English Mastiff vs Bouvier des Flandres - Breed Comparison

English Mastiff vs Bouvier des Flandres - Breed ComparisonBouvier des Flandres is originated from Belgium but English Mastiff is originated from United Kingdom. Bouvier des Flandres may grow 6 cm / 2 inches shorter than English Mastiff. Bouvier des Flandres may weigh 61 kg / 134 pounds lesser than English Mastiff. Both Bouvier des Flandres and English Mastiff has same life span. Both Bouvier des Flandres and English Mastiff has same litter size. Bouvier des Flandres requires Moderate Maintenance. But English Mastiff requires Low Maintenance

Basic Information

Group:
Herding dogs
Molosser dogs
undefined
Belgium
United Kingdom
Height Male:
59 - 70 cm
23 - 28 inches
74 - 76 cm
29 - 30 inches
Height Female:
55 - 70 cm
21 - 28 inches
70 - 73 cm
27 - 29 inches
Weight Male:
27 - 52 kg
59 - 115 pounds
68 - 113 kg
149 - 250 pounds
Weight Female:
25 - 52 kg
55 - 115 pounds
54 - 84 kg
119 - 186 pounds
Life Span:
10 - 12 Years
7 - 12 Years
Litter Size:
5 - 10
5 - 10
Size:
Large
Giant
Other Names:
Flanders Cattle Dog
Mastiff Old English Mastiff
Colors Available:
Black, Brindle, Fawn, Grey
silver-fawn, apricot-fawn, or dark fawn-brindle, fawn
Coat:
Medium length, coarse, shaggy, dense
fine, smooth
Shedding:
Moderate
Moderate
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Territorial
Courageous, Docile, Friendly, Independent, Loyal, Protective, Quiet, Stubborn
Grooming:
Moderate Maintenance
Low Maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Moderate
Hypoallergenic:
Yes
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
No

History

bouvier des flandresThese large dogs have descended from Flemish cattle dogs, and in French, the word Bouvier means herdsman or cattle herder. This is because the dog was used for driving cattle. The Bouvier comes from the Flemish region of Belgium where it was bred as a working farm dog. It is believed that the breed may have come from crossing local farm dogs with imported Irish Wolfhounds, Schnauzers, Tibetan Mastiffs, Brabanters, Griffons and Beaucerons.

It was in 1910 that the first Bouviers appeared at the international dog show in Brussels, with a standard for the breed being adopted in 1912.The American Kennel Club recognized the dog in 1929. It was after World War 11 that Bouviers were brought to America and the American Bouvier des Flandres Club was founded in 1963.

english mastiffThroughout 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

bouvier des flandres puppy - descriptionThe Bouvier is a large compact, well built dog with strong muscled limbs. He stands at roughly 59 to 70 cm high at the withers, weighing between 27 and 52 kg. He has a large head with a thick and abundant coat which is of rough appearance. The coat is mostly black, but you’ll also find a range of other shades such as brindle, grey and fawn.

The back of the dog is level and broad, and is typically wider in female dogs. The back legs are strong and muscular. Some Bouvier des Flandres are born tail-less and this is most attractive. Most Bouvier dog owners used to have the tails docked because of the excellent appearance, but with docking now being banned, the tail is kept long. The muzzle is wide, the nose large, the eyes dark brown and the ears high set and floppy.

The Bouvier is intelligent, energetic and full of confidence while being calm and balanced in temperament. The puppies are vocal and full of antics, but as the Bouvier grows into adulthood, he mellows and becomes a steady family friend who gets on well with each human family member. He loves spending time with his family and becomes both friend and guardian, making a good watchdog too.

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

bouvier des flandres dog - characteristicsThe Bouvier is such an amicable dog and strong and energetic too. He makes the most marvellous companion and will happily adapt to life in the city or in the country, although, with his big size, he is better suited to a home where there is enough space to run around in.

He is loyal, loving and protective and when you make sure to make him an active part of your family, you’ll find in him all the characteristics of a true friend.

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

bouvier des flandres puppies - health problemsThe big teddy-bear of a dog is a healthy breed, but as a large dog, you will need to look out for certain health problems with him.

Hip Dysplasia:

Xrays have been done on many Bouvier des Flandres by the Club and by the Orthopedic Foundation of America and it has been found that a significant percentage of Bouviers were dysplastic. Hip dysplasia is a deformity of the hip joint and many large breed dogs battle with this. It can be very sad for dog lovers as they watch their dog battling to get up after lying down and sometimes lameness in the hind legs.

Dental Disease:

Dental disease is a common problem in many dogs, and the Bouvier isn’t excluded one bit. If you don’t brush your pet’s teeth with special dog toothpaste and toothbrush, there is tartar build-up which can lead to bad breath and gum infection. Dental disease can lead to pain in the teeth and even the loss of teeth. Bad teeth affect the entire body, and the heart, kidneys and joints can all be negatively affected.

Obesity:

The Bouvier is a large dog prone to obesity. This is a serious disease that can lead to all kinds of digestive disorders, back pain as well as heart disease. It can be easy just to give in to your pet’s pleading eyes, but in the long run, excessive weight can spell a host of health problems.

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

Training:

bouvier des flandres dogs - caringYour Bouvier is an intelligent, independent dog and you will be doing him a favor by having him socialized and trained. He becomes such a pleasure to have around, being obedient and willing to respond to your commands.

Exercise:

Every dog, and particularly large dogs like the Bouvier, should be able to rely on a daily walk, a run in the park or on the farm and have special games from his owner. Not only does participating in activities together build a strong bond between dog and owner, its important to avoid boredom and frustration with your dog. You bought him so you therefore have a responsibility toward him.

Grooming:

Your Bouvier des Flandres has a thick, medium-length coat that gets a shaggy look to it. The breed needs regular brushing every second day or so to get rid of loose hairs and to prevent the hair matting. He will require some professional grooming to look and feel his best. With his thick coat, he is hypoallergenic which can be a relief for allergy sufferers.

Diet:

The Bouvier has to be on high-quality dog food, whether you give him home-made food or commercially manufactured food. It has to have the right amount of vitamins and minerals. If you’re unsure about feeding a dog, remember that the amount and type of food you give your pet must be appropriate to your dog’s age, size and energy levels.It can also be wise to know which human foods are bad. Speak to your vet about your dog – they are a minefield of useful information about your pet. Fresh, cool water should be be available at all times.

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.

Comparison with other breeds

  1. English Mastiff vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  2. English Mastiff vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  3. English Mastiff vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  4. English Mastiff vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  5. English Mastiff vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  6. English Mastiff vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  7. English Mastiff vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  8. English Mastiff vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  9. English Mastiff vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  10. English Mastiff vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  11. English Mastiff vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  12. English Mastiff vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  13. English Mastiff vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  14. English Mastiff vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  15. English Mastiff vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  16. English Mastiff vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  17. English Mastiff vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  18. English Mastiff vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  19. English Mastiff vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  20. English Mastiff vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  21. English Mastiff vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  22. English Mastiff vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  23. English Mastiff vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  24. English Mastiff vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  25. English Mastiff vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  26. Bouvier des Flandres vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  27. Bouvier des Flandres vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  28. Bouvier des Flandres vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  29. Bouvier des Flandres vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  30. Bouvier des Flandres vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  31. Bouvier des Flandres vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  32. Bouvier des Flandres vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  33. Bouvier des Flandres vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  34. Bouvier des Flandres vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  35. Bouvier des Flandres vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  36. Bouvier des Flandres vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  37. Bouvier des Flandres vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  38. Bouvier des Flandres vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  39. Bouvier des Flandres vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  40. Bouvier des Flandres vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  41. Bouvier des Flandres vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  42. Bouvier des Flandres vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  43. Bouvier des Flandres vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  44. Bouvier des Flandres vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  45. Bouvier des Flandres vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  46. Bouvier des Flandres vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  47. Bouvier des Flandres vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  48. Bouvier des Flandres vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  49. Bouvier des Flandres vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  50. Bouvier des Flandres vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison