Mastiff Puppies for Sale

Recognized by: AKC, FCI, KC, UKC

About the Mastiff

The Mastiff, often called the English Mastiff, is one of the largest dog breeds in the world, a colossal, heavy-boned dog that is nonetheless calm, dignified, and deeply devoted to its family. Buyers are drawn to the gentle-giant temperament and imposing presence, but the sheer scale of this breed defines ownership: adults commonly weigh well over 150 pounds, so everything from food and medication to a car ride or a vet visit is supersized, and even a friendly bump can knock over a child. Mastiffs are low-energy indoors and need only moderate exercise, which makes them surprisingly manageable, yet their size means they are not truly apartment dogs and puppies must be raised carefully to protect growing joints. Prospective owners should also go in clear-eyed about the breed's short lifespan and its predisposition to costly orthopedic and other health problems. For a patient owner with space, budget, and realistic expectations, the Mastiff is an affectionate, loyal, and steady protector.

Every dog is an individual — genetics, socialization, health, training, and environment matter more than breed averages.

Typical tendencies

Scored against PuppyList’s editorial rubric. Tendencies, not guarantees.

Exercise needsLower than most
Energy levelLower than most
TrainabilityTypical
Grooming effortLower than most
SheddingTypical
BarkingLower than most
Apartment fitLower than most
Good with childrenHigher than most
Good with other dogsTypical
First-time ownersLower than most

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Where this breed shines

  • Calm, gentle temperament and a devoted, watchful family guardian
  • Low indoor energy with only moderate exercise requirements
  • Loyal and generally quiet, tolerant companion when properly socialized

Things to consider

  • Enormous size makes handling, feeding, and veterinary care expensive
  • Short lifespan and a predisposition to serious orthopedic conditions
  • Not suited to small living spaces; needs careful joint-safe growth as a puppy

History

The Mastiff descends from ancient molosser-type war and guardian dogs that have accompanied people for thousands of years, later refined in England as estate guardians and companions. The breed was nearly lost during the World Wars and rebuilt from a small number of dogs, aided by North American stock. The American Kennel Club recognized it in 1885.

Temperament

Calm, dignified, and good-natured, the Mastiff is a devoted family dog and a naturally watchful guardian. It is patient and gentle with its own people, including children, but its protective instinct and enormous size call for early socialization and steady training. Indoors it is typically quiet and easygoing.

Questions to ask a Mastiff breeder

  • Do both parents have OFA hip, elbow, and cardiac clearances?
  • Has the line been screened for cystinuria and eye disease?
  • What is the typical lifespan and cause of death in your dogs?
More buyer-safety guidance →

Health considerations to discuss

Hip and elbow dysplasia. Educational, non-diagnostic; look for OFA hip and elbow evaluations at 24 months or older.

Bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus). Educational, non-diagnostic; giant deep-chested breed, so ask about feeding routines and prevention.

Cardiac disease and cystinuria. Educational, non-diagnostic; ask about OFA cardiac exams and cystinuria DNA testing in the parents.

Informational only — always consult a veterinarian and ask breeders for documentation. Sources: AKC Mastiff breed overview · Mastiff Club of America health testing · OFA health testing database — written by PuppyList editorial

Questions worth asking about any Mastiff litter

  • Can I see the puppy and its mother — in person or on a live video call?
  • What health checks, vaccinations, and vet visits has this litter had?
  • How was the litter raised and socialized?
  • What paperwork comes with the puppy (health records, registry papers if applicable)?
  • What is your deposit, payment, and pickup/transport process?
Read the full buyer safety checklist →

Frequently asked questions

How do I buy a Mastiff puppy on PuppyList?

Browse the Mastiff listings on this page, open one to see photos, details, and the breeder's information, then contact the breeder directly. PuppyList is a marketplace — you arrange the purchase with the breeder yourself.

How much do Mastiff puppies cost?

Listed puppies currently range from $300 to $2,500. Each breeder sets their own price, which varies with the puppy's age, lineage, and location.

How can I tell if a Mastiff breeder is trustworthy?

Contact the breeder, ask for recent photos or a video of the actual puppy, and confirm details before you commit. Never send money before verifying. See our listing guidelines for the full buyer-safety checklist.