Mastiff insurance
Discover the benefits of insuring your Mastiff with Agria
Mastiff owner’s guide
Often known as gentle giants, Mastiffs are among the most imposing dog types in the world. With experienced handling, they can be calm, devoted companions - but they’re not a breed for beginners. Their large build can also leave them more prone to certain health conditions as they get older. Some of these may require ongoing treatment, regular vet trips or specialist care. Taking out pet insurance early can help you prepare for unexpected costs and ensure your Mastiff gets the care they need throughout life.
Mastiff quick facts
- Lifespan: 6-10 years (varies by type)
- Weight: 55-100kg+
- Height: 70-91cm
- Common health issues: Eyelid conditions, bloat (GDV), heart conditions, back problems and joint issues
- Country of origin: UK, Europe, and Asia
Note - Mastiffs are classed by The Kennel Club as a Category 3 breed, meaning they have physical characteristics that may be linked to health, pain, or welfare concerns.
The UK's most trusted pet insurer*
We're a Which? Best Buy for Dog Insurance 2026
You can trust us with your Mastiff
Agria's Lifetime Premium £20,000 dog policy has been the highest-scoring Best Buy for 3 years. We are also a Which? Best Buy for our Lifetime and Lifetime Plus dog insurance products. **
*Based on Agria Pet Insurance's number 1 Trustpilot ranking in the category Pet Insurance, correct as of Feb 2026.
** Which? policy score ratings are based on an analysis of policy cover levels conducted in November 2025. Best Buy providers have a high policy score and a good track record for paying claims.
Where do Mastiff dogs come from?
The term Mastiff doesn’t refer to just one breed. Instead, it’s a term for a group of large, working dogs that were developed in different parts of the world for guarding, protection, and holding territory.
Over the centuries, Mastiffs were bred to meet various local needs. Some were used to guard homes, castles, and estates, while others protected livestock or acted as a deterrent to intruders. This led to a variety of types with different backgrounds, sizes, and looks.
Examples of different types include the English and Bullmastiff from England, the Cane Corso and Neapolitan Mastiff from Italy, and the Tibetan Mastiff from the Himalayan regions of Tibet.
Mastiff temperament
Calm
Mastiff's are calm but you have to have clear boundaries, early socialisation is essential.
Loyal
They’re usually affectionate at home, but can be reserved with strangers.
Protective
While they’re not inherently dangerous, they can have strong protective instincts.
Appearance and size
Among the different types, Mastiffs have a lot in common. They’re mostly giant dogs with broad chests, thick necks, and powerful limbs. Many have large heads, expressive eyes, and loose facial skin, giving them a dignified but imposing appearance.
Coats vary by type but they’re generally short and dense, offering protection with minimal grooming needs. Colour ranges widely, from fawn and brindle to apricot and black.
Grooming a Mastiff
Most Mastiff types are low-maintenance when it comes to grooming. Weekly brushing helps remove loose hair and keeps the coat healthy. Some drool more than others, so facial cleaning may be part of daily care.
Routine nail trimming, ear checks, and dental care are especially important, as mobility and comfort are crucial for giant breeds.
Mastiff training
Training a Mastiff is essential and it needs to start from when they’re young – early socialisation helps them distinguish between normal situations and genuine threats. Training should focus on calm responses, loose-lead walking, controlled greetings and reliable recall and obedience.
Like many breeds, Mastiffs respond best to calm authority, consistency, and positive reinforcement. Because of their guarding instincts, training should always prioritise control and reliability over encouraging protection behaviour.
Mastiff health issues
Mastiffs are a Kennel Club Category 3 breed, meaning some of their physical features may be linked to health or welfare concerns. Understanding the conditions they’re more likely to face can help you plan ahead and decide whether lifetime pet insurance is right for your dog.
Eyelid conditions (entropion and ectropion)
Mastiffs can be prone to eyelid problems linked to loose skin around the face and eyes. This can cause irritation or discomfort and may need ongoing treatment or, in some cases, corrective surgery.
Cherry eye
Cherry eye in dogs happens when the gland in the third eyelid becomes visible. It can look worrying and may need veterinary treatment or surgery to manage.
Gastric torsion (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus or GDV)
Like other deep-chested breeds, Mastiffs can be at risk of GDV, where the stomach fills with gas and twists. It can come on very quickly and is a serious emergency that usually needs immediate surgery and follow-up care.
Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM)
This heart condition weakens the heart muscle, making it less effective at pumping blood. It often requires long-term medication, regular check-ups and ongoing monitoring.
Back problems
Mastiffs can develop spinal issues such as degenerative disc disease, which may cause pain, stiffness and reduced mobility. Some dogs need ongoing pain relief or specialist care to stay comfortable.
Hypothyroidism
An underactive thyroid is relatively common in Mastiffs and is usually managed with daily medication and regular vet checks over the long term.
Eye disease
Some Mastiffs may develop conditions such as progressive retinal atrophy, which causes gradual vision loss. While not always painful, it can require ongoing monitoring and support.
Epilepsy
Seizure disorders can occur in Mastiffs and often need lifelong management to help reduce and control episodes.
Cancer
Mastiffs can be more at risk of certain cancers, including osteosarcoma and lymphoma. Treatment can be complex and may involve surgery, chemotherapy or ongoing specialist care.
Joint disorders
These conditions affect how the joints develop, leading to pain, stiffness and reduced mobility. Many dogs need long-term pain relief, physiotherapy or surgery to help manage their comfort.
For dog breeders and puppy buyers, it’s also important to note that Royal Kennel Club recommends checking the puppy’s mum for a number of specific genetic conditions.
Things to consider before getting a Mastiff
With experienced owners, Mastiffs can be calm, steady companions with a strong sense of loyalty. However, they’re not a breed for everyone.
- Not for beginners - Mastiffs are not suitable for first-time owners and require early, consistent training and socialisation.
- Size and strength - Their size and physical strength mean they need confident, calm handling and clear boundaries from the start.
- Long-term commitment - Prospective owners should also be prepared for the practical realities of owning such a large dog, including higher day-to-day costs and a long-term commitment to their care and wellbeing.
Mastiff insurance with Agria
With Agria, it's lifetime, every time
At Agria, we believe pet insurance should last your pet’s lifetime. Our policies provide lifelong vet fees cover for illnesses and injuries. This means that, provided your policy is renewed each year, your maximum benefit will be refreshed, providing cover for ongoing conditions.
So, whatever happens throughout your Mastiffs life, we’ll always be there for you and your dog!
Agria Pet Insurance has been awarded 'best pet insurance overall' from The Telegraph.
Up to £20,000 towards vet bills every year
So your dog can get the care they need.
We pay 98% of claims*
And we can pay your vet directly, so you can focus on your dog.
No increase in your premiums when you claim
So you don’t have to worry about the cost of insurance when you go to the vet.
Free vet video calls, 24/7
Which means help is always on hand if you’re worried.
Dotty about dogs? Get a 5% multi-pet discount when you insure more than one pet with us.
*Based on all Agria Pet Insurance claims received between November 2023 and May 2024.
Want to know about our insurance policies? From multi-pet coverage to pre-existing conditions, we have lifetime insurance options for cats, rabbits, horses, and dogs, including older dogs.
Mastiff FAQs
More dog breeds
Beagle
Loyal and happy-go-lucky, Beagles can thrive in a busy family environment.
Belgian Malinois
An intelligent and highly driven dog breed, also known as the Maligator.
Bichon Frise
Small, fluffy and cheerful, the Bichon is an affectionate companion to all.
Border Collie
You’ll need a lot of energy to match the intelligent, active Border Collie.
Border Terrier
Border Terriers love to explore, mix well with others, and they’re cheeky!
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The friendliest dog you'll ever meet, Cavs love humans almost as much as they love food.
Cavapoo
Sociable and charming, you’re sure to fall in love with a curly Cavapoo.
Chihuahua
The smallest of dog breeds, Chihuahuas are active, alert and cuddly!
Cockapoo
The curly Cockapoo is a fluffy pal that’s guaranteed to make you smile.
Cocker Spaniel
A bundle of joy, Cocker Spaniels are great companions for active families.
Dachshund
Small but mighty, Dachshunds are loyal, playful and frequently vocal.
English Bull Terrier
Mischievous and big-hearted, the English Bull Terrier is a playful character for active owners.
French Bulldog
With a playful, cuddly disposition, the lovable Frenchie is ear to stay.
German Shepherd
Strong, courageous and smart, German Shepherds need lots of stimulation.
Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers are eternal puppies – intelligent, kind and great with children.
Goldendoodle
So much more than a designer dog, Goldendoodles have a lot of love to give.
Great Dane
Towering and affectionate, Great Danes bring majesty and warmth to the right home.
Greyhound
The world’s fastest dog, a Greyhound is actually a lovable, laid-back layabout.
Hungarian Vizsla
An energetic hunting dog, the Vizsla’s a great companion for active families.
Jack Russell Terrier
Compact and athletic, the Jack Russell will bring a ton of fun to your home.
Labradoodle
Social and happy, a curly surprise, you’ll have oodles of love for a Labradoodle.
Labrador Retriever
Gentle, friendly and super-smart, the Lab is the UK’s most popular dog.
Lurcher
Gentle and affectionate, Lurchers love running, and also lounging about.
Maltipoo
Maltipoos are cheerful and charming, and they’re sure to win your heart.
Miniature Schnauzer
In spite of their quizzical look, Schnauzers are bold little characters.
Mixed Breed
Affectionately known as ‘mutts’, mixed breed dogs are a diverse bunch.
Patterdale Terrier
Patterdales are brave and determined little dogs, and also loyal and loving.
Pomeranian
A tiny little ball of fluff, the Pomeranian is a charming little lovebug.
Poodle
Poodles are known for their elegance, but they’re also fun and super smart.
Rottweiler
Strong and confident, the Rottweiler is actually an affectionate, loving breed.
Shiba Inu
Shibas are a cat-like dog, in that they’re independent and quirky, but also loyal.
Shih Tzu
With their charming little faces, Shih Tzus are gentle and playful little beans.
Siberian Husky
A striking-looking dog, the Husky is actually clownishly playful and full of joy.
Springer Spaniel
Full of beans and master of cuddles, Springers are great pals to everybody.
Sprocker Spaniel
Sprockers are smart, mischievous and full of energy – great for active families.
Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Despite their tough exterior, Staffies are playful, loyal and full of energy.
Toy Poodle
The smallest of the Poodle varieties, Toy Poodles are elegant, agile, and intelligent.
Whippet
Sleek, swift and surprisingly snuggly, you’ll love a Whippet. Whippet = good.
Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkies are tiny, fluffy and full of energy. And their spirit is infectious!