, gentle, reserved
- Height: 71-86cm
- Weight: 45-90kg
- Colors: black, black and white, blue, brindle, fawn, harlequin, merle, white
- Life expectancy: 7-10 years
- Hypoallergenic: No
7. Italian Mastiff
Better known as the Cane Corso, this is another Mastiff-type breed distinguished by its agility, endurance, and powerful musculature. At home, it is usually a calm, gentle pet, eager to please the whole family. His intelligence and accommodating personality make him very easy to train.
The Cane Corso is excellent as a guard dog. They are known to be fierce when it comes to protecting their own property. This can sometimes be a problem if they have not been properly socialized as a puppy.
- Origin: Italy (bred as a guard and hunting dog)
- Temperament: lively, courageous, loyal, calm, sociable
- Height: 60-68cm
- Weight: 40-50kg
- Colors: Black, Black Tabby, Chestnut Tabby, Fawn, Gray, Gray Tabby, Red
- Life expectancy: 10-11 years
- Hypoallergenic: No
8. Neapolitan Mastiff
One of the most recognized among the different mastiff-type dogs is undoubtedly the Neapolitan mastiff. This is a close cousin of the Cane Corso, but much larger and, of course, wrinkled. Raised to be the guardian of the family, the Neapolitan is always on the lookout and incredibly loyal.
It is noted that he is usually very suspicious of strangers and moderately tolerant of people he knows. It is very important to socialize as a puppy, especially if it is in a home with small children.
Neapolitan Mastiffs love to spend time in the open but be warned they do not do well in the heat. Another fact that you will want to know as a future owner is that they are prone to excessive drooling.
- Origin: Italy (used for different jobs, including herding, transporting, guarding and protecting, hunting wild prey)
- Temperament: protective, dominant, reckless, trainable
- Height: 60-75cm
- Weight: 50-70kg
- Colors: black, blue, mahogany, fawn
- Life expectancy: 8-10 years
- Hypoallergenic: No
9. Pyrenean Mastiff
Another giant and powerful mastiff, the Pyrenees is distinguished by its gentle and calm character, somewhat independent and stubborn. He is a very devoted dog to his family, but not very friendly with strangers. Training and early socialization with more people and animals are essential in this breed.
Due to its stubborn behavior, it is not recommended for timid or less experienced owners. In addition, it is noted that it is a type of mastiff that is quite vocal, with a tendency to excessive drooling.
- Origin: Spain (bred to watch over and protect herds and their owners from attacks by wolves, bears, and thieves)
- Temperament: calm, brave, docile, gentle, noble
- Height: 71-78cm
- Weight: 70-100kg
- Colors: white and beige, white and black, white and brown, white and gold, white and gray, white and silver
- Life expectancy: 10-12 years
- Hypoallergenic: No
10. Spanish Mastiff
An extremely protective and territorial breed, the Spanish Mastiff is one of the least friendly Mastiffs out there. This quality makes it an exceptional guard dog. In general, he is described as independent and unaffectionate. He is definitely not a type of mastiff for inexperienced owners.
As a prospective owner, you find that Spanish Mastiffs are prone to excessive and nuisance barking and that the breed seems better suited to life in dry climates.
- Origin: Spain (used to protect cattle during their transfer from one land to another)
- Temperament: determined, intelligent, self-confident, protective
- Height: 72-88cm
- Weight: 52-100kg
- Colors: black, brindle, fawn, sable, yellow
- Life expectancy: 10-12 years
- Hypoallergenic: No
11. Tibetan Mastiff
This Old Mastiff is a majestic, shaggy mountain dog, recognized not only for its unique appearance but also for its reserved, protective, and independent personality. It is considered a fairly territorial breed, which is why early socialization is so important.
Although he can be devoted to family, he is usually distrustful and aloof around strangers. He is very patient with the children of the household, as well as with other animals and dogs, but he can become protective in the presence of children and pets outside his environment.
Consider that Tibetan Mastiffs like to do their bidding; they are difficult to train and rarely respond to commands, or come when called. In fact, they don’t respond very well to regular obedience training.
The Tibetan is a type of mastiff recommended only for owners with enough experience and time to train it.
- Origin: China (formerly used as a livestock guard dog, protector of monasteries, and companion of nomadic Tibetan tribes)
- Temperament: independent, protective, willful, stubborn, brave, loyal
- Height: 61-71cm
- Weight: 64-78kg
- Colors: black, black and tan, blue, brown, gray, red
- Life expectancy: 10-14 years
- Hypoallergenic: No
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12. Alangu Mastiff
Also known as the Pakistani Mastiff or the Bully Kutta, this mighty mastiff is said to be one of the oldest dogs in the world. The ancestors of the modern Alangu were used as war and guard dogs by the Persian army.
Its most recent history places it as a farm dog in areas of Pakistan and India; some owners even keep it as a fighting dog.
It is a muscular dog, almost always white, with a very protective nature. It is known that it can be aggressive, killing, or injuring other animals. Be warned that it can become unruly and dangerous if it falls into the hands of the wrong person.
With early socialization and proper training, the Bully Kutta becomes a friendly and loyal companion.
- Origin: Pakistan, India (developed as a war dog)
- Temperament: protective, alert, aggressive, loyal, active, territorial
- Height: 71-89cm
- Weight: 70-90kg
- Colors: white, black and white, white and brown
- Life expectancy: 8-10 years
- Hypoallergenic: No
13. Abruzzese Mastiff
This mastiff-type breed is believed to be descended from ancient Greek shepherds and different Albanian dogs. Originally, it was bred and used as a cattle protector; its strength enabled it to successfully deter attacks from bears and other predators.
There are several types of Abruzzese mastiffs, for example, the Marsicano, which has a “lion’s head”, the Pescocostanzo, which has a “wolf’s head”, the Peligro, and the Maiellae, both with a “bear’s head”, and the Aquilano, considered to be the most impressive-looking sub-type.
In general, they are energetic, loyal, affectionate, and balanced dogs. As a pet, this mastiff is devoted and kind to members of his family, including other pets; however, he can be wary and protective of strangers.
- Origin: Italy (used to protect cattle against the attack of large predators)
- Temperament: loyal, protective, independent, intelligent, affectionate
- Height: 60-75cm
- Weight: 30-45kg
- Colors: white
- Life expectancy: 11-13 years
- Hypoallergenic: No
14. American Mastiff
Despite its fearsome appearance, the American Mastiff is a dog with a big heart and a mild temperament. This dog loves his family and is especially kind and patient with children.
While it is a non-aggressive mastiff-type breed, it can become overly protective if it feels something is threatening its owner.
One of its most special characteristics is that, unlike other mastiffs, the American does not drool as much. This is a great advantage for people who want a mastiff but prefer to avoid the excessive drooling that characterizes most breeds.
- Origin: United States (used to protect family, livestock, and property)
- Temperament: affectionate, calm, courageous, kind, protective
- Height: 65-91cm
- Weight: 63-90kg
- Colors: apricot, fawn, variegated, white
- Life expectancy: 10-12 years
- Hypoallergenic: No
15. Japanese Mastiff
The Japanese Mastiff, better known as the Tosa Inu, is another large and powerful dog. He is usually very friendly with his owners, but he can become aggressive if he feels threatened. It is important that the person knows how to establish himself as the leader of the pack to control possible traits of aggressiveness towards people, animals, and other pets.
In the past, the Tosa was used as a fighting dog, an activity for which it was taught to remain quiet. That caused that today these mastiffs are very sensitive to the voice and orders of their owner.
It is worth clarifying that the breed is prohibited in several countries, where it is considered a dog with a dangerous nature. This is definitely not a mastiff recommended for inexperienced people.
- Origin: Japan (developed as a fighting dog)
- Temperament: suspicious, brave, aggressive, fearless, intelligent
- Height: 62-82cm
- Weight: 37-90kg
- Colors: black, brindle, fawn, red
- Life expectancy: 10-12 years
- Hypoallergenic: No
See further: 23+ Most Dangerous Dogs in the World [Potentially Aggressive Breeds]
