Opinions on protective mastiffs

[Seanndenise]

I've had a couple dogs in my life.

It seems to me that there isn't a perfect dog as in will he protect his family.

People want the perfect dog, one that doesn't make a mistake and is on time when ya need him and acts perfect up until that point.

They can't be overly aggressive or quick to be aggressive with strangers but if its owner is somehow fouled, they need the dog to step up.

That's not how it works in the real world.

I do believe that a good percentage of dogs will bite if provoked, especially the large breed dogs, they don't like being messed with or scared, especially when they are mature, 3-4 years old.

I've had a couple Danes that were very nice sociable dogs that wouldn't hurt a flea but if for instance if one of my friends that the dogs knew would get a little rough with me, like wrestling around, it would get their attention real quick, they didn't like any rough housing.
I've found that most dogs are like that at a certain point.

If you want to know if your dog will protect you, just tie him up and have someone wrestle with you, make a lot of noise, I'll bet he won't like it.

I've found that even the sweetest dog in the world that wouldn't hurt a flea that weighs a 180 pounds is more than enough to make people decide to walk on the other side of the street, even though its not needed.

 

[chuckorlando]

Even tying a dog up wont tell you the truth. Some dogs are way more mean when they are leashed, tied, or fenced. If your dogs not trained or have it as part of their being, you have no clue. Even trained to a T or a dog like a Fila is a unproven point that sounds good on paper. Untill real world pressure is on, you only think they will do their job. Their also a huge diff between a dog that will bite and one that will protect. IMO a dog that will protect, has zero issue dying for you. Many dogs put on a show and nip and run. Some even might be some what hard. Till someone punches them in the eye.

 

[dogman#1]

^^^^this is 100% correct. if you want to see what your dog is capable of get it a proper eval... if the dog fails get yourself a gun because your dog wont protect you.

 

[Tiger12490]

^^^^this is 100% correct. if you want to see what your dog is capable of get it a proper eval... if the dog fails get yourself a gun because your dog wont protect you.

Amen...

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[Rugers-Kris]

Ruger has been socialized from 6 weeks but is NOT a friendly dog. He loves his people and noone else. He does not like anyone to get too close for any reason and will let them know it. There is no doubt that he will bite if neccessary and the few incidents we have had, he has stood his ground regardless of what was going on, however, he has never had a person try to "attack him back" so who knows. I have had several dogs in my life (Prior to Ruger they were all all APBT's and one nutty Catahoula Cur LOL) and in my experience, friendly dogs (those that are friendly as a rule) will normally back down in a true attack. I did not get Ruger for a guard dog or protection so it doesn't matter to me but the point I am trying to make is that, he is naturally not friendly. He has bonded to his people and has no use for anyone else. It is just who he is but the upside is that this works perfectly in my lifestyle. I considered having him "tested" but in the end I decided that it really doesn't matter....In the end, I love my dog and if anyone came near us (anywhere) I would be the one to do the protecting and my RUGER P345 does NOT back down.

 

[ragnas]

Some mastiffs have a natural protection about there personality from a little pup.
Some mastiffs have a very good / soft side about them.
Some mastiffs can be both
Some mastiffs grow into a protective nature and some do not

As dogs have changed bc of show, companion, protection, working etc
The temperament of the dogs have changed with it. Our mastiff of today many could not do what they originally were designed for. Many have been produced to be bigger which works on there ability to actually work. Many have been produced to be a more athletic structure where they continue to have the ability to actually work.

Many folks buy dogs bc they fall in love with the beauty of the animal not it function.

A small amount still want the athleticism of the original breed. Most folks could not handle the true temper of a Mastiff breed from when originated.

Hope that helps a bit

This quote does not help in my opinion what was asked by Hank has clearly not been answered here?! Dogs work off energy and body language a working/guarding breed will always instinctively step to the mark in time of need as this is what the particular breed was ear marked for. This instinct or drive however may be dysfunctional or totally diminished in cases where ill treatment, neglect or poor early socialisation had been disrupted, rest assured those that have a guard breed they will put the work in when absolutley necessary regardless.

---------- Post added at 11:53 PM ---------- Previous post was at 11:43 PM ----------

Ruger has been socialized from 6 weeks but is NOT a friendly dog. He loves his people and noone else. He does not like anyone to get too close for any reason and will let them know it. There is no doubt that he will bite if neccessary and the few incidents we have had, he has stood his ground regardless of what was going on, however, he has never had a person try to "attack him back" so who knows. I have had several dogs in my life (Prior to Ruger they were all all APBT's and one nutty Catahoula Cur LOL) and in my experience, friendly dogs (those that are friendly as a rule) will normally back down in a true attack. I did not get Ruger for a guard dog or protection so it doesn't matter to me but the point I am trying to make is that, he is naturally not friendly. He has bonded to his people and has no use for anyone else. It is just who he is but the upside is that this works perfectly in my lifestyle. I considered having him "tested" but in the end I decided that it really doesn't matter....In the end, I love my dog and if anyone came near us (anywhere) I would be the one to do the protecting and my RUGER P345 does NOT back down.

Slight cause for concern, may be good for you but as you stated your dog cares for no one else, what about others that you come into contact with, remember dogs are not rational and it seems to me that this behaviour went unchecked from pup as your dog decides who gets close to his family etc. Now we have a dog of a adult age who has the potential to attack or kill at his leisure regardless of his owners direction.

 

[ragnas]

Ruger has been socialized from 6 weeks but is NOT a friendly dog. He loves his people and noone else. He does not like anyone to get too close for any reason and will let them know it. There is no doubt that he will bite if neccessary and the few incidents we have had, he has stood his ground regardless of what was going on, however, he has never had a person try to "attack him back" so who knows. I have had several dogs in my life (Prior to Ruger they were all all APBT's and one nutty Catahoula Cur LOL) and in my experience, friendly dogs (those that are friendly as a rule) will normally back down in a true attack. I did not get Ruger for a guard dog or protection so it doesn't matter to me but the point I am trying to make is that, he is naturally not friendly. He has bonded to his people and has no use for anyone else. It is just who he is but the upside is that this works perfectly in my lifestyle. I considered having him "tested" but in the end I decided that it really doesn't matter....In the end, I love my dog and if anyone came near us (anywhere) I would be the one to do the protecting and my RUGER P345 does NOT back down.

Slight cause for concern, may be good for you but as you stated your dog cares for no one else, what about others that you come into contact with, remember dogs are not rational and it seems to me that this behaviour went unchecked from pup as your dog decides who gets close to his family etc. Now we have a dog of a adult age who has the potential to attack or kill at his leisure regardless of his owners direction.

---------- Post added 02-26-2013 at 12:02 AM ---------- Previous post was 02-25-2013 at 11:53 PM ----------

When we first got our bullmastiff we got him for the same reasons as you, loyal,loving but a bit of a challenge and also because they are supposed to be protective so we has that reassurance of him letting us know if someone was breaking in etc! So for the first couple of months he was just a dopy little puppy that didn't show any sign of letting us know anyone was at the door so we thought it just wasn't in his nature. Then we moved and since then we can't shut him up! Any little noise, like a car door shutting, and hes letting everyone know there's someone outside! And if he's on the sofa looking out of the window he'll bark at anyone walking past! Still can't believe the change in him but I also know that if someone got in he'd be hopeless and probably just dribble all over them! Still it's nice to know he's guarding us in his own way!

Lol i bet he wouldnt let someone climb through your window. However the things he barks about as you mentioned above may become a headache if you fail to show him what is acceptable to bark at and what is not. You have to show him a car door slamming is not a threat, someone walking past is not a threat, after all he looks to you for direction and is barking not only to let his prescence be known but to alert his master, show him all his over time isnt absolutley necessary.:razzberry:

 

[ragnas]

When we first got our bullmastiff we got him for the same reasons as you, loyal,loving but a bit of a challenge and also because they are supposed to be protective so we has that reassurance of him letting us know if someone was breaking in etc! So for the first couple of months he was just a dopy little puppy that didn't show any sign of letting us know anyone was at the door so we thought it just wasn't in his nature. Then we moved and since then we can't shut him up! Any little noise, like a car door shutting, and hes letting everyone know there's someone outside! And if he's on the sofa looking out of the window he'll bark at anyone walking past! Still can't believe the change in him but I also know that if someone got in he'd be hopeless and probably just dribble all over them! Still it's nice to know he's guarding us in his own way!

Lol i bet he wouldnt let someone climb through your window. However the things he barks about as you mentioned above may become a headache if you fail to show him what is acceptable to bark at and what is not. You have to show him a car door slamming is not a threat, someone walking past is not a threat, after all he looks to you for direction and is barking not only to let his prescence be known but to alert his master, show him all his over time isnt absolutley necessary.:razzberry:

 

[Tiger12490]

Yea Ruger I dont know about that Kronos is pretty chill took him to Petvalu a little store around here where the people just loved him ...not sure he enjoyed the attention but he was fine...now same night guy with a hood came by us briskly walking and he lost it ....a social dog can still have a low threshold for BS and fight till the end...look at some police dogs

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[Geisthexe]

So my Hank is the friendliest dog I've ever had. Too friendly in fact Now obviously I don't ever want him to become aggressive. I always read that mastiffs are protective by nature, which is one of the reasons we chose this breed. Loving, loyal, gentle, great dogs....you know the rest My question is in everyone's option here, have you had a friendly dog step up when they needed to?
** YES I HAVE HAD A MASTIFF STAND UP WHEN NEEDED BUT SHE WAS / IS TRAINED. I HAVE MOSTLY SEEN ONES THAT ARE NOT TRAINED ONLY BARK TO MAKE THEMSELVES LOOK MEAN. I HAVE MYSELF TESTED MASTIFFS. NEO, CC, DOGO, BULL, PRESA AND HAVE SEEN THEM NOT STAND UP TO THE PLATE WHEN NEEDED AND THESE ARE ONES THAT HAVE NOT BEEN TRAINED.
I'm sure he is still to young (10 months) to have protective nature. Just curious if maybe I'll be able to count on him. I live alone with a 2 year old. Just looking for some input And just to make it clear, we did not choose him to be a guard dog. Thanks.
** TO ANSWER YOU HONESTLY AS I DID IN MY PREVIOUS POST, TODAYS MASTIFFS ARE NOT TRUE TO THERE BEHAVIOR THEY HAVE BEEN WASHED OUT DUE TO WHAT FOLKS HAVE DONE TO THEM. IT IS UNFORTUNATE THAT DOGS HAD TO CHANGE SO MUCH THROUGH TIME.

 

[tb44]

Welcome back deb. Lol I thought you abandoned us for Hollywood. Lol

So my Hank is the friendliest dog I've ever had. Too friendly in fact Now obviously I don't ever want him to become aggressive. I always read that mastiffs are protective by nature, which is one of the reasons we chose this breed. Loving, loyal, gentle, great dogs....you know the rest My question is in everyone's option here, have you had a friendly dog step up when they needed to?
** YES I HAVE HAD A MASTIFF STAND UP WHEN NEEDED BUT SHE WAS / IS TRAINED. I HAVE MOSTLY SEEN ONES THAT ARE NOT TRAINED ONLY BARK TO MAKE THEMSELVES LOOK MEAN. I HAVE MYSELF TESTED MASTIFFS. NEO, CC, DOGO, BULL, PRESA AND HAVE SEEN THEM NOT STAND UP TO THE PLATE WHEN NEEDED AND THESE ARE ONES THAT HAVE NOT BEEN TRAINED.
I'm sure he is still to young (10 months) to have protective nature. Just curious if maybe I'll be able to count on him. I live alone with a 2 year old. Just looking for some input And just to make it clear, we did not choose him to be a guard dog. Thanks.
** TO ANSWER YOU HONESTLY AS I DID IN MY PREVIOUS POST, TODAYS MASTIFFS ARE NOT TRUE TO THERE BEHAVIOR THEY HAVE BEEN WASHED OUT DUE TO WHAT FOLKS HAVE DONE TO THEM. IT IS UNFORTUNATE THAT DOGS HAD TO CHANGE SO MUCH THROUGH TIME.

 

[Geisthexe]

this quote does not help in my opinion what was asked by hank has clearly not been answered here?! Dogs work off energy and body language a working/guarding breed will always instinctively step to the mark in time of need as this is what the particular breed was ear marked for. This instinct or drive however may be dysfunctional or totally diminished in cases where ill treatment, neglect or poor early socialisation had been disrupted, rest assured those that have a guard breed they will put the work in when absolutley necessary regardless.

** regnas i have questions for you ... Do you decoy? Do you train dogs? Do you know for a fact that your statement will stand up? Also you ever test your mastiff(s)?

Because i do decoy, train dogs, and have tested many so my statement i will stand behind fully.

 

[tb44]

Welcome back deb. Lol I thought you abandoned us for Hollywood. Lol

not trying to hj but your inbox is full

 

[Geisthexe]

Welcome back deb. Lol I thought you abandoned us for Hollywood. Lol

** Oh NO, no Hollywood yet .. still waiting on when they want to start I has a APA weight pull competition at my home this weekend. It was a blast!!

 

[chuckorlando]

I think you have way way WWAAAAYYYY to much faith in these "guardian" breeds. Every single one of these dogs "should" have it in them. Almost none do. They have been water down. If your breed is not known tostand up in this day and age, like a Fila, or your dog is not trained to stand in the paint, chances are he wont. Period. Thats not even an opinion

This quote does not help in my opinion what was asked by Hank has clearly not been answered here?! Dogs work off energy and body language a working/guarding breed will always instinctively step to the mark in time of need as this is what the particular breed was ear marked for. This instinct or drive however may be dysfunctional or totally diminished in cases where ill treatment, neglect or poor early socialisation had been disrupted, rest assured those that have a guard breed they will put the work in when absolutley necessary regardless.

---------- Post added at 11:53 PM ---------- Previous post was at 11:43 PM ----------



Slight cause for concern, may be good for you but as you stated your dog cares for no one else, what about others that you come into contact with, remember dogs are not rational and it seems to me that this behaviour went unchecked from pup as your dog decides who gets close to his family etc. Now we have a dog of a adult age who has the potential to attack or kill at his leisure regardless of his owners direction.

 

[Geisthexe]

not trying to hj but your inbox is full

Email Clear!!

 

[Rugers-Kris]

Please reread what I said. Ruger is very socialized. He also goes to work with me everyday and has since he was 6 weeks old. He is not an aggressive lunatic, he just isn't friendly. He has not went "unchecked" and what behaviour are you referring to? Because he doesn't care about other people? He doesn't have to. I can take him anywhere at anytime and he is controlled. I just tell people not to bother him. He is well behaved. Are you serious? Attack and kill at his leisure regardless of owners direction? (If that were true I would think it would be more than a "slight" cause of concern) I didn't say that he decides who gets close, I said that when someone approaches us he warns them if they get too close. If I have a desire for Ruger to accept a new person, I can make that happen but it is a process. I have no desire to have strangers standing on top of me so I don't see the issue. I can stand and talk to anyone without issue. He is in my office all day every day and does fine with people moving around. I take him almost everywhere I go. All dogs have different personalities, some are friendly, some are not.
Slight cause for concern, may be good for you but as you stated your dog cares for no one else, what about others that you come into contact with, remember dogs are not rational and it seems to me that this behaviour went unchecked from pup as your dog decides who gets close to his family etc. Now we have a dog of a adult age who has the potential to attack or kill at his leisure regardless of his owners direction.[/QUOTE]

---------- Post added at 09:59 AM ---------- Previous post was at 09:57 AM ----------

I didn't say socialized, I said Friendly. There is a big difference.

Yea Ruger I dont know about that Kronos is pretty chill took him to Petvalu a little store around here where the people just loved him ...not sure he enjoyed the attention but he was fine...now same night guy with a hood came by us briskly walking and he lost it ....a social dog can still have a low threshold for BS and fight till the end...look at some police dogs

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[Rugers-Kris]

I didn't say socialized, I said Friendly. There is a big difference.

Yea Ruger I dont know about that Kronos is pretty chill took him to Petvalu a little store around here where the people just loved him ...not sure he enjoyed the attention but he was fine...now same night guy with a hood came by us briskly walking and he lost it ....a social dog can still have a low threshold for BS and fight till the end...look at some police dogs

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[chuckorlando]

Even if you had a dog that imply hates everyone, that dont mean it's a problem. Maybe I want my dog to bite your ass for no other reason than you jumped MY fence into MY yard. Your you slide through MY door into MY house. I mean any logical person owning such a dog would not allow it to simply roam the streets.

Actually you may be right. My dog eats at least 3 of the neighbors children a week and I make sure to take her by petsmart and the dog park for just random ass cheek bites on total strangers. My absolute favorite thing to do though is release her on children soccer games. Man when them rug rats get to running her agility really gets a chance to shine.

 

[mx5055]

My question is in everyone's option here, have you had a friendly dog step up when they needed to? I'm sure he is still to young (10 months) to have protective nature. Just curious if maybe I'll be able to count on him. I live alone with a 2 year old. Just looking for some input And just to make it clear, we did not choose him to be a guard dog. Thanks.​

Regarding the original question posted; I would like to hear an explanation of what you mean "by stepping up", and "counting on him"????

http://www.mastiff-forum.com/newreply.php?do=newreply&p=111523&noquote=1​