American Mastiff

The American Mastiff is a molosser-type dog created by crossing an English Mastiff and an Anatolian Mastiff or Anatolian Shepherd. In 2000, the breed was recognized by the Continental Kennel Club.
History
In an attempt to address issues of hip dysplasia, drooling, and a short lifespan, Fredericka Wagner of Flying W Farms crossed an English Mastiff with an Anatolian Mastiff, a breed known for its intelligence and lengthy lifespan for a large breed. Through selective breeding, Fredericka created the American Mastiff. The American Mastiff looks similar to the English Mastiff. The dog is relatively new, and the breeders have chosen not to register with most breed registries. They can be registered with the Continental Kennel Club, which recognized American Mastiffs in 2000. American Mastiffs were bred to be family dogs, not show dogs. There are eight authorized breeders in North America which comprise the American Mastiff Breeders Council (AMBC) and whose dogs' bloodlines can be traced exclusively back to Flying W Farms. This is not the same as the American Mastiff Panja, which has lines of Pit bull and Rottweiler.<ref name="doglopedia"/>
Description
Appearance
American Mastiff dogs come in fawn, apricot and brindle. Puppies are born dark in color and tend to lighten as they get older. American Mastiffs attain their true color by the age of approximately one year. White markings on the chin, chest and feet are acceptable. All American Mastiffs must exhibit a black mask in order to meet the breed standard.
The head should be wide, heavy and rectangular in shape with high-set rounded ears. A medium-sized muzzle should be well-proportioned to the rest of the head. The neck should be powerful with a slight arch, leading to a straight and muscular back. The chest should be deep, broad and well-rounded. Forelegs should be strong, straight and set well apart, while the hind legs should be wide and parallel. The dog should be 32 to 36 inches at the shoulder with females standing at 28 to 34. Males should weigh a minimum of 160 pounds and females a minimum of 140, but there is no maximum weight.
Temperament
American Mastiffs are generally calm and quiet dogs yet because of their mix their temperament can vary widely. They are loyal and loving dogs who are not usually aggressive unless they need to protect their owners but is still somewhat unpredictable. In a dangerous situation the American Mastiff will stand in between the person the dog is familiar with and the intruder. Though they probably would not choose to exercise daily, a steady routine is better for their health.
Health
Their grooming is easy due to their short-haired and smooth coat. Though they do shed, they shed no more than the average dog. Contrary to some other large breeds, this breed of Mastiff dog will get along perfectly well in any living environment as long as they are exercised daily.

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