Mastiffs enjoy free play and daily walks. It is important not to overwork puppies or young adults while growing. For their size, they have comparably low exercise needs.
Mastiffs have a short dense coat that should be brushed around every few days. They have periods of large shedding one or two times per year. During these periods it is recommended to brush more frequently with a strong, toothed comb. The deep wrinkles around the face of the Mastiff should be cleaned and nails should be trimmed regularly.
The Mastiff is good-natured, self-confident and gentle. This breed is extremely intelligent and responds well to patient, consistent training. Mastiffs are courageous, strong, patient, and loving dogs. They take well to gentle training. They also tend to be naturally wary of strangers, so early socialization is helpful.
It is believed that the Mastiff originated in Asia and was brought to the Mediterranean and the rest of Europe via ancient Phoenician traders. Mastiffs are an ancient bred. English mastiffs were brought back to Rome by Julius Caesar. Mastiffs were used in medieval times as hunters, guard dogs, and war dogs. There were estimated only 14 Mastiffs survived WWII in the UK. Afterwards the population was rebuilt, and Mastiffs became more widespread in the world.
