Types of Mastiff Dog

Mastiff breeds and their varieties are known for having a muscular, powerful body. In ancient times, these dogs were used to guard livestock, thanks to their protective nature and their proven ability to fend off predators.

Interested in adopting a Mastiff? Then you need to know how many Mastiff types exist and their main characteristics.

How Many Types of Mastiff Dogs Are There?

The American Kennel Club and the Fédération Cynologique Internationale are the institutions responsible for determining which breeds are officially recognized and setting each one's characteristics.

With that in mind, there are considered to be 8 types of Mastiff, bred mainly in Europe. Each variety has its own physical traits, but they all share descent from ancient molosser dogs.

English Mastiff

The English Mastiff is also simply known as the Mastiff. Its origins lie in Great Britain, where the breed has been bred since the 15th century, though there are records of possible ancestors from Rome's golden age.

Compared to other Mastiff types, the English one has a shorter, less glossy coat, in light fawn shades with a black muzzle, ears, and nose. The muzzle is short and the head square, paired with a solid body.

• Complete Information on the Mastiff

Tibetan Mastiff

The Tibetan Mastiff is native to Tibet, where the breed began to be bred around 300 AD. This Mastiff variety stands out for its long, woolly, soft coat, which comes in fawn combined with black, reddish, or solid black.

In ancient times, the Tibetan Mastiff lived among nomadic tribes, where it took on the role of herding and guard dog.

• Character and Behavior of the Tibetan Mastiff

Pyrenean Mastiff

This Mastiff variety is native to Spain, where it has also served as a guard dog. Unlike other Mastiff types, the Pyrenean has a gentler-looking appearance, largely thanks to its thick, woolly coat.

This variety is medium-sized, with small eyes and long, drooping ears. The coat color is usually white with a mask around the eyes, though there are also individuals in chestnut, gray, or a mix of light shades.

Dogue de Bordeaux

Native to France, the Dogue de Bordeaux is one of the oldest dog breeds in the country, where it was used as a guard dog and hunter. Beyond having typical molosser traits, this variety is brachycephalic.

Males tend to be dominant, but affectionate and calm with their owner. The coat is thin and short, but soft. It comes in fawn and chestnut shades, with some white patches on the legs and chest; some individuals have a brown or black mask around the eyes.

Boerboel

This variety is also called the South African Mastiff, since it comes from that region. It appeared around 1600, when it was used as a protective farm dog. Among Mastiff types, it's considered the most agile in physical performance.

Its appearance is solid, with a short coat and a body free of excess folds. The coat can be reddish, fawn, or sand-colored.

• What Is a Boerboel Dog Like?

Leonese Mastiff

Also known as the Spanish Mastiff, this variety is native to the Iberian Peninsula, where it has been used as a herding dog since ancient times. If you're looking for an affectionate dog, this is an excellent option for you.

As for its appearance, it has a light chestnut or reddish coat, though there are also black individuals or ones with a multi-colored coat. Another distinctive trait is a thick neck with several skin folds.

Italian Mastiff

This variety descends from a molosser breed originating in Rome. You might recognize it by its other name, the Cane Corso. It's known for a glossy coat, either black, gray, or fawn.

The Italian Mastiff will make a good guard dog for you, since it's very intelligent, attentive, and loyal. It also enjoys outdoor activities, a plus if you enjoy hiking or going for walks.

Neapolitan Mastiff

This Mastiff's ancestors date back to the 1st century AD. The breed developed in Naples (Italy) and was recognized in 1947.

The Neapolitan Mastiff is an excellent companion if you're looking for a loyal dog to protect your home. As for its appearance, it stands up to 75 centimeters at the withers. The body is muscular, the tail short, and the jaw powerful. The coat is short, but dense, and comes in reddish, gray, or brown tones.

Unrecognized Mastiff Types

Besides the 8 breeds mentioned, you'll find others also called Mastiffs that aren't yet recognized by official kennel clubs.

Here are some of them:

• Bullmastiff (a Mastiff-Bulldog cross)
• Perro de Presa de Borinquen (Puerto Rican Mastiff)
• Kashmir Mastiff
• Afghan Mastiff
• American Mastiff