Everyone thinks their dog's breed is the greatest. However, what is right for your family or lifestyle may not be right for someone else. Before you run out and get a dog you must stop and look at your lifestyle. Take a moment and read the following to help you decide if a dog will fit into your life. Before you get that puppy or dog, stop and consider:

Time Commitment: Do you really have time for a dog? Are you willing to give the dog a good home his whole life? What if you move or have a baby? Thousands of pets are given up because of a new child or move. Have you thought about the long-term needs of the dog?

Human Medical Issue: Are there any allergies or medical conditions in your family that could cause issues resulting in having to get rid of the dog?

Cost: Can you afford a dog? After the initial adoption fee there will be the costs of all the basic necessities of owning a large dog.

Housing: Can you properly house your new addition? Mastiffs are indoor dogs. If you don’t want them inside then you don’t really want them.

Lifestyle: Mastiffs want to be with you. They love their masters and are very devoted to them. A small house is suitable as long as the Mastiff goes for walks and plays outside. Owning a Mastiff is a major responsibility, and due to their size and their need to be a major part of your family, they are not the breed for everyone. However, if you determine a mastiff is right for you, they will reward you a million times over with their love.

Grooming: Mastiffs are easily cared for when it comes to grooming. A bath every now and then with regular brushing takes care of their coat. Cutting their nails is important and should be done regularly.

Need: Why do you want a Mastiff? Mastiffs are wonderful companions, but they must be just that, a companion. Because of their laid back demeanor, Mastiffs make wonderful house dogs. However, Mastiffs do slobber, some more than others, and all will slobber after they eat or drink. Mastiffs snore, shed and pass gas, some more than others. Mastiffs are NOT guard dogs. They will protect their family more along the lines of a watch dog rather than a guard dog. Mastiffs can be territorial dogs. They will protect their yard, house, car and family from people or unknown dogs. They want it to be known that this is their yard. They are dogs that can be very good with other dogs and cats, as long as they have had good experiences with them.

Experience: The Mastiff is not for everyone but don’t let that scare you away. They are large, powerful dogs that can be stubborn at times. They adore their family and do well in almost any situation as long as you work with them and don’t give up. If you are a first time dog owner and you decide a Mastiff is right for you, congratulations. You will probably never own another breed.