How To Feed An English Mastiff

English Mastiffs grow rapidly in the first eighteen months of their lives. For this reason, proper feeding and caring for them is very important in that period. If your Mastiff lacks proper nourishment in this age, it can’t be compensated later no matter how much healthy food you are feeding him. Being a responsible pet owner, it is expected from you to have complete knowledge about the right feeding of your English Mastiff.

Amount of food and meal frequency for English Mastiff Pups:

Since mastiff puppies grow very quickly, it is mandatory to keep an eye on what they are eating. The following table tells the amount of food and frequency which should be given to mastiff puppies during various stages of puppyhood.

• 4-8 weeks of age 3-4 cups per day divided into 3-4 meals
• 8-12 weeks 4-6 cups per day divided into 3-4 meals
• 12-16 weeks 6-8 cups per day divided into 3-4 meals
• 4 to 6 months 8-10 cups per day divided into 2-3 meals
• 6-18 months 8-12 cups per day divided into 2-3 meals

Keeping an eye on nutrients intake:

A pure meat based diet is recommended for English Mastiffs. For a puppy, 25-27% protein and 12-15% fat content is recommended. Puppies require more protein as compared to adults as puppies show rapid muscle growth. The diet of your Mastiff should contain 21-25 % protein and 8-10 % fat. Feeding more than 21% protein to older mastiffs can result in diseases such as renal and hepatic failure.

Vitamin C supplementation is required for English Mastiffs to avoid any chances of hip dysplasia. It is also advised not to provide your pet extra calcium as it may lead to electrolyte imbalance and skeleton disorders.

Weight management:

A hands-on test can tell whether your dog is overweight or not. Place your hand on the back of dog. Your fingers should be spread downward and thumb should be along with the spine. If you are able to feel his ribs without applying any pressure, the dog has a healthy weight. If you have to press to feel the ribs, it is the indication that the dog has become obese.

If his ribs are visible, your dog is underweight  and should be fed more.

Brands recommendation for English Mastiff:

• Royal Canin
• Pedigree
• Eukanuba
• Jerhigh
• Drools
• Purina

It is important to meet the exercise requirements of your dog. A daily walk or play session will do the work. Since mastiff is a large dog, do not allow him to jump off elevated areas as it may injure his shoulder. Also, don’t allow your mastiff puppy to play on slippery surface so that there are no joint injuries.