11 Mastiff Breeds for People Who Love Big Dogs
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Mastiff breeds stand out for their immense size and loyal nature. These dogs belong to a group of working dogs known as Molossers, which have ancient origins. In addition to several different mastiff breeds, the Molosser group also includes dogs like the Chinese Shar-Pei, the Great Dane, and the Newfoundland, according to the Canadian Mastiff Club.
Most mastiff dog breeds have a broad head, short muzzle, and heavy bone structure, and they are known for their relatively low-energy nature. But don’t mistake these dogs for being lazy or unintelligent—many mastiff dogs are very smart and alert.
These dogs were often bred to work independently, so early and consistent positive reinforcement training is necessary, especially given that these dogs often weigh 100 pounds or more.
If you’re looking for a giant dog breed, learn more about what makes each of these different kinds of mastiff breeds unique.
1. Mastiff
Weight: 120–230 pounds
Also known as an Old English Mastiff, the Mastiff is best known for being big-boned and well-muscled with a loyal and patient disposition. They usually grow to be 120–230 pounds, making them one of the largest mastiff breeds.
The breed originated in England, where the dogs’ size made them a natural choice as guardians. But the Mastiff was also put to service during World War I and World War II to pull carts loaded with ammunition, according to the Mastiff Club of America (MCA). Today, the Mastiff is often a family pet.
2. Boerboel
Weight: 150–200 pounds
The Boerboel (pronounced BOR-bul) is a breed from South Africa, which is why the dogs are sometimes known as South African Mastiffs. This mastiff breed is athletic and reaches 200 pounds in size.
Plan on at least one long walk each day for your Boerboel, and don’t overlook the importance of building a strong bond through engaging training sessions, since the breed is known for their independent nature.
3. Bullmastiff
Weight: 100–130 pounds
The Bullmastiff is one of the smaller mastiff breeds, but they’re definitely not tiny dogs. These pups typically weigh 100–130 pounds when fully grown. Their smaller stature is due to their breeding: Bullmastiffs were created by crossing Mastiffs with Bulldogs.
While Mastiffs are typically known for being rather docile, the Bullmastiff requires considerable exercise and mental stimulation to be happy and healthy.
4. Cane Corso
Weight: 88–110 pounds
The Cane Corso, also known as the Italian Mastiff, has typical mastiff features, with a large head and muscular build. But these dogs also mature on the smaller side, weighing between 88 and 110 pounds on average.
In general, a Cane Corso is more serious and reserved than other mastiff breeds, but that doesn’t mean they enjoy family time any less. Cani Corsi (the proper plural of Cane Corso) thrive when they have a job to do and their favorite humans by their side.
5. Dogue de Bordeaux
Weight: 99–145 pounds
The Dogue de Bordeaux hails from France, which is why this breed is sometimes referred to as the French Mastiff. They’re easily recognizable for their wrinkly face and solid red coat.
The breed’s gentle temperament and laid-back nature make for a great family dog, but bear in mind that these dogs have a rather short lifespan (5–8 years is common).
6. Neapolitan Mastiff
Weight: 110–150 pounds
The Neapolitan Mastiff turns heads not just because of their size, but because of their droopy, loose skin; heavily wrinkled face; and gorgeous short coat that can be black, tawny, or blue-gray.
Though Neapolitan Mastiffs historically worked as guardians, today they’re known for their legendary laziness. The breed loves to stretch out in the sun and is a frequent napper.
7. Presa Canario
Weight: 84–110 pounds
The Presa Canario is a mastiff breed that originated from the Canary Islands off the coast of Spain and matures to a weight of around 100 pounds.
Plenty of exercise and consistent training are essential for a Presa Canario. This mastiff dog is loyal and devoted to their family, but without proper lifelong socialization they can be reserved around new people.
8. Pyrenean Mastiff
Weight: 120–190 pounds
The Pyrenean Mastiff sports a thick, fluffy coat instead of short and sleek fur—just like their close relative, the Great Pyrenees. The extra protection from the dense coat served as valuable insulation in the breed’s homeland of the Spanish Pyrenees Mountains, where the dogs worked closely with shepherds to guard livestock.
The Pyrenean Mastiff is a relatively rare dog breed but makes an excellent family companion. The breed’s gentle nature means they can be good around kids.
9. Spanish Mastiff
Weight: 140–200 pounds
The Spanish Mastiff was originally bred to keep livestock safe from large predators, so it’s no surprise that these large dogs typically reach between 140 and 200 pounds.
While the Spanish Mastiff looks somewhat similar to the Pyrenean Mastiff, the breed’s short, thick coat comes in a wider range of colors—including yellow, red, black, and fawn—and might have a brindle pattern, according to the breed standard.
True to their guardian nature, the Spanish Mastiff is gentle around their trusted humans but can be aloof around new people.
10. Tibetan Mastiff
Weight: 70–150 pounds
The lion-like look of the Tibetan Mastiff is their most distinguishing feature. The Tibetan Mastiff has a very fluffy double coat that requires much more maintenance than short-haired mastiffs. Their thick coat also limits the dog’s tolerance for strenuous activity in hot weather. That said, this dog thrives in cold weather and snow—as long as it’s not too cold.
11. Tosa
Weight: 100–200 pounds
The Tosa, also known as a Japanese Mastiff, is the largest of the Japanese dog breeds. Unfortunately, this mastiff dog breed was historically used for dog fighting, and without consistent socialization, today’s pet Tosas can be reserved around new people. But with people they love and trust, a Tosa can make a steady and calm companion.
