Miniature Australian Shepherd vs English Mastiff - Breed Comparison

Miniature Australian Shepherd vs English Mastiff - Breed ComparisonMiniature Australian Shepherd is originated from United States but English Mastiff is originated from United Kingdom. Miniature Australian Shepherd may grow 30 cm / 11 inches shorter than English Mastiff. Miniature Australian Shepherd may weigh 97 kg / 213 pounds lesser than English Mastiff. Both Miniature Australian Shepherd and English Mastiff has almost same life span. Both Miniature Australian Shepherd and English Mastiff has almost same litter size. Miniature Australian Shepherd requires Moderate maintenance. But English Mastiff requires Low maintenance

History

miniature australian shepherd - historyUnlike some miniaturized pure dog breeds, the Miniature Australian Shepherd is a breed of its own. The American Kennel Club and the United Kennel Club recognize that the miniature Australian Shepherd is the same as the miniature American Shepherd.

Certain breeding programs to develop the Miniature Australian Shepherd have been established and this dog is a small version of the Australian Shepherd. You can say that the Mini Australian Shepherd was developed in the 1960s and hails from the USA. American ranchers bred small Australian Shepherd dogs to create smaller replicas of the breed.

english mastiff - historyThroughout most of history there have been images created by people of very large, sturdy dogs that they shared their space with. The English Mastiff can trace some part of her ancestry to these same dogs. This breed is thought to have come from the stock of ancient breeds such as the Alpine Mastiff, Pugnaces Britanniae and Alaunt. The Mastiff in general has then become a main descendent of many other breeds of dogs since the 1880’s. The images of these types of dogs goes back to the 5th and 6th century.

There is no genetic evidence linking these dogs to the modern Mastiffs and the English Mastiff, but the resemblance is obvious. There is anecdotal evidence that these Mastiff type dogs were exported from England – the English Mastiff – to Greece to hunt game but were also used as war dogs by the Celts. The Alaunt was probably used the Normans and bred by the Alans. Writings and images throughout these times depicted a dog that looked very much like today’s English Mastiff. Some speculate that the English Mastiff came to the United States of the Mayflower.

There was a decline in the English Mastiff in its homeland in the 1800’s following the Cruelty to Animals Act of 1835 which prohibited owners and trainers from baiting animals. Then in the 19th century, prior to the first World War, systematic breeding programs began with J.W. Thompson. His first English Mastiff was a female named Dorah. Dorah’s ancestors included dogs from Thompson’s Grandfather. Captain John Garnier of the Royal Engineers also had dogs that contributed to the development of the English Mastiff.

During this time some breeders got away from pure type and began to breed for other factors. In the late 1800’s, Edgar Hanbury and Mark Hanbury Beaufoy began restoring the breed to its original soundness. One of their dogs was exported to the US were breeding to soundness continued until the First World War reduced the number of English Mastiffs around the world. By the time the war ended there were no English Mastiffs outside of England.

There was a dog in Canada named Beowulf and direct descendent of imports from Britain, who came to the States after the war and began to re-establish the breed on this continent and registered with the American Kennel Club. Yet as of 1945, the contribution from North

Breeding was stopped again for World War II and started again after the war. Many of these puppies died of distemper. Only one female had pups that were able to grow up into adults. North America sent dogs to England at this time and all of the Mastiffs from that time, could be traced back to Nydia and the 14 North American Mastiffs. Since then the breed has been restored slowly in Europe, North America and everywhere in the world.

The English Mastiff is known by his massive head with a black mask and comes in a wide variety of colors. He is also known as a gentle giant because of his personality and the love he has for his people.

Description

miniature australian shepherd puppy - descriptionThe Miniature Australian Shepherd’s coat is medium-length and is straight or wavy. It comes in a range of colors such as blue or red merle and red or black tricolor. There are white or tan markings as well. He is a small dog, standing at 33 - 46 cm in height and weighing 6 – 16kg.

They have blue or brown eyes but some will even have one eye blue and the other brown. The ears are semi erect, semi floppy and the tail, while essentially left long and feathery, is sometimes docked.

Temperament:

Miniature Australian Shepherds are easygoing dogs who love being with their human families. They get on well with children in the home and are always willing to jump right in for a game.

They’re lively and agile and if its not games they’re busy with, they want to be on a walk. They’re loving and loyal and also eager to please, sensing what their owner wants.

They’re intelligent dogs too and easy to train so it is sure to go well with training and socialization, which is important for any dog. This training and socialization can actually help with problems a dog has such as being very nervous or being too active indoors. They become obedient and manageable wherever they are.

He is also willing to get on with other pets in the house. Just like the larger dog, the mini Australian Shepherd loves to be active and at work.

english mastiff puppy - descriptionThe English Mastiff is a giant dog with a broad head and body. In terms of mass it is the worlds largest dog, just a little bigger that the Saint Bernard. The Great Dane and the Irish Wolfhound are 6 inches taller but do not carry the weight and bulk of the Mastiff. Mostly square in his body and his head with a massive chest and wide set forelegs. The head is square and very large. No matter the color of the coat, the face should have a black mask like the St. Bernard. His eyes and nose are also dark.

Characteristics

miniature australian shepherd dog - characteristicsThe wonderful friendly nature’s of these dogs make them excellent family pets, especially when they have been trained and socialized. They can live in the city or country but they will certainly require being exercised as they are an active breed, wanting to be busy with his human family.

You can’t describe these dogs as low maintenance as they have long, thick hair that sheds and which will also need to be brushed regularly.

If you’re able to provide a good home for this beautiful, lively dog, then he will make you a splendid pet.

Children friendliness

english mastiff dog - characteristicsThe English Mastiff is very happy to play with children. You willl need to be careful with small children as he does not know his size and is likely to sit on them.

Special talents

This lovable giant is noble and loyal. He will protect his family and he will be courageous about it.

Adaptability

This is a big dog but he doesnt live outside. You need a big yard and perhaps a big house. He may not adapt to an apartment.

Learning ability

The English Mastiff is smart and certainly trainable. He can be independent and stubborn at times but he has the ability to learn.

Health Problems

miniature australian shepherd puppies - health problemsYour Miniature Australian Shepherd can enjoy good health if you make sure he has a nutritious diet, he is well exercised and he is happy and content because of the attention you give him. He can easily reach 13 years of age.

Also, say what you like, human beings constantly tampering with animals to produce certain looks has its drawbacks and can create health problems in dogs.

As a pure breed however, these dogs will be more susceptible to some common canine health problems such as hypothyroidism, patellar luxation, obesity, hip dysplasia, vision problems and cancer.

english mastiff puppies - health problemsBeing a massive dog can take its toll on the body’s development and that is certainly true of the English Mastiff. A lot of running is not recommended in the early life of the dog – preferable for the first two years. This could damage the joint’s growth plates and cause him a lot of problems in later years. Too much exercise in this massive dog can hurt him but so can, not enough exercise.

Some of the health issues other than this that the English Mastiff is prone to include:

  1. Calluses –
  2. On their paws. Must be taken care of before infection sets in.
  3. Arthritis

A large dog like the English Mastiff is always prone to pain from arthritic joints. See your vet about pain medication.

Hygroma

A spot under the skin that is swollen and filled with fluid. Can be treated. It is not an infection or contagious.

Hip Dysplasia

Can result in lameness and arthritis.

Caring The Pet

Grooming:

miniature australian shepherd dogs - caringThe mini Australian Shepherd has a long coat with seasonal shedding. You will need to give the coat a good brush twice a week to keep it untangled and to remove loose hair.

Other grooming for your pet will be to check his eyes and ears for infection, check for unusual lumps when you brush him and check for fleas and ticks. Keep his nails trimmed and brush his teeth 2 or 3 times a week to avoid plaque build up.

If you’re wondering how to keep your dog well groomed for the enhancement of this health, people such as your vet or professional groomers will do these grooming tasks for you.

Diet:

Top quality commercially manufactured dog food packed with vitamins and minerals needs to be your choice if you're going to be using these dog foods. Avoid the cheaper brands that use lots of fillers, sugar, salt, colorants and preservatives.

Home-made food is a wonderful treat for a dog and delicious, nutritious and simple ingredients such as boiled chicken, brown rice or pasta and some cooked vegetables chopped up into his dry kibble from time to time will do him wonders.

Sometimes it will also be good to add in a little bit of raw meat too. Make sure there is a bowl of fresh, cool water available to your pet constantly.

english mastiff dogs - caringThis is an enormous dog that grows quickly. It is important to feed them properly as they grow. If he doesn’t get what he needs as a puppy you will not be able to make it up to him later on.

Feeding the puppy

The English Mastiff puppy needs good nutrition for growing properly.

From 12-16 weeks of age feed him 3-4 cups a day of a high protein, high quality dry food. Break this up into 3-4 meals.

From 4 -6 months of age feed him 8-10 cups a day of a high protein, high quality dry food. Break this up into 2-3 meals.

From 6-18 months of age feed him 8-12 cups a day of a high protein, high quality, dry food. Break this up into 2-3 meals.

Feeding the adult

The English Mastiff is still growing from a year to 18 months. Starting at 18 months feed him 10-12 cups a day of high protein, high quality dry food. Break this up into 2 meals.

As your Mastiff ages, cut down on the protein and feed a dry food appropriate for his age.

Points for Good Health

The English Mastiff is a very large dog that should not be allowed to get obese since he is prone to dysplasia. He needs protein throughout puppyhood and until he is about 8-10.

Games and Exercises

This is a couch potato if you let him be. Make sure he gets at least one long walk per day or he will tend to gain weight. Play with them off leash about an hour every day.

Basic Information

Group:
Herding dogs
Molosser dogs
Origin:
United States
United Kingdom
Height Male:
33 - 46 cm
12 - 19 inches
74 - 76 cm
29 - 30 inches
Height Female:
33 - 46 cm
12 - 19 inches
70 - 73 cm
27 - 29 inches
Weight Male:
6 - 16 kg
13 - 36 pounds
68 - 113 kg
149 - 250 pounds
Weight Female:
6 - 16 kg
13 - 36 pounds
54 - 84 kg
119 - 186 pounds
Life Span:
10 - 13 Years
7 - 12 Years
Litter Size:
5 - 9
5 - 10
Size:
Small dog
Giant dog
Other Names:
Miniature American Shepherd, Mini Aussie
Mastiff Old English Mastiff
Colors Available:
red or black tri-color, Blue or red merle
silver-fawn, apricot-fawn, or dark fawn-brindle, fawn
Coat:
Long and thick
fine, smooth
Shedding:
Moderate, Seasonal
Moderate
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Territorial
Courageous, Docile, Friendly, Independent, Loyal, Protective, Quiet, Stubborn
Grooming:
Moderate maintenance
Low maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Moderate
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
No

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Miniature Australian Shepherd vs Corgi - Breed Comparison
  2. Miniature Australian Shepherd vs American Eskimo Dog - Breed Comparison
  3. Miniature Australian Shepherd vs Cardigan Welsh Corgi - Breed Comparison
  4. Shetland Sheepdog vs Miniature Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  5. Toy Australian Shepherd vs Miniature Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  6. Welsh Corgi vs Miniature Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  7. Pomeranian vs Miniature Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  8. Pug vs Miniature Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  9. Miniature Schnauzer vs Miniature Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  10. Papillon vs Miniature Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  11. Miniature Australian Shepherd vs Maltese - Breed Comparison
  12. Miniature Australian Shepherd vs Boston Terrier - Breed Comparison
  13. Miniature Australian Shepherd vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  14. Miniature Australian Shepherd vs Maltipoo - Breed Comparison
  15. Miniature Australian Shepherd vs Cavalier King Charles Spaniel - Breed Comparison
  16. Miniature Australian Shepherd vs Bichon Frise - Breed Comparison
  17. Miniature Australian Shepherd vs Dachshund - Breed Comparison
  18. Miniature Australian Shepherd vs Jack Russell Terrier - Breed Comparison
  19. Miniature Australian Shepherd vs Cockapoo - Breed Comparison
  20. Miniature Australian Shepherd vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  21. Miniature Australian Shepherd vs Cavapoo - Breed Comparison
  22. Miniature Australian Shepherd vs Cavachon - Breed Comparison
  23. Miniature Australian Shepherd vs Mal-Shi - Breed Comparison
  24. English Mastiff vs American Mastiff - Breed Comparison
  25. English Mastiff vs American Molossus - Breed Comparison
  26. English Mastiff vs Cao de Gado Transmontano - Breed Comparison
  27. English Mastiff vs Broholmer - Breed Comparison
  28. Neapolitan Mastiff vs English Mastiff - Breed Comparison
  29. Gaddi Kutta vs English Mastiff - Breed Comparison
  30. Nebolish Mastiff vs English Mastiff - Breed Comparison
  31. Great Dane vs English Mastiff - Breed Comparison
  32. English Mastiff vs Bernese Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  33. English Mastiff vs Anatolian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  34. English Mastiff vs Alaunt - Breed Comparison
  35. English Mastiff vs Bully Kutta - Breed Comparison
  36. English Mastiff vs Alangu Mastiff - Breed Comparison
  37. English Mastiff vs Billy - Breed Comparison
  38. English Mastiff vs Bisben - Breed Comparison
  39. English Mastiff vs American Staghound - Breed Comparison
  40. English Mastiff vs Ciobanesc de Bucovina - Breed Comparison
  41. Newfoundland Dog vs English Mastiff - Breed Comparison
  42. Leonberger vs English Mastiff - Breed Comparison
  43. Irish Wolfhound vs English Mastiff - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds