Prepare for unexpected vet bills
The English and Neopolitan Mastiff breeds have become increasingly "pawpular" and combine to create the Englian Mastiff. Both the Neopolitan and English Mastiff are known for their size and strength, which makes the Englian Mastiff a sturdy pooch. The English Mastiff is calm and gentle towards children and their family, though they can become suspicious of strangers. They have a generally low energy level and don't need an extended amount of daily exercise, though they do enjoy the outdoors. Likewise, the Neopolitan Mastiff is also likely to be wary of strangers, though they are a loyal and devoted breed that aims to please their owners.Â
Like their Mastiff parents, the Englian Mastiff is intimidating in appearance, but gentle by nature. They have a low activity level that requires approximately an hour of mental and physical stimulation daily. Because of their protective nature, it's recommended you incorporate some form of socialization activities into your Englian Mastiff's weekly schedule.
Teach your pooch the norms of socialization by training them to become a therapy dog. As a therapy dog, your Englian Mastiff will be exposed to various social situations, as well as a variety of people who will benefit from being in their presence! Becoming a therapy dog is rewarding for both the pup and patients, which is why it’s a “pawtastic” way to keep your Mastiff busy.
If you want your Englian Mastiff to be an official therapy dog, there are steps and training courses you will need to take to get there. For starters, you'll need to teach your pooch how to interact with others calmly and appropriately and you can prove their sociability by having them obtain a certificate. From there, you'll need to enroll in whatever animal-assisted therapy programs you have available to you within your municipality. Depending on your location and the places you would like to volunteer with your pup, the requirements may vary. Look into the institutions you want to volunteer with to learn about their rules and regulations.
Spend an afternoon outdoors with your Englian Mastiff by taking them to a local park where you can enjoy a picnic and some open space to run around. Though Englian Mastiffs don't need strenuous exercise, you can still spend time together relaxing outside and playing games.
To prep for your afternoon at the park, pack a picnic ahead of time. Bring along snacks and a meal for both you and your pup. As this is a special occasion, you may want to pick up a gourmet meal that they can enjoy. You'll also want to pack your pup's favorite toys and some water, so you can tire them out before taking a break and enjoying your meal!Â
Weighted walks involve purchasing either a weighted vest or backpack for your pup to wear while they walk. Weighted walks have many benefits for dogs including building muscle mass and strength, and improving endurance. As a weighted walk is more strenuous than a standard walk, the walks don’t need to be as long. Walk with your pooch from anywhere to 15 to 30 minutes for a sufficient workout.Â
To prepare for this activity, you will need to purchase the weighted vest or backpack. The unit must meet your dog's size requirements. Typically, they are sold based on weight and height. Check online or in person at a pet store to acquire your gear. You'll also need waste bags and a leash for your weighted walks.Â
Englian Mastiffs take after both parent breeds by exhibiting a calm and easy-going personality. This large breed requires only a moderate amount of exercise daily. Exercise should target both their mind and body to help prevent boredom and unwanted behaviors. Keep your Mastiff thinking by including daily obedience lessons into their schedules. To help them get over their wariness of strangers, socialize your Mastiff from an early age.
Thanks to their friendly temperament, your Englian Mastiff can become a therapy dog which is rewarding and beneficial for both themselves and for those they encounter. If you’re looking for a way to spend an afternoon together, pack up a picnic and head out to a nearby park for fun in the sun. On those long days when your Mastiff is alone, occupy them with a puzzle toy. Because of their relatively low energy level, it’s easy to meet the needs of your Mastiff with minimal physical activity coupled with mental stimulation.