45-150 lbs
24-36"
United States
The French Masti-Bull will be a large to giant breed. His size means that he is meant for owners that have a large home where he can live comfortably and stretch out when needed. He is very lovable and good with children though care must be taken when they interact. A bit stubborn to train, this hybrid is not ideal for first time dog owners. Described as intelligent but ready to learn that their own pace, the French Masti-Bull will need an owner who is willing to take a leadership role in the relationship.
Mastiff-like dogs lived in Asia and date back to 2500 B. C. These dogs were used for hunting lions, fighting in the arenas and in war time. In the Roman Colosseum, they were matched against gladiators, bulls, bears and tigers. In England, they were bred to be guard dogs and excelled at protecting livestock from wolves and other predators. During the 1800s the Mastiff was used in the ring and took part in dog fighting and bull baiting. Also a fearsome fighter and protector in times of war, today's breed is a gentle giant who loves his family and will guard them with is life. The Mastiff joined the American Kennel Club in 1885. The French Bulldog has the tenacity and bravery of his ancestors who fought in the bull-baiting and dog fighting rings. Originally brought to France with the English lace makers who moved there during the Industrial Revolution, these dogs soon had fans in the upper class as well. From England to France to the United States, the breed went through changes in standard, and was accepted into the American Kennel Club with bat ears in tow, in 1898.
The French Masti-Bull often takes after the Mastiff side and is a very large breed. Some may be smaller in stature in size, though both variations will have have deep large jowls with wrinkles and folds in the face. His head will be broad and square. A dark “mask” will be seen around their eyes and nose. The French Masti-Bull will have a sturdy and muscular body with a short, smooth and dense coat with colors including white, brown and black. The French Masti-Bull may have drop ears like the Mastiff parent or erect bat-like ones as seen on the French Bulldog. His tail may be long or short. Just how large he will be will depend on the parental mix and the dominant genes.
The French Masti-Bull has a short, smooth and dense coat that requires little maintenance. Weekly brushing with a slicker brush will be all that is needed to keep him looking dapper and neat. The folds and wrinkles on his face should be cleaned and kept dry. The Mastiff is known to drool and if your hybrid has this trait, skin care will be in the maintenance routine. If there is irritation or redness on your French Mast-Bull's face, consult the veterinarian for care instructions. If the ears fold over, check them often for wax buildup or moisture. The teeth will need to be cleaned a few times a week and the nails clipped twice a month. Train your French Masti-Bull from a young age to sit still during the nail clipping process because the older he gets, the bigger and tougher the nails will be. Rewards for good behavior when young will ensure the grooming routine is a breeze.
The French Mast-Bull is known to be a good watchdog. He may intimidate some people but in reality, they are most often gentle. Early obedience training and socialization with strangers and other dogs is recommended, however. They are usually not barkers but they are not quiet dogs either This hybrid can grunt and snore and also may snort a bit due to the stenotic nares typical of brachycephalic breeds like the French Bulldog. Sometimes stubborn and prone to being just a bit too laid back, the Mastiff personality may be balanced out with the feisty, on the go French Bulldog.
Your French Masti-Bull will enjoy daily walks and although he can be large, his exercise needs are not. A walk about the neighborhood to say hello to humans and canines alike will suffice. He may agree to amble over to the dog park for a meet and greet. This hybrid should not be exercised in the heat - on hot days go for an early morning walk and then again on the cool of the evening. He cannot live in an apartment simply because he is too large. This ambling canine will thrive with a safely enclosed yard to play in and a big home in which to stretch out in.
Written by Kathleen Egger
Published: 12/01/2017, edited: 02/24/2021
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