By genetics, Mastiffs are a large breed of dog, but despite its gigantic size, it is known to have a heart of gold. Because of a benign and gentle nature, a Mastiff is not only a great companion dog, but also makes a wonderful addition to any home. If you have small children in your home, you might have some initial doubts about bring such a large dog into the home, however, depending upon the age of the child/children, a Mastiff can be a great playmate for children.
A Mastiff is generally very good with children and they appear to the dog as small creatures, which makes the dog act in a gentle manner. Being a patient and loyal dog, you can be assured a Mastiff will be watchful over small children. However, a swipe from its tail can be quite strong, so it is a good idea to keep a watchful eye, lest a child be accidentally knocked over.
Tail swiping is never an act done to deliberately hurt children; a Mastiff, like any other dog, wags its tail out of excitement and when being playful. Whenever the dog wags its tail, whatever it comes into contact with is sure to be knocked over. Bear this in mind, if your Mastiff accidentally swipes your child over with a happy, innocent tail wag.
Even if your Mastiff is not used to being around small children, they quickly learn and adapt in their presence. The best way to integrate your dog with children, is to bring the Mastiff into the home while it is still a puppy and expose them to children of all ages. This will help the Mastiff bond to your children more quickly and vice versa.
A Mastiff does not need to growl or exhibit aggression to scare away any potential home intruders. When a Mastiff is in the presence of small children it is familiar with, it is in a relaxed mode while still being in a protective mindset, which will aid in the protect of your children in any situation that presents danger. Being protective in nature, a Mastiff will always be at the ready to do what it can to protect its family, including children.
Some Mastiffs are calm and placid while around young children, while others feed off the energy of the children and will engage in playful behavior. Depending upon how your Mastiff has been socialized, the dog is prone to gentility without limits.
Though a Mastiff would never intentionally hurt a young child, however, a dominant male could be out to display alpha tendencies. In a situation such as this, the dog will not harm the child, but may grab at an arm or hand to let the child know it does not appreciate being treated in an aggressive or disrespectful way, especially if the child is playing in a rough manner.
If your children behave in an aggressive and hurtful way with your Mastiff, the dog might be prone to reacting in a way of retaliating. It is very important when you have a Mastiff that you socialize them with children and teach your children to treat the dog with kindness, doing so will allow the two to peacefully coexist.
Disclaimer: All information on this site is provided for informational purposes only! By no means is any
information presented herein intended to substitute for the advice provided to you by any health care or other professional
or organization.
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