Group 2 · Pinschers & molossoids
Mastiff
The Mastiff is one of the heaviest dog breeds, traditionally an English guard and protection dog. It is calm, dignified and very attached to its family.
Health
These examinations come from the official breeding programme for the breed Mastiff by Dierenwelzijn Vlaanderen (Animal Welfare Flanders). They apply to the puppies’ parents.
In short
Both parents must have 5 examinations:
- 2 DNA tests
- 2 X-ray examinations
- 1 eye examination
The breeding programme also recommends 2 further examinations.
A sample for DNA tests can be taken either with a mouth swab or by a blood sample. To carry out the examinations, the breeder uses a vet or a laboratory. For each examination below, you can see from what age and how often it must be done. Ask the breeder for the results of both parent dogs.
Mandatory examinations (5)
-
Canine multifocal retinopathy 1 (CMR1)
DNA test Once from birth
Official description
- Method
- DNA test
- Gene variant (for the laboratory)
- BEST1: c.73C>T
- Inheritance
- autosomal recessive
-
Degenerative myelopathy (DM)
DNA test Once from birth
Official description
- Method
- DNA test
- Gene variant (for the laboratory)
- SOD1: c.118G>A
- Inheritance
- autosomal recessive
-
Elbow dysplasia (ED)
X-ray Once at least 1 year
Official description
- Method
- X-ray (CT may be recommended, but is not mandatory)
-
Hip dysplasia (HD)
X-ray Once at least 1 year (laxity views: at least 6 months)
Official description
- Method
- X-ray: VD view and laxity view (Vezzoni or PennHIP)
-
Eye disorders
Eye examination Valid for 2 years at least 1 year
Official description
- Method
- General eye examination
Recommended examinations (2)
-
Dominant progressive retinal atrophy (DPRA)
DNA test Once from birth
Official description
- Method
- DNA test
- Gene variant (for the laboratory)
- XM_005632035.3:c.11C>G
- Inheritance
- autosomal dominant
-
Shoulder dysplasia (SD)
X-ray Once at least 1 year
Official description
- Method
- X-ray
The breeding programme also contains the breeding advice for each examination and general rules on inbreeding, the number of matings per stud dog and the use of frozen semen. You can find these in the official document.
Source: breeding programme Mastiff, Dierenwelzijn Vlaanderen, last updated on 18/07/2026.
View the official breeding programme (PDF, in Dutch)
A breeding programme reduces the risk of hereditary conditions, but does not offer a 100% health guarantee.
Translation of the Dutch breeding programme by Puppymakelaar. In case of any difference, the official document prevails.
This breed profile is not a breed sheet within the meaning of the Flemish Breeding Decree (Fokkerijbesluit). The legal rules for breeding this breed are set out in the official breeding programme.
Considerations when buying
According to the breeding programme approved by Dierenwelzijn Vlaanderen, these examinations must be carried out on both parent dogs: Canine multifocal retinopathy 1 (CMR1), Degenerative myelopathy (DM), Elbow dysplasia (ED), Hip dysplasia (HD) and Eye disorders. The breeding programme also lists these recommended examinations: Dominant progressive retinal atrophy (DPRA) and Shoulder dysplasia (SD). According to the breeding programme, BOAS is a hereditary condition for which no generally recognised scientific test is currently available. Dogs with severe breathing problems, too short a stop and narrow nostrils (stenotic nares), diagnosed by a vet, are not used for breeding. A puppy with a Flemish pedigree comes from parent dogs bred according to this breeding programme. Ask for the results of both parent dogs and compare them with the overview above. A Mastiff needs calm daily walks, without overexertion in warm weather. Its short coat is easy to care for.
Questions for the breeder
- Have both parent dogs undergone all the mandatory examinations in the breeding programme, and may I see the results?
- What are the results of both parent dogs for Elbow dysplasia (ED) and Hip dysplasia (HD)?
- Is the general eye examination of both parent dogs still valid? According to the breeding programme: Valid for 2 years.
- Will the puppy receive a Flemish pedigree from a recognised breed registry association?
- How are the puppies socialised before they go to their new home?
Breed-specific challenges
It is calm and good-natured, but so large and strong that good training from an early age is needed. It is often reserved with strangers. Allow for space, food costs and some drool.
More background
General guides that help you understand this breed information and choose well.
