General Appearance:  A large, massive dog, showing grandeur and dignity.  Heavy boned.

Size, Proportion, and Substance:  Height-males, 30 inches or more at the withers; females, 27 1/2 inches or more.

Background:  The Mastiff a true "gentle giant."  He loves his family and adapts to a variety of living conditions.  Mastiffs were bred as guard dogs, so they are naturally wary of new people.  They are a dominant breed, so they may be hesitant with other dogs as well.  Socialization is crucial for an even tempered Mastiff.  Only an experienced dog owner should take on this huge dog.  First time dog owners should start on a smaller scale.