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Dogs · 9 mins read

19 Different Types of Mastiff Dog Breeds

Adeniyi Adeleye

Adeniyi Adeleye

Updated July 28, 2024

Types of Mastiff Dog Breeds
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Mastiff dogs have existed since time immemorial. And have always held a special place in the hearts of most dog lovers. Dog breeds like the English Mastiff and Bullmastiff. 

The Pyrenean Mastiff is just one of the types of Mastiff dog breeds that exist worldwide today.

This article will detail 20 different types of Mastiff dog breeds you can add to your family.

Therefore, if you plan to add one to your home anytime soon or in the future or are just interested in learning more about it, regardless of whether you plan on owning one or not.

Also, choose the right dog breed to bring into your home. It’s best to consider each breed’s specific needs and characteristics to help you find the right fit.

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If you’re interested in mastiff dogs, check out this guide to learn more.

That is more about some of the different types of mastiff dog breeds.

1. Caucasian Shepherd

by RebaSpike is licensed under CC BY 2.0

The Caucasian Shepherd is a large, imposing dog breed initially bred in the Caucasus Mountains.

These dogs are fiercely loyal and protective, making them excellent guard dogs.

They are also intelligent and trainable, although they can sometimes be independent.

However, Caucasian Shepherds typically have a thick, double coat in various colors, including white, black, and brown.

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These dogs are significant and consequential types of mastiff dog breeds. They stand anywhere from 24 to 33 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh up to 200 pounds.

2. Canary Mastiff

by localpups is licensed under CC BY 2.0

The Canary Mastiff is a large, powerful dog initially bred in the Canary Islands.

These dogs are heavily built, with thick bones and large muscles. They have a short, dense coat that comes in black, brindle, or fawn.

However, the head is large and square, with a short muzzle. The ears are small and close to the head.

The eyes are dark and set wide apart. And the Canary Mastiff is a calm, loyal dog that makes an excellent guard dog.

3. Tibetan Mastiff

by mastino0100 is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

The Tibetan Mastiff is a large, powerful dog with a dense coat that comes in various colors.

They are considered one of the oldest types of mastiff dog breeds known for their loyalty and courage. 

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Moreover, Tibetan mastiffs are used as working dogs in many parts of the world and are excellent guard dogs.

4. Bullmastiff

by Eran Finkle is licensed under CC BY 2.0

The Bullmastiff is a large, short-coated dog breed. They are very muscular with a large head and square jaw.

The coat is usually fawn or brindle, with black shading on the face and ears.

However, they are loyal and protective of their family but can be aggressive if not properly trained.

Bullmastiffs typically weigh between 100-130 pounds and stand 24-27 inches tall at the shoulder.

5. English Mastiff

by Claudio Gennari …’Cogli l’attimo ferma il tempo’ is licensed under CC BY 2.0

The English Mastiff is the world’s largest and heaviest breed of dog. They typically weigh between 150 to 250 pounds. 

Also, they are one of the oldest types of mastiff dog breeds, with a history dating back to ancient Rome.

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English Mastiffs are known for their gentle and loving nature, making them great family pets

However, they can be territorial and protective, so early socialization is essential.

Some common health problems associated with this breed include hip dysplasia and bloat.

6. Argentinian Mastiff

by Ricardo Martins from Gent, Belgium is licensed under CC BY 2.0

The Argentinian Mastiff is a large, dominant dog breed with a robust build. This type of Mastiff was originally bred in Argentina to guard livestock.

The Argentinian Mastiff is an intelligent and loyal dog that makes an excellent guard dog and family pet.

However, this mastiff breed is large and muscular, with a short, thick coat that can be any color.

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The Argentinian Mastiff has a life expectancy of 10-12 years.

7. Dogue de Bordeaux

by Claudio Gennari is licensed under CC BY 2.0

The Dogue de Bordeaux, also called the French Mastiff, is a large, muscular dog with a short, fine coat.

The breed is known for its loyalty and guardian instincts. The Dogue de Bordeaux is an ancient breed popular in France during the Middle Ages.

However, the dog was used in many ways, including a hunting dog and a guard dog. And even as a working dog in some cases.

The Dogue de Bordeaux is still popular in France and other parts of Europe. The breed has also gained popularity in the United States in recent years.

8. German Mastiff (Great Dane)

Photo by mtajmr on Pixabay

The German Mastiff is a large and powerful dog breed originally bred for hunting large game.

These mastiff dog breeds are loyal and protective, making them great family pets.

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German Mastiffs are typically calm and patient but can be stubborn and require firm training.

However, this breed is not for first-time dog owners. Some common health problems associated with the German Mastiff include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and bloat.

9. Bully Kutta (Alangu Mastiff)

by Stephany Ruso is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0

The Alangu Mastiff dog breed is one of the most ancient and popular types of mastiff dog breeds worldwide.

There are seven different types of Mastiff dog breeds, each with its unique history and appearance. 

However, the first type of Mastiff is the English Mastiff, the largest and most well-known type.

The English Mastiff is a gentle giant known for loving and loyal to their family. 

The second type of Mastiff is the French Mastiff, also known as the Dogue de Bordeaux.

This Mastiff is slightly smaller than the English Mastiff but is just as loyal and loving. The French Mastiff has a short, wrinkled face and a large head.

10. American Mastiff

by Monsterpiecekennel is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

The American Mastiff is a large Guardian dog breed. They are gentle with family and children but can be aloof with strangers.

As their name suggests, they are American-bred and rare outside the United States.

And the average weight for an American Mastiff is between 150-250 pounds. They typically live 10-12 years.

11. Brazilian Mastiff

by AJorgeSC is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

The Brazilian Mastiff, the Fila Brasileiro, is a large working breed that was developed in Brazil. 

Although initially bred to catch and hold runaway slaves, they are now better known as loyal and loving family pets.

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These dogs protect their homes and families fiercely and make excellent guard dogs. 

However, they are also brilliant and trainable, though they can sometimes be stubborn.

Brazilian Mastiffs typically weigh between 100 and 130 pounds and stand 24 to 28 inches tall at the shoulder.

12. Italian Mastiff (Cane Corso)

by PoulyLove is licensed under CC BY-NC 2.0

The Italian Mastiff, also known as the Cane Corso, is a large dog breed that originated in Italy.

Though its origins are unknown, it is considered a descendant of the ancient Roman Molosser.

The Italian Mastiff is a muscular and powerful dog known for its loyalty and protective nature. 

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Therefore, this breed is not for everyone, as they require experienced owners who can provide them with firm, consistent training.

13. Korean Mastiff

The Korean Mastiff is also called the Dosa Inu. It is a large and ancient breed of dog that was once used for hunting wild boar.

Moreover, these dogs are still used for hunting in some parts of Korea. But they are also becoming popular as pets.

The Korean Mastiff is a loyal and protective breed that makes a great family pet. However, they can be pretty stubborn and require firm training.

14. Neapolitan Mastiff

by gomagoti is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

The Neapolitan Mastiff is a large, heavy, and imposing dog breed. That is considered to be one of the most ancient of all dogs.

This breed is also called the Mastino Napoletano, Italian Mastiff, or Napoletano.

However, the Neapolitan Mastiff is a powerful and muscular dog. That is used today as a working dog, guard dog, and family companion.

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15. Pyrenean Mastiff

by VirtualWolf is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

The Pyrenean Mastiff is a large, fluffy dog breed from the Pyrenees mountains in France.

They are known for being giants and making excellent family pets. They can be pretty stubborn, so training them can be challenging.

Therefore, if you’re looking for a big, cuddly dog to add to your family, the Pyrenean Mastiff might be the perfect breed!

16. Spanish Mastiff

by Fotosuabe is licensed under CC BY 2.0

Spanish Mastiffs are some of the oldest and most popular mastiff dog breeds. They were initially bred in Spain for hunting and guarding purposes.

These dogs are large and powerful, with short coats that can be brindle or black. Spanish Mastiffs are loyal and protective, making them great family dogs. 

However, they require a lot of exercise and may not be the best breed for first-time dog owners.

17. South African Mastiff (Boerboel)

by H&T PhotoWalks is licensed under CC BY-NC 2.0

The South African Mastiff is a large, powerful dog initially bred for hunting and guarding.

Today, they make great family pets and are known for being gentle giants. 

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Although they are not as common as other mastiff breeds, many still love them.

The South African Mastiff might be the perfect breed for you if you’re looking for a loyal and loving companion!

18. Sarabi Mastiff

by Sina xiave is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

The Sarabi Mastiff is a large, powerful dog initially bred in Africa.

These dogs are known for their strength and size, making excellent guard dogs.

Sarabi Mastiffs are loyal and protective of their families, and they are also good with children.

Therefore, the Sarabi Mastiff is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a big, strong dog to protect your home.

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19. Japanese Mastiff

by Roel Wijnants is licensed under CC BY-NC 2.0

The Japanese Mastiff, also known as the Tosa Inu. It is a large and powerful dog breed originally bred in Japan for dog fighting.

Additionally, these dogs are massive, with some males weighing over 200 pounds.

They are among the most dangerous dog breeds worldwide due to their aggressive nature. 

However, they can be trained to be gentle and loving companions if adequately socialized from a young age.

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