Getting a dog from a mastiff rescue home is a kind, compassionate act. An adult dog won't need as much care as a puppy and should already be house trained. Puppies tend to be very active during the night and can be noisy if they miss their mother and litter mates. An adult dog will not have this problem. Getting a puppy means you have to guess at the dog's final size. An adult dog will already be that size. A rescue dog will form a strong bond with his new owner. Rescue centers are often breed specific so if you are looking for a mastiff, you can view several at once. Rescue centers often take dogs from shelters where they will be put to sleep if nobody wants them after a certain period of time. Busy mastiff rescue centers often look for volunteers if you love to look after dogs but do not want one or cannot look after one in your home for whatever reason.
Why are Mastiffs Abandoned in Rescue Centers?
Many mastiff rescue dogs are there because of a change in the circumstances of the owners. A move, new baby, illness or divorce could be the reason, as could the fact that someone bought a puppy and wasn't prepared for how large the dog would grow. That fact is one reason why many purebred dogs end up in such places. Some people don't consider the time, expense and effort it takes to look after a dog and, even though they might have paid $1000 for it, they might feel that it has outlived its usefulness or just not want it any more. It is traumatic for a dog to be placed in a mastiff rescue home and most rescue dogs are able to adapt easily when you take them. Some dogs in care might have other issues or have been badly treated but the rescue center will be able to fill you in on the mastiff's story and circumstances. A mastiff which is shy because of abuse or neglect might prefer a quieter home.
Mastiff Characteristics
Mastiffs are great family dogs and are very affectionate. They make good guard dogs. Mastiffs require a lot of food and plenty of exercise. Mastiffs are variable in character and personality but they tend to be extremely loyal and loving to the family and, if socialized properly, accepting of visitors to your home. You should have a reasonably sized house and a fenced back yard if you are thinking of adopting such a large dog. The mastiff rescue center will be able to answer any questions you have about the care of your dog and will provide you with information about feeding and training.
Mastiff rescue is a noble act and a rescue dog will love you forever. If you are looking for a pet, either a professional mastiff breeder or a mastiff rescue center might be the perfect way to find your new best friend. Choosing a rescue dog does not solve the problem of pet overpopulation but it can mean a wonderful addition to the family and gives the dog a chance it would not otherwise have.
Michael Burrows has been training and caring for Mastiffs for over 20 years. For his highly talked about 10 part mini-course or to find more detailed information how to approach Mastiff rescues visit his site here:
http://www.mymastiffsecrets.com