The Mastiff was introduced to ancient Britain by Phoenician merchants in the 6th century BC. They were valued for their loyalty during wars and were used by the ancient Celts when in combat.

During the Roman invasion Mastiffs were taken back to Italy to guard prisoners and property and to fight in the gladiatorial arenas. IT was reported to be Julius Caesars favorite animal and was also used by the great army general Hannnibal.

In King Canutes Forest laws there was a special mention of Mastiff dogs. The law stated that all mastiffs had to have their middle toes removed so that they could not run fast enough to hunt deer - which were, at the time protected by royalty.

British royals kept Mastiffs to protect their estates, releasing them into the gardens at night to deter intruders. Henry VIII is said to have given a Mastiff to Charles V of Spain.

Mastiffs have also been popular for bear-baiting. This "sport," in which dogs attacked chained-up bears, bulls, and sometimes tigers, was especially popular during the time of Queen Elizabeth.

The Mastiff was sometimes known the "Butcher's Dog." Their large appitite made it an impractical pet for anybody who did not have a cheap supply of meat available.

The first Mastiff was brought from Britain to the United States on the Mayflower. The breed didn't gain popularity there until the 1800s, when Mastiffs were frequently used as property guards on plantations.

During both the World Wars, Mastiffs were used to pull ammunition carts at the front lines. However, their popularity due to the amount of food they needed each day. By the late 920s, Mastiffs were close to extinction in Britain, and by the end of World War II, Canada and America sent Mastiffs back to Britain to save the breed. Now, the Mastiffs are well-established in both continents.

About the Author

Diane Mckenzie own 4 mastiff dogs herself. She lives in Scotland and has a website dedicated to Mastiffs at http://www.mastifftips.com