Description

A compact, thick-set dog; broad, powerful and beautifully ugly

Head

Massive; large head in proportion to its body; an undershot jaw projecting beyond the upper jaw and cheeks extending to the sides of the eyes. The dace should be full of deep folds, with a broad black nose and large nostrils

Eyes

Round and very dark

Ears

Small, thin, folded like rose petals

Tail

Short and carried low

Body

An arched neck with dewlap; short legs; wide-chested

Coat

Fine-textured, short and close

Colour

Any colour is permissible, except black or black and tan

Sizes

Height 30.5-35.6cm (12-14in); dogs weight 24.1-25kg (53-55lb), bitches weight 22.3-23.2 kg (49-51lb)

Origin

A descendent of the ancient Asiatic mastiff, it was developed in medieval Britain

Personality

Charming and good-nature dog, but tenacious when roused