The German Mastiff were a gentle giant dogs. Back to 36 B.C., the image of a dog similar to the Great Dane appeared on Greek money. The German Mastiff is considered as the 'Apollo of dogs'. In 407 A.D., Asiatic people (the Alans) invaded part of Italy and Spain and German Gaul. The Alans brought big mastiff dogs (especially in Germany) with them. They were considered the dogs of royalty and were very high prized and regarded.
These giant dogs were able of overcoming bears and other wild beasts. They were admired for this reason and that's when the breeding begun. These dogs were crossed with Irish Greyhounds and the result of this cross is the Great Dane that we have today.
The German Mastiff has a high variety of colors. They can be in fawn, black, brindle, blue and harlequin with white and black patches.
Its coat is very short and dense. It is also smooth, glossy, fine coat and is very close to the body.
The German Mastiff is extremely gentle, quite and well-mannered. It is proud, kind and affectionate; it loves anybody and always wants to be around people. It is playful and sweet with children but needs to be socialized and trained to behave very cautiously around them. However, some children might receive an accidental tail whip! It doesn't bark much except when it's required. It is responsible, courageous and loyal; effectively it is a good watchdog. If it is not used to be with other dogs, it can be aggressive with them, especially if they are of the same sex.
They are not best as guard dogs as they are too large to be aggressive and can be dangerous. They are not fit for inexperienced owners. Early obedience is required to refrain it from exerting dominance.
This dog prone to canine hip dysplasia, bloat, skin allergies, skin tumors, cardiomyopathy, CVI also known as Wobbler's Syndrome and VWD (von Willebrands Disease).
This breed is moderate shedder. Grooming once in a while is sufficient. However, to avoid the major chore of bathing this dog, daily brushing is preferable. Nails should always be trimmed. Bathe only when necessary.
These breeds is gentle, calm and typically very easy to train especially when given early socialization and training at a young age. Obedience training is highly recommended for this type of breed. These large breeds should be taught not to lean against people, especially to children. They should be kept on a fenced yard or on leash when taken outdoors.
The German Mastiff will need at least one long daily walk. They can be very adaptable. They can even live in a large apartment and can adapt to being left alone during the day provided that they are given enough exercises and humane companionship in the morning and evening.