2024 Author: Priscilla Miln | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-16 00:21
Among the huge number of dog breeds that differ not only in size, appearance, but also in character, the leading position is occupied by a formidable-looking, but unusually gentle and friendly French mastiff.
General view
These dogs stand out from other breeds in the first place 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 for mastiffs is from 70 to 90 kg.
The main feature is a massive rounded head, covered with a large number of folds. The coat of these dogs is soft to the touch, thin and short. Despite this, it protects the animal very well from both frost and heat. The color is tan, golden, fawn, sometimes there may be a black mask on the muzzle and white marks on the chest, as well as on the paws.
The body is built harmoniously, quite powerful, with muscular limbs. The tail is thicker at the base, but not very long, in a calm state it is lowered down, while reaching the hock. Hanging ears.
The French Mastiff is a verymobile. In running for short distances, she is able to develop a sufficiently high speed, almost without breaking away from the ground level, and in a jump she can even overcome a two-meter barrier.
History of the breed
Mastiffs originate from Molossian dogs that fought with gladiators in Ancient Rome and Ancient Greece. Several centuries ago, they were brought to France by Roman legionnaires and were used for hunting and protection. During the British rule in Bordeaux, these dogs were crossed with English Mastiffs, hunting dogs, from which they probably adopted their huge sizes. From here came the second name - the Dogue de Bordeaux, under which representatives of this breed participated in the first exhibition of French dogs in 1863
Character and temperament
Appearing at first glance as an aggressive or fighting dog, the French Mastiff is actually friendly and loyal. He has a particularly good relationship with children. The mastiff is always ready to play, submissively and patiently endures the pranks of the kids and will never harm them. On the contrary, he seeks to patronize everyone: both small children and pets.
Despite the seeming slowness and stupid look, it is worth noting the rather high level of intelligence of dogs of this breed. The French mastiff knows how to win over, he is very sociable and unusually attached to his master. Left alone, he begins to yearn.
DogsThis breed is also distinguished by watchdog qualities, courageously showing them when necessary, but at the same time without excessive aggression. Even when a potential aggressor appears, the mastiff will not bark in vain, he is able to demonstrate strength and power with his frightening appearance.
Maintenance and Care
Like most other breeds, the French Mastiff dog needs regular long walks and exercise to help avoid obesity and related illnesses. At the same time, you should not overdo it with physical exercises, they should be present in moderation.
The diet of these dogs should be balanced and contain the required amount of carbohydrates, proteins and vitamins.
Caring for a dog like the French Mastiff requires mandatory hygiene procedures. Numerous folds on the muzzle of the animal must be cleaned of dirt and washed to prevent possible infection. Wool is cleaned, as a rule, only during the molting period. 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. When providing a mastiff with long active walks, it is quite possible to keep him in a city apartment.
Education and training
Dogue de Bordeaux (French Mastiff) is a very vulnerable and sensitive dog. Therefore, it is necessary to engage in its training consistently, in a calm andfriendly atmosphere, while praising the pet for each correct execution of the command. Rude shouts, unfair punishments can lead to insecurity and melancholy in a dog.
With proper upbringing, the Dogue de Bordeaux reveals all its best qualities, and, conversely, making mistakes in this matter or lack of training can make the dog dangerous to others.
The French Mastiff is very easy to learn and train, he is able to understand the owner literally from one word and unquestioningly obey. Rushing to his defense will be only on command or at the moment of real danger.
Features of raising a puppy
Literally from the first days of the appearance of a puppy of this amazing breed in the house, it is necessary to tame him to human hands.
And this is not at all necessary, it should only be the hands of the owner. It is desirable that a variety of people take the puppy, pet it and communicate with it. Such socialization is of great importance and will absolutely not harm 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 developmental deviations.
French Mastiff (photos of representatives of this breed are posted in this article) will grow up confident, beautiful and strong if you follow all the rules for feeding and keeping it from puppyhood.
Unfortunately, the breed does not differ in longevity, and this is probably its only drawback. Average durationMastiffs only have a lifespan of 7-8 years.
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