Mastiffs (Complete Pet Owner's Manual)

Contrary to other reviews...If purchased from a responsible breeder..the health issues with these guys are as the book describes... If you purchase from a newspaper or pet shop the health issues as well as behavior issues WILL be much worse than this book describes.


Obvious AKC-influenced point of view from dog lover   February 13, 2002
 9 out of 14 found this review helpful

This book was easily-read and fluent. I found, though, after doing extensive research of primitive wolves, their migration, and trading routes, that the historical origin information is influenced by the American Kennel Club's desire to have this breed known as the original molossar daddy. Not so, according to many veterinarians. The Phoenicians brought some wolf/dogs out of Tibet, first. The Tibetan Mastiff seems to be the grandaddy of them all. From a factual point of view, it is ok, but beware to all that read this book concerning the health issues of the breed. They occur more often than mentioned. They are all too real, and they are due to the AKC's desire to put every dog in a box of physical traits. In the larger breeds it is becoming epidemic. The author seems well-meaning and in love with the dogs. I respect her for this; it is the trait of a true animal enthusiast, but this view could really impede the new owner to the reality of large dogs.
Personally, I suggest Carl Semencic as the reality expert of large dog breeds. I own an American Bully because of this. I hope the AKC continues to leave them alone.
Anyone who would like to argue this should look at the Tosa Inu, a dog of the same size with a longer life span with the athletic ability of a pit bull. They are also not AKC dogs. Do your homework, and then purchase a dog for protection, family bonding, and be open to the world of dogs not in the AKC, about 60% of the world's dog population.


Mastiffs Complete Guide Review   January 28, 2001
 12 out of 13 found this review helpful

I purchased this book several months before aquiring a Mastiff and I found the book to be extremely helpful. It has a vast amout of information stored inside the pages, and you can absolutely not beat the price. I would recommend this book above many other, more expensive, books. It includes numerous pictures, along with much of the information you will need from selecting the best puppy for you to training that puppy.


Reader.   January 16, 2000
 74 out of 74 found this review helpful

When I bought my Mastiff I really hadn't a clue about anything health wise. All I knew was that their disposition was wonderful. I purchased this book along with two other more expensive books and spent more time reading this one than the other two. This is a very well written and in depth book. The author obviously did research and/or knew about the breed. The book is my refrence guide whenever I have a question that I need answered. I would definately say that you will be getting more than you pay for if you buy this book! It tells you everything from the history, to selecting a puppy, nutrition, diseases, training, breeding, all the way to the end of a life for one. It has some beautiful pictures to show you what a Mastiff looks like from the beginning till the heartbreaking end. I fully recommend this book above any that I have read so far!