The Great Dane and Mastiff ?Two Big Friends to Love

Though both of these dogs started out as hunters and guardians, they are nothing more than gentle giants today. They do, however, present a formidable picture, with the Great Dane standing about 30 inches high and weighing between 100 and 130 pounds and the Mastiff standing 30 inches high and weighing up to 200 pounds (though the heaviest Mastiff weighed in was 343 pounds). The Dane抯 sleek look with defined jaw-line, erect ears and square build contrasts with the Mastiff抯 heavy jowls and droopy countenance. Both have a low to moderate activity level and, perhaps surprisingly, make good apartment dogs.

The Mastiff is likely 2000 years old coming from England and descended from the Tibetan Mastiff. The Great Dane is likely a mix between the Mastiff and the Irish Wolfhound, first seen in the sixteenth century, and was named the national breed of Germany in 1876. Both breeds have enjoyed celebrity because of their size and usually calm demeanor. The Dane, especially, can be a dog who suffers from anxiety, especially if the world around him changes, so routine is imperative. Also, poorly bred Danes can be aggressive so be sure to find a reputable breeder or get to know any Dane well that you want to adopt.

Mastiffs seem to attract eclectic dog owners such as Bob Dylan, Marlon Brando and Flea of the Red Hot Chili Peppers. Danes have been dogs of presidents, Franklin D. Roosevelt; athletes, Greg Louganis; and comedians, Jim Carey. But giant dogs such as these are not for everyone. There are special considerations when inviting 100 to 200 pounds of canine into your house. Bloat, where the stomach becomes distended, is a health concern for both and they almost always have hip dysplasia. This means that at some point, you抮e going to have to help these big boys up and down steps and into cars. Your car itself is a consideration ?a Mastiff won抰 fit into a Prius. They are fairly low key dogs who train easily but if they do decide to be stubborn, you must be strong enough to control them, though both are sensitive and respond best to positive training. And there are extra costs with big dogs for food, any medication, grooming, and a constant stream of supposedly indestructible toys.

These breeds do not need a lot of exercise but it can be a trial to keep them at a healthy weight. Both tend to be somewhat nocturnal, resting during the day and guarding at night. The Great Dane is a stealth walker and always manages to appear graceful even when looking awkward. The Mastiff walks with a heavy foot and is known to snore loudly. These breeds are friendly and sometimes surprisingly playful. But, despite their excellent family skills and friendly demeanor, you don抰 want to surprise them in their home by climbing through a window. Their original purpose of guarding is still instinctual and any intruder is lucky to get away unscathed.