K-9 LifeSavers

Though mastiffs can appear as large and intimidating dogs, it is a sensitive breed that is good with children and small dogs, and often described by their owners as "their giant teddy bear." Mastiffs are known for their extreme loyalty, and though they are generally a calm and affectionate breed they are capable of protection, generally by placing themselves between their family and the perceived threat, and occasionally pinning down an intruder, though they rarely attack.

The exact origin of the both the term mastiff, and the breed itself is somewhat unclear.  They are part of a category of dogs called "Molossers," large, solidly-build shepherd dogs.  The name derives from Molossia, a sub-region of ancient-Greece, and the first record of this type of this type of dog was a Tibetan mastiff trained for hunting and given to a Chinese emperor in 1121 BC. Mastiffs would later be exported to Mongolia, Mesopotamia and Central Asia where they would mix with local dogs.  It is speculated that the Phoenicians brought Mastiffs to Britain in the 6th Century BC, and those dog bred with Celtic dogs to evolve into the modern Mastiff.

The breed has appearances throughout history such as in 1415 when Sir Peers Legh was wounded in the Battle of Agincourt, his Mastiff stood over him and protected him for many hours of the battle. This courageous dog was returned to Legh's home and was the foundation the Lyme Hall Mastiff's, a pedigree that would heavily contribute to the modern breed five centuries later.  Organized breeding began in the 19th Century, but began to lose popular appeal. 

By the end of WWI, the breed was virtually extinct outside of Great Britain, but slowly breeding began in North America and by 1945 there were 14 dogs breeding.  By that time the rationing of meat in England had stopped all breeding in England, and the few puppies that arrived mostly succumbed to canine distemper. Only one puppy survived the war conditions, and went on to breed with the 14 North American dogs.  From these 15 dogs the breed has gradually been restored in Britain, has become the 28th most popular breed in the USA and can be found worldwide.

Though we knew Mindy was special, after learning how close we were to losing the Mastiff breed, we're doubly happy to have this friendly, happy girl with us!  Though not a purebred, at just a few months, Mindy is already showing signs of being a big girl - it's a good thing she has the personality to match! If you think a big bundle of love would make your home a little happier, give us a shout!