Description

One of the foremost working breed of above average size, strong and sturdy

Head

Big and round with a well-developed and scissor bite.

Eyes

Dark brown

Ears

Triangular in shape, set wide apart and carried forwards

Tail

Can be docked if too long

Body

Broad, deeply-chested powerful dog which should not show

Coat

Hard hair, thick and flat with an undercoat, which should not show

Colour

Black with clearly-defined marking to the legs, chest, , eyes and beneath the tail

Sizes

Dogs height 61-68.6 cm (24-27in ) bitches height 58.4-63.5cm (23-25in); weight 50kg(110lb) average

Origin

Descended possibly from the Italian mastiffs in the Middle Ages, and bred in Germany, where it finally gained popularity in the early twentieth century.

Personality

Obedient and brave; an excellent guard dog that will protect its owner; easy to train