Commonly known as gentle giants, Mastiffs are a large, curious, and aloof dog breed. They are one of the largest dogs, and are considered a 'giant breed' but despite their size, are known for their fiercely loyal nature and docile demeanor.
Because they are a large breed dog, they eat a lot and require specific nutrients to keep their big bodies healthy and mobile. The best food for Mastiff dogs is filled with protein, vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Before discussing their macronutrient requirements, as well as the best dog food for Mastiffs, let’s go back to the 7th century to learn more about their breed's history.
About this Breed
History
Mastiffs are a descendant of a dog breed named Molossus, which is an ancient breed that was known to be ferocious guard dogs and war dogs. Descriptions of Molossus dogs date back to the 7th century BC and likely originated in the northern mountains of Asia.
They are recorded in literature throughout the centuries as being used to guard estates and fight beside humans in war. After World War One there was a huge decline in the number of Mastiffs and the large giant breed became practically extinct, except a few in Great Britain. Eventually, new large breeds and crossbreeds were established and the Mastiff is listed as the 28th most popular dog breed in the United States.
What Does a Mastiff Look Like?
Olde English Mastiff
Typically when discussing this breed, we are referring to the traditional Olde English Mastiff. On average, this type of dog measures 30 inches tall and has a rectangular, muscular body. On average, adult females weigh between 120-200 pounds and adult males can weigh between 150-230 pounds. They have a wrinkly forehead, a short muzzle, and hanging ears. Their fur is short and is typically fawn or apricot in color. They have a black mask across their muzzle and occasionally have black markings around the ears and eyes.
The best dog food for English Mastiffs contains high levels of protein balanced with the perfect blend of vitamins and minerals to keep their bones and joints strong.
While this describes the Olde English Mastiff, or what we refer to today as simply Mastiff, there are a few different varieties of the breed.
French Mastiff
The French Mastiff can also be called the Bordeauxdog or Dogue de Bordeaux. Traditionally it is not as tall as the Olde English Mastiff. They also do not have a black mask on their muzzle, but one that is red or brown. Their fur color ranges from a light red (fawn) to a dark brown red (mahogany) and may have white markings on their feet and chest. The best food for French Mastiffs will contain omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids to keep their skin and coat sleek and luxurious. Glucosamine and chondroitin will also contribute to bone and joint health.
Bullmastiff
With British origins, the Bullmastiff is a cross between the now extinct Old English Bulldog and a Mastiff. The English Kennel Club has considered this breed to be a purebred since 1924. A Bullmastiff’s head is smaller than a traditional Mastiff. They require a black mask across its flat muzzle to be considered purebred. Their coat is typically fawn, red, or brindle and has no white markings. The best food for Bullmastiffs will include antioxidants and L-carnitine to keep their immune system strong and their heart healthy.
Neapolitan Mastiff
The Neapolitan Mastiff is of Italian descent. They can be tan, tawny, grey, black, or mahogany and usually have a brindled coat. This breed has no mask on their muzzle and the skin around their face is much looser and droopier than other types. The best food for Neapolitan Mastiffs should have lean protein and minimal carbohydrates to maintain a healthy weight and to encourage the development of muscle mass.
Now that you are familiar with the different variations of this breed, let's take a look at their temperament.
Gentle Giants
As already mentioned, Mastiffs are known to be docile, loyal, aloof, and courageous. While large breed dogs may make others feel scared, Mastiffs are cuddly and friendly. They are protective of their family so can be wary of strangers.
They are known for being a little lazy. Their activity level is considered moderate. They can be suitable for living arrangements that don't have a lot of backyard space, like an apartment or condo, as long as you make sure they are taken for regular walks.
Because of their calm, cuddly demeanor, Mastiffs can be a great family dog. However, their large size does mean they can accidentally knock down a small child or frail senior. They are a great partner for an owner that has the strength to handle their size.
It is important to know that they drool. A lot. While it is easy to clean, you will always need to have a towel on hand to wipe up the mess. Giant breeds are also known to have high levels of flatulence and they snore excessively. So if you're up to the challenge of having a gassy, snoring, drooling pup, a Mastiff is a great choice!
How Much Food Does a Mastiff Eat?
Knowing how to feed these gentle giants is very important. Because of their large size, Mastiff dogs eat a lot and they need high quality nutrition to stay healthy. It's not cheap to feed a Mastiff. So how much do Mastiffs eat? A 12 month Mastiff puppy can eat around 4 cups of dry food per day, while a full grown adult can eat up to 8 cups of food. Let's look into the Mastiff's nutritional needs at each life stage a little further.
Adult Mastiffs
According to the Research Council of the National Academies, a 200 lbs adult Mastiff requires approximately 3,700 calories per day. Mastiffs are considered adults when they reach 12 months old, however, they continue to develop until they are at least 2 years old.
In addition to high protein content, the best diet for an adult Mastiff should contain omega-3 fatty acids to assist with skincare and a healthy cardiac system. Fiber is also important to keep the digestive system in fine form. Calcium will help keep their bones and joints strong and mobile. An adult Mastiff needs steady nutrition without overeating.
Senior Mastiffs
A Senior Mastiff should be eating around 3,600 calories per day, depending on their activity level. Unfortunately, this strong breed has a short life span, and are considered a senior by the time they are 6 years old.
A senior dog still needs a source of protein in their diet, like chicken, but requires less than adults. Extra omega-3 and omega-6, which can be found in salmon oil, will assist in keeping their fur soft and their heart healthy. Higher concentrations of glucosamine and chondroitin will help keep their bones and joints strong and mobile. To maintain a good immune system, senior dogs also need food with higher levels of antioxidants, chelated minerals, and vitamins are important.
Feeding a Mastiff Puppy
The calorie requirement for an English Mastiff puppy that is around 160 lbs is approximately 3,500 daily calories. Mastiffs may be one of the largest dog breeds, but Mastiff puppies are one of the slowest breeds to develop into an adult. Typically it takes up to 2 years before they are considered an adult. This means a Mastiff puppy's nutritional needs are very specific and need to be monitored to ensure their healthy development.
It is important to feed a Mastiff puppy food that is made specifically for a large or giant breed puppy. The food will have less fat content and less protein than adult food to encourage growth at a consistent and steady pace. If Mastiff puppies develop too quickly they can have musculoskeletal issues for the rest of their lives. The best large breed puppy food for English Mastiffs will contain levels of calcium and phosphorus to ensure optimal bone health.
Macronutrients
Macronutrients are an important part of your Mastiff's dietary requirements. The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) lays out the percentage of protein, carbs, and fat that should be found in pet food.
The AAFCO recommends that Mastiff food contains:
- Crude Protein: 22% - 29%
- Carbohydrates: No firm guideline but generally less than 30%
- Crude Fat: 5% - 15%
- Fiber: 5%
Generally, the nutritional needs of Mastiff food should include lean protein, vitamins, and minerals. There should be no by-products, cereal, meal, grain, artificial additives, or GMOs. Calcium, glucosamine, and chondroitin are important at all life stages for a Mastiff to help support bone structure. Probiotics assist with healthy digestion, flatulence, and can reduce bloating. Chicken, turkey, and beef are great protein sources, but fish and lamb are excellent alternatives for dogs with sensitivities or allergies.
Raw Food Diet vs Dry Kibble
While there are proven benefits to a raw food diet, it is recommended a Mastiff be fed a dry kibble diet. Dry kibble contains vitamins, minerals, protein, and fiber which can't always be found in a raw diet. Also, raw food can be quite expensive because a Mastiff eats a lot of food, so dry kibble can be a more economical choice.
Common Health Problems
It is always sad to think that our fur friends are susceptible to illness and disease. However, high quality ingredients in the best dog foods can act as preventative medicine. Mastiffs' most common health issues are a result of their large size.
Canine Cancer
Just like humans, dogs can get cancer as well. Mastiffs are particularly susceptible to Osteosarcoma (bone cancer) and lymphosarcoma (cancer of the lymphomas.) The best course of action to try and prevent cancer is feeding your dog healthy, high-quality food from the very first moment they arrive at your house. Dog foods that contain calcium will help keep the skeletal system strong. Also, antioxidants, which can be found in blueberries and other fruit, will help keep their immune system healthy.
Wobblers Syndrome
Wobblers Syndrome is typically found in large and giant breed dogs. It occurs when the spinal cord is compressed and causes pain at the root of the neck. Unfortunately, it is unknown what causes Wobblers Syndrome, although it is suspected to be related to the rapid development of the body. Another reason to make sure your Mastiff puppy receives consistent, nutritious meals with added vitamins and nutritious sources of protein.
Hip Dysplasia
Hip Dysplasia is very common in large dogs and occurs when the hip joints do not fit comfortably into the hip. It causes the dog to limp, makes it difficult to go up and down the stairs, and can be painful. Hip dysplasia is hereditary, so if you have a breeder, it is recommended you ask about the health history of the mother and other litters. Hip dysplasia can also occur as a result of rapid growth spurts. It is important to feed a young Mastiff at a consistent rate, with lower levels of protein and fat than an adult Mastiff.
Heart Disease
Unfortunately, the Mastiff breed is also known to suffer from heart disease. Choosing food that contains L-carnitine and taurine will help maintain a strong cardiac system. Plus, keeping your senior Mastiff active with regular walks will also decrease the chances of heart disease.
Gastric Dilatation Volvulus (Bloat)
As with many large dog breeds, Mastiffs are known to suffer from gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), more commonly referred to as Bloat. Food that contains probiotics will help overall with your Mastiff’s digestive system. It is also important to not feed your Mastiff immediately before or after vigorous exercise.
Dog Foods for Mastiffs
Below are five recommendations for the best food for a Mastiff. The recommendations are generally geared towards an Olde English Mastiff diet, however, they are appropriate for all types of the Mastiff breed. Ultimately, Olde English Mastiff's nutrition recommendations will be close to French Mastiffs, Bullmastiffs, and Neapolitan Mastiffs because a balanced diet with high quality ingredients is what is best for all breeds.
1. Wag Dry Dog Food
Wag Dry Food is the best dog food for a Mastiff because it contains a minimum of 35% protein. It has no added corn, wheat, or soy and is grain-free. Plus this recipe also has no artificial colors, flavors, or chemical preservatives. Because of its vegetable content, it's filled with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and phytonutrients. It also contains salmon oil and omega-3 fatty acids to keep your dog’s coat shiny and smooth.
If your dog has a sensitive stomach or food allergies, Wag Dry Dog Food is a great brand to try. It is available in 5 different flavors; chicken, beef, lamb, turkey, and salmon. They sell their food in 15 lbs and 30 lbs bags and even offer a 5 lbs trial size.
The main ingredients for the chicken recipe are chicken, chicken meal, lentils, peas, pea protein, and chicken fat. The optimal blend of protein, fat, and natural ingredients makes this the best dog food for Mastiffs that have reached their adult years.
Diamond Natural Premium Large Breed Formula for Adults is a great option for a Mastiff. It is made with cage-free chicken and has a special formula of amino acids to build lean, strong muscles. The food is nutrient rich and made with proprietary probiotics which make the food highly digestible.
Available in 6 lbs, 20 lbs, and 40 lbs bags, this food is specially formulated for large breed adult dogs. It has no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
The chicken and rice formula contains chicken, chicken meal, whole grain brown rice, cracked pearled barley, and ground white rice as its first five ingredients. Diamonds Natural Premium Large Breed Formulas for Adults is the best dog food for Mastiffs that need to build up strong muscles, or need assistance with a healthy digestive system.
The best food for Mastiffs that help promote strong bones and healthy joints is Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food for Large Breed Adult Dogs. This dog food is specifically formulated to improve mobility in large dog breeds. It contains fish oil, glucosamine, and chondroitin which all help produce healthy joints and cartilage. Also, the minerals and vitamins are perfectly balanced to encourage strong bones.
Hill’s Science Diet Dry Food promises you will see mobility improvement in 30 days. The largely shaped kibbles encourage your Mastiff to chew slowly and help reduce the build-up of plaque and tartar. It is sold in a 30 lbs bag so you won’t have to worry about constantly buying Mastiff dog food.
The chicken, brown rice, and barley recipe include the following 5 ingredients; chicken meal, brewers rice, grain sorghum, brown rice, and whole grains. This adult dry dog food is a great option for those that are starting to nurse aching joints.
The best puppy formula for Mastiffs is one that balances protein, carbohydrates, fat, and fiber and does not encourage your pup to grow too big too fast. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Puppy Large Breed Dry Food is designed to meet a Mastiff puppy's nutritional needs. It uses real deboned chicken to provide your pup with the protein they need. It also includes healthy carbohydrates like peas and sweet potatoes. The lifesource bits are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and omega-3 + omega-6 fatty acids. It also contains L-carnitine which assists with a healthy cardiac system.
Sold in 24 lbs bags, the kibble is specifically larger to accommodate a large breed puppy. It encourages them to chew the food and eat slower. Don't forget, the amount to feed your puppy will change as they grow older and gain weight.
Specifically formulated for a large breed puppy, Blue Buffalo Wilderness Dog Food does not contain by-product meals, soy, wheat, corn, artificial colors, or preservatives. Deboned chicken, chicken meal, peas, pea protein, and tapioca starch are the first five ingredients. This is the best dog food for Mastiff puppies until they reach 12 months old. Your puppy will love the delicious flavor of deboned chicken! Again, this is our pick as the best food for Mastiff puppy!
Purina ONE SmartBlend Vibrant Maturity Senior Formula Dog Food is specifically designed to provide nutritional wellness for dogs that are 7+ years old. It is made with real chicken and contains natural sources of glucosamine to support healthy joints. Filled with additional vitamins and minerals, this dog food will help keep your senior Mastiff’s mind sharp and keep their energy levels high. The special formula will help keep their eyes bright, their immune systems strong, their digestive system healthy, and their muscles lean.
This dog food is sold in multiple sizes, including a 31.1 lbs bag so you won’t run out quickly. The crunchy texture of the dry food helps keep your dog’s jaw strong while also encouraging excellent dental hygiene.
There are no fillers and no artificial flavors in this dog food. The first five ingredients are chicken, rice flour, corn gluten meal, chicken by-product meal, and soybean meal. It contains the recommended macronutrients of 28% crude protein, 13% crude fat, and 4.5% crude fiber. Despite their age, Purina ONE Smart Blend Vibrant Maturity Senior Formula will help keep your Mastiff active and healthy.
The Best Dog Food for a Mastiff
While there are many great choices available, it is recommended the best dog food for adult Mastiffs is Wag Dry Dog Food. The variety of flavors available ensures even dogs with sensitivities will find a favorite flavor. The high levels of protein will keep even the largest dogs fueled with energy all day long, while also promoting lean muscle development. In addition, the omega fatty acids will keep your dog’s coat shiny and soft. Make sure to order a trial bag of Wag today and see which flavor your Mastiff likes best!
The best puppy food for Mastiffs is the Blue Buffalo Wilderness. It's designed for large breed puppies and has the perfect amount of protein to ensure your puppy grows at a steady rate. The recipe includes glucosamine and chondroitin, antioxidants, and calcium which all help a young Mastiff grow into a strong, mobile adult.
In Conclusion
Mastiffs are large, loyal dogs that come in a few different crossbreeds. Their gentle nature and moderate activity level make them a great addition to a family, as long as you can handle their strength and size. Because of their shorter lifespan and being prone to health problems, it is important to find the best food for your Mastiff.
The best dog food for Mastiffs includes moderate levels of protein to ensure consistent development. Calcium, glucosamine, chondroitin, fiber, antioxidants, and omega fatty acids are also especially important components of a Mastiff’s diet. Keep this gentle giant strong and healthy by feeding them the best dog food with the highest quality ingredients.
