What to Think About Before Getting an American Mastiff Puppy
Thinking about bringing home an American Mastiff? Here's the honest truth: they're incredible dogs — but they're not for everyone.
These gentle giants are affectionate, loyal, and fiercely protective. They're also enormous, drool-prone, and strong-willed enough to test a new owner's patience.
So before you fall in love with those big goofy grins, let's walk through what it actually takes to live with one — the good, the messy, and the "why is there drool on the ceiling."
1. They're Big. And I Mean Really Big
Males can top **200 pounds** and stand over **30 inches** tall. That's not just "large dog" big — that's "need-a-bigger-couch" big.
Here's the thing most people don't think about: the logistics.
Will they fit in your car? Can you lift or support them up the stairs if they get sick or old? Do you have room for a dog that can clear your coffee table with a single tail swipe?
And there's a subtler challenge too. They're sweet — but not always aware of their own size.
“They're not always aware of their size — and 200 pounds of affection can move furniture.”
But big as they are, they don't want to live outside.
2. They're Indoor Dogs at Heart
Despite their size, Mastiffs are homebodies. They want to be near their people — not banished to the backyard.
This is the part first-time owners get wrong most often.
Leave a Mastiff alone too long and you'll come home to drool-smeared walls or a shredded cushion. They bond hard, and isolation stresses them out.
3. Drool Happens — A Lot
Let's get this out of the way early: American Mastiffs drool. Constantly.
Especially when they drink water, get excited, or shake their heads — which they do often, launching ropes of slobber in every direction.
So what does this mean for you? Keep towels in every room.
Quick poll
Be honest — could you live with daily drool on your walls, pants, and furniture?
Now let's talk about how much exercise they actually need.
4. Exercise: Not Too Much, Not Too Little
Mastiffs aren't high-energy dogs — but that doesn't mean they're lazy.
Adult Mastiffs do great with **a couple of short walks a day**, around 20 to 30 minutes each. Enough to stay fit, not enough to wear them out.
Puppies, though, are a completely different story.
5. Training & Socialization Are Non-Negotiable
Because of their size and protective instincts, early socialization isn't optional — it's essential.
You want a Mastiff who stays calm and confident around new people, kids, and other pets. Start young, keep it positive, and expose them to lots of different environments.
Here's the kicker: obedience training isn't just helpful with this breed — it's a safety issue.
You do not want a 150+ pound dog who ignores your commands. They're smart and eager to please, but they'll absolutely test you if you're inconsistent.
The golden rules of Mastiff training
- Start socialization earlyNew people, sounds, surfaces, and animals — all while they're young and impressionable.
- Be calm and consistentThey respond to steady leadership, not shouting or harsh correction.
- Reward the behavior you wantPositive reinforcement builds trust with a sensitive, strong-willed breed.
- Set boundaries before they're grownA rule you skip at 40 pounds becomes a battle at 200.
6. Not Ideal for First-Time Dog Owners
Mastiffs are sensitive and strong-willed at the same time — a tricky combination.
If you're new to dogs or uncomfortable setting boundaries, one may overwhelm you fast. They thrive under calm, confident leadership and shut down under harsh discipline.
Great — now how do they do with kids and other animals?
7. Surprisingly Gentle With Kids — With Supervision
Mastiffs are often wonderful with older children. They're patient, protective, and tend to form deep bonds with the little ones in the house.
But there's a catch: their size makes supervision essential.
Even the sweetest Mastiff can knock a small child over by accident. Young kids should never be left alone with them — not because of temperament, but because of sheer scale.
Older children
GreatPatient, protective, and bonded — a classic gentle-giant match.
Toddlers & young kids
With careLoving, but never leave them unsupervised. Accidental bumps happen.
Other dogs
Good if raised togetherOpposite sexes usually get along best in a two-dog home.
Cats
Fine when socializedMost Mastiffs coexist happily with cats they grew up around.
Living With Other Pets
If raised alongside cats or other dogs, most Mastiffs settle in just fine.
Adding a second dog? Opposite sexes tend to coexist more peacefully. As always, early socialization does the heavy lifting.
Now for the part every owner needs to take seriously: health.
8. Health Matters — Especially Bloat
Like all giant breeds, American Mastiffs come with real health considerations. Knowing them early can save your dog's life.
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Hip Health | |
| Bloat Risk | |
| Eye Health | |
| Joints | |
| Temperament |
9. Messy Eaters and Drinkers
Expect water puddles around the bowl and kibble scattered across the floor. Mastiffs are not dainty diners.
They also drool right into their food and water, so bowls need daily cleaning — trust me, the buildup is fast and unpleasant.
- Feed two smaller meals a day to help prevent bloat
- Clean food and water bowls daily
- Keep a mat or towel under the bowls
- Let them run or play hard right after eating
- Feed one giant meal to save time
10. Grooming Is Simple — But Still Matters
Good news: that short coat is low-maintenance. A weekly brush with a rubber glove keeps loose hair under control.
During shedding seasons, bump it up to daily brushing to stay ahead of the fur.
Weekly ears
Clean them out to prevent infections — big breeds are prone to buildup.
Brush teeth often
A few times a week keeps dental problems at bay.
Monthly nails
Trim them regularly to protect their gait and joints.
Check the folds
Watch skin folds and ears for signs of irritation or infection.
So — is this the dog for you?
The Final Verdict
The American Mastiff is a loyal, loving companion with a calm presence and an enormous heart.
But they're also a huge responsibility — literally and figuratively. They need time, training, space, and a family who understands their quirks.
Pros
You'll love a Mastiff if…
- You want a deeply devoted, protective family dog
- You have space and don't mind a giant sharing your couch
- You're calm, consistent, and comfortable setting boundaries
- You have older kids or supervise young ones closely
- You can handle drool, shedding, and the odd knocked-over lamp
Cons
Reconsider if…
- You're a first-time dog owner still learning the ropes
- Drool and mess are genuine dealbreakers for you
- Your home sits empty most of the day
- You want a jogging or hiking partner with endless energy
- You're on a tight budget — giant breeds cost more to feed and treat
“If you're okay with drool, shedding, and the occasional bumped-over lamp, the Mastiff is one of the most devoted dogs you'll ever meet.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Generally, no. They're sensitive yet strong-willed, and their size means mistakes carry real consequences. They're best suited to owners who've raised dogs before and are comfortable leading calmly and consistently.
Not long, and not often. Mastiffs are true homebodies who bond hard with their people. Extended isolation can lead to stress and destructive behavior. A few hours is fine; full workdays alone are not ideal.
They're not nuisance barkers, but they are protective. Expect a deep, serious bark when something's off — which, with a dog this size, is usually enough to make any visitor pay attention.
Yes, especially with older kids — they're patient and protective. But because of their size, young children should always be supervised around them to avoid accidental bumps and knock-overs.
Usually, when raised together and socialized early. If you're adding a second dog, opposite sexes tend to get along best. Most Mastiffs coexist happily with cats they've grown up alongside.
For most owners, it's the combination of drool, size, and the space they demand — plus the emotional weight of giant-breed health risks like bloat. If you're prepared for all of that, the reward is a devoted companion.
Adults do well with two short walks a day, about 20–30 minutes each. Puppies need far less intense activity to protect their developing joints — avoid heavy running and jumping while they're growing.
Feed two smaller meals instead of one large one, avoid vigorous activity right around mealtimes, and learn the warning signs. If you see a hard, swollen belly and unproductive retching, treat it as an emergency and get to a vet immediately.
Sviatoslav Oleksiv founded The Pets and Love in 2019. A lifelong pet owner and Rhodesian Ridgeback enthusiast, he writes and edits our guides to help fellow pet parents give their animals the best care.
Every guide follows our editorial standards. This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice — always consult a licensed veterinarian about your pet's health.