The mastiff is a breed of dog characterized by having a muscular and stocky body. This breed, in turn, has different types, varieties with their own characteristics that, however, share common elements. In fact, some of them are independent races.
If you want to adopt one of these dogs or simply want to find out about their varieties, don't miss this complete list. Discover on our site how many types of mastiff there are and many curiosities about them. Keep reading!
How many types of mastiff are there?
The mastiff is a breed of dog of the Molossian type. There are records of its existence from the second century BC. Over the centuries, either naturally or through human intervention, the breed has developed into distinct settled varieties.
Now, how many types of mastiff are there? The International Cinological Federation recognizes 8 mastiff varieties, most of which come from European countries. They all make up separate breeds, have characteristics of Molossian dogs and have very ancient ancestors.
Next, learn more about each of the types of mastiff dogs.
1. Neapolitan mastiff
The Neapolitan Mastiff is a descendant of a Molossian dog of which there are records from the 1st century after Christ. This variety is recognized as native to Naples, where its official breeding began in 1947.
This type of mastiff measures between 60 and 75 cm at the withers and can weigh between 50 and 70 kilos. It has a powerful jaw, a muscular body and a wide and thick tail. As for the coat, it is short and thick, hard to the touch, in reddish, brown, brindle or gray colours. Due to his alert and faithful personality, he is considered an excellent guard dog
two. Tibetan Mastiff
The Tibetan Mastiff or Tibetan Mastiff is native to that region, where it is used as a guard and companion dog. There are records of this variety since 300 BC, when it lived with nomadic shepherds.
The Tibetan is a dog with a powerful and imposing appearance. Mastiff puppies of this variety take time to reach maturity, as females reach adulthood at 3 years and males at 4. As for its fur, it is rough and thick, more abundant on the neck and shoulders; it can be black, bluish or reddish, either pure or with brown or white spots.
3. Caucasian Shepherd
The Caucasian Shepherd is a dog with a daring personality, used for a long time as a guard dog. It has a heavy-looking large body, as its abundant fur gives the impression of poorly formed muscles. However, he is very strong and a loyal dog.
The fur is dense and thick, more abundant on the neck, where it also accumulates some folds. It presents a varied coloration, always in combination with different colors, such as black, brown and beige; black and auburn, among others.
Although they love outdoor activities, the Caucasian Shepherd also enjoys spending time with his family, so with proper training, they can be quiet companions.
4. Italian Mastiff
The Italian mastiff, also called the cane corso, is descendant of the Roman molosser. It is a medium to large dog with a muscular but elegant appearance. It has a large head with a black nose and a square jaw.
Regarding the coat, this type of mastiff has a black, gray or fawn coloration in a thick and shiny coat. The personality of the Cane Corso is loyal and attentive, making it an excellent guard dog.
5. Spanish Mastiff
Also known as Leon Mastiff, this is one of the best-known types of Spanish mastiffs. Thus, it is originally from Spain, where it has been used as a guard dog for properties or herds. As for its appearance, it has a compact skeleton that gives it a solid and strong appearance, with well-proportioned limbs. The coat is semi-long, smooth and dense, it can appear in shades of yellow, reddish, black, or a combination of the three colors in different quantities.
With regard to personality, Spanish stands out for showing intelligence and having an affectionate character.
6. Pyrenean Mastiff
Among the types of mastiff, the Pyrenean mastiff also has its origin in Spain, where it is used as a guard dog. It is a medium-sized variety with a large head, small eyes and floppy ears.
With respect to the coat, it is thick, dense and each strand is 10 cm long. It comes in white with a dark mask on the face, which is why many people know this variety as " white mastiff". However, there are also some specimens with yellow, brown and gray tones.
7. Broerboel
The broerboel is a breed of molosser of South African origin, which is why it is also called South African mastiff Its origins date back to the year 1600, at which time it was used as a guard dog on farms. It is considered a large breed, as it reaches between 55 and 70 cm at the withers.
As for the coat of this type of mastiff, it is short and shiny in appearance. The color can vary, appearing in shades of sand, brindle and reddish.
8. English mastiff or mastiff
The English mastiff, also called the mastiff, is native to Great Britain, where the breed began to be registered in the 15th centuryHowever, there was an ancestor that was recognized during the Roman invasions of England, so it is suspected that the mastiff is much older.
The breed has a square head and a body of large and imposing bones. His personality is affectionate but, at the same time, he fulfills the role of a guard dog. As for the coat, it is short and rough. It has a fawn or brindle hue, accompanied by a black nose, ears and muzzle, as well as spots of this color around the eyes.
Other unrecognized mastiff types
There are some unrecognized mastiff breeds, they are the following:
Kashmir Mastiff
This mastiff breed is often called bakharwal and is not yet recognized by canine federations. This is a working breed that is raised in the Himalayan mountains, where it is used as a livestock guard dog.
It has a muscular body with a broad chest and long legs, made up of strong bones. The coat is smooth and of medium length, it comes in shades of brown, black and spotted.
Afghan Mastiff
The Afghan mastiff has been used since ancient times as guard dog of the nomadic tribes. However, it has not yet been recognized by the canine federations.
It has a medium-sized body with long, thin legs, which contrast with its muscular torso. The snout is slender and the ears are set back somewhat. As for the coat, it is of medium length, more abundant on the neck and tail, and occurs mainly in sand and light brown tones.
Bullmastiff
The bullmastiff is native to Great Britain and although many classify it as a type of mastiff, the truth is that it is not considered a true mastiff dog, since it was developed from the cross between an old mastiff and a bulldog. Originally, it was used as a guard and ranger dog.
The variety has a symmetrical and strong appearance, although not heavy. The muzzle is short, the profile flat and the jaw strong with bulging cheeks. As for the coat, it is short and rough to the touch, it has reddish, sandy and brindle colors, light or dark, with white spots on the chest and a black mask around the eyes.
With regard to personality, this breed of dog is characterized by being courageous, loyal and faithful, which is why it becomes an excellent companion dog. Also, puppies of this breed gained popularity when celebrities like Bon Jovi and Christina Aguilera decided to adopt dogs of this breed.
