Still, though this mix is not as popular as other hybrids, there are many great varieties to a dog that has German Shepherd and Mastiff traits. They are loyal and love their owners greatly, and they are also brave and courageous.
The German Shepherd originated in Germany in the late 1800s as a means for herding sheep and protecting the flock. They became internationally known after World War I when returning soldiers told everyone what good dogs they were. dogihub.com
Mastiffs have been around for centuries, with figures from Assyria having mastiff-like drawings from 650 B.C. They hit in Britain from Asia over 2,000 years ago and were used as watchdogs because they were good at guarding livestock and the home from wildlife intruders.
As you can see, the records of these dogs are fascinating and will help you understand this mixed breed a little more, so you can bring a German Shepherd Mastiff mix into your home and make it part of your family with ease.
Table of Contents
What is a Mastiff Shepherd Mix?
Mastiff Shepherd is a unique designer dog hybrid that is usually the product of a GSD and a Mastiff. Because of the large variety of Mastiffs, their physical appearance may vary significantly from one German Shepherd Mastiff mix full-grown dog to another.
Typically, standard defining features include a vast abdomen, large paws, a broad and robust muzzle with folded ears. Because German Shepherd Mastiff mix sizes can vary significantly, you can expect your Mastiff Shepherd to stand between 1.9 – 3 ft (0.6 – 0.9 m).
In terms of German Shepherd Mastiff mix weight, most adults will weigh between 80 – 200 lbs (36 – 91 kg). The English Mastiff German Shepherd mix tends to measure on the larger and heavier side.
Depending on the Mastiff breed, you can expect your Mastiff Shepherd’s coat colors to vary between shades of red, black, brown, and gray. Brindle coat colors are also a possibility; usually, this will happen if you have an English or Neapolitan Mastiff German Shepherd mix.
Mastiff Shepherds Some Important Facts
There are interesting facts about Mastiff Shepherds; You need to know if you are thinking of having this hybrid breed for your home or living space.
Life Span
A German Shepherd Mastiff mix full-grown dog’s life likelihood is 8 – 12 years.
What is Mastiff Shepherd Price?
A German Shepherd Mastiff mix puppy can cost between US$350 – $1100. English and French Mastiff German Shepherd mix usually are the more valuable breeds.
Mastiff Shepherds Health Issues
Consider the following list of health problems connected with Mastiff Shepherds. Most of the issues are a result of the hybrid’s large size.
Joint Problems
Hip and elbow dysplasia are the most popular Mastiff Shepherd joint problems you can expect. These joint problems generally affect large-sized dogs. Lacking exercise and a poor diet may worsen the joints, which can negatively impact your Mastiff Shepherd’s quality of life.
German Shepherd Mastiff mix weight is a significant factor that affects the severity and onset of joint issues; Mastiff Shepherds more vulnerable to contracting these problems the more meaningful and more massive they are. Symptoms include instability in the hind or front leg areas, avoiding exercise, and displays of aggressive behavior from your Mastiff Shepherd when touching the hollow joints.
Cherry Eye
While not always a painful health issue for Mastiff Shepherds, cherry eye can be ugly and unpleasant aesthetically. Cherry eye happens when a dog’s third eyelid prolapses and leaves a visible red lump near the corner of your dog’s eye.
In severe cases, Mastiff Shepherds may experience inflammation, swelling, inflammation, and dryness in the affected eye, which may lead to disease. This health issue is asymptomatic and typically won’t show any signs before arriving.
Bloat (Digestive Issue)
Bloat is a digestive issue known to affect Mastiff Shepherds. Bloat occurs when your dog’s stomach turns on both ends and causes discomfort, indigestion and may lead to early death if left untreated.
Bloat issues can also lead to malnutrition and sudden, unexpected death if left untreated. Signs include frothy saliva, excessive salivation, a noticeable bulge in your Mastiff’s abdomen, coughing, fatigue, and a lack of energy during exercise or play.
How Can I care for My Mastiff Shepherd?
Fur/Coat
The two breeds have similar coats that are short and level with a soft undercoat. German Shepherds get a thicker coat of fur around their neck and tend to be high shedders, particularly during some seasons, while the Mastiff typically doesn’t shed much.
So, it will be dependent on the genes your mix inherits whether you will frequently be vacuuming. Either way, your dog will benefit from daily brushing to keep its coat nice and supple. Coat color will also be dependent upon the powerful gene, but it can vary from black and tan to fawn or apricot color. They will most often have black patches on their faces, which is typical for both breeds.
A Mastiff Shepherd’s coat will typically be a thick mass but is of short-medium length. Tibetan Mastiff mixed with German Shepherd breeds will usually have longer length coats. Though, it should be noted that Mastiff Shepherds are constant shedders and will need regular coat grooming.
Having a vacuum cleaner to clean up loose fur is helpful. Typically, you will need a slicker brush, undercoat rake, and metal comb to groom your Mastiff Shepherd correctly. Use long brush strokes to even out its coat and be prepared to groom this dog 2 – 3 times a week.
Exercise Requirements
Despite a German Shepherd Mastiff mix size, it is a comparably docile dog that does not need much exercise. However, because of genetics, this dog can become cumbersome and overweight if not exercised regularly.
Expect to spend a minimum of 30 – 45 minutes quickly walking your Mastiff Shepherd every day to keep it limber and healthy. 1 – 2 hours of moderate-intensity exercise is the ideal amount of time you should set aside to exercise and play with your Mastiff Shepherd.
Exercising every day will help keep their joints supple and their bones strong so that they can help, their heavy bodyweight. Don’t forget about ways to mentally stimulate your dog to keep them from becoming bored, such as using dog puzzles, guiding them new tricks, or making a barrier course for them to run through.
What is a Mastiff Shepherd’s personality Like?
A German Shepherd Mastiff mix personality can be likened to that of a stubborn, gentle giant. Learn to get a better idea of what you can expect your Mastiff Shepherd to behave like in this section.
Loyal Dog
Loyalty constitutes a significant part of a German Shepherd Mastiff mixed temperament. Mastiff Shepherds are loyal and very protective of their owners and may seem indifferent or hostile in worst cases towards strangers.
They are the family of two historically-known guardian parents, which means they need little training to become fit safeguard and guard dogs. However, if trained and socialized correctly, Mastiff Shepherds can be great guardian companions for small or large houses.
Gentle
It is important to socialize a German Shepherd Mastiff mix puppy early on to train out any aggressive behavior quickly. But usually, Mastiff Shepherds are very docile, relatively quiet dogs and can be safely left with children unsupervised. The Mastiff parent genes give this dog a more laid back, patient, and sweet personality.
Nutrition for the Mastiff Shepherd Mix
Mastiff Shepherds are large dogs, they will require more calories, but there is a balance that has to be maintained; otherwise, your dog could become overweight quickly. If they are overweight, it could cause joint and hip problems.
If you have trouble with knowing what food has the best nutrients for your dog, consult your veterinarian. All dogs need a well-rounded diet full of vitamins, minerals, and protein to stay healthy and vibrant. Keeping a constant supply of freshwater is just as important as the dry food you provide.
