10 Things You Didn’t Know about The Nebolish Mastiff

In the late 1960s, a group of Canadian breeders got together to develop a new type of dog. The result is the Nebolish Mastiff, a very rare type of Mastiff that’s almost unknown outside of its native Canada. With its impressive height and rippling muscles, the Nebolish Mastiff can look intimating at first glance. In fact, it’s an even-tempered, sweet-natured dog that makes a great family pet. If you’ve ever found yourself wondering about this rarest of all mastiffs, find out more as we reveal ten things you didn’t know about the Nebolish Mastiff.

1. They hail from Canada

The Nebolish Mastiff may be descended from ancient breeds, but it’s actually relatively new to the scene. As digitaldog.com notes, the breed was developed in Canada in the 1960s as part of an endeavor to re-create the multi-talented farm dogs that preceded the likes of the Rottweiler, Pit Bull, Bull Dog, and Bull Mastiff. In an effort to keep the breed as strong and resilient as possible, several different parent breeds were utilized in its development. However, as its breeders have never disclosed the dog’s exact ancestry, its heritage remains something of a mystery. Today, the Nebolish Mastiff is still relatively unknown outside of Canada… or, in actual fact, inside it. Of all the Mastiff breeds, the Nebolish Mastiff is one of the least known and most enigmatic.

2. They’ve been recognized by the ABA

Some people argue that as the bloodline of the Nebolish Mastiff isn’t known outside of breeder’s circles, it doesn’t have a claim to the title of a standardized breed and should still sit under the title of a hybrid. They may have a point, but it certainly hasn’t stopped certain groups awarding the breed official status. According to allthedogbreeds.com, the Nebolish Mastiff has so far been recognized by the American Breeders Association (ABA), the Canada Molosser Association (CMA), and the Dog Registry of America Inc. (DRA). Whether it’ll eventually obtain recognition from larger kennel clubs like the American Kennel Club is something only time will tell.

3. They’re strong, muscular dogs

When muscles were being handed out, the Nebolish Mastiff was first in line. This strong, muscular dog has a solid structure that can make them seem almost intimidating. Although sizes vary across the breed, most measure around 27 to 36 inches at the shoulder and weigh between 95 and 200 lbs. As with most breeds, female Nebolish Mastiffs tend to be slightly smaller than their male counterparts. Other features of note include a short or medium length coat in either fawn, brindle, or silver with black or white markings. Occasionally, you might see a Nebolish Mastiff with a long coat, but this tends to be the exception, rather than the rule.

4. They love to swim

Most dogs love to splash around in a puddle given the chance, but the Nebolish Mastiff takes things to extremes. This is a dog that doesn’t just like to swim, but that positively relishes it. Considering their bodies have almost been designed with the water in mind, it’s little wonder. Not only are their coats well adapted to resisting water, but their paws are even webbed. If ever a dog stood a chance of making it as an Olympic swimmer, the Nebolish Mastiff would be it.

5. They aren’t suited to apartment living

If you live in a tiny studio apartment with no direct access to a yard, then the Nebolish Mastiff is unlikely to thank you for taking it home. This is a big dog with big activity needs. Although they’ll need plenty of structured outdoor exercise, they’ll also appreciate having a large house to bound around in. If the house comes with access to a fenced yard or outdoor enclosure, so much the better. When it comes to exercise, the more the better. As well as requiring around an hour of leashed walks a day, they’ll also benefit from being allowed to run around off the leash in a safe, secure environment. If you’re able to indulge their love for swimming from time to time as well, you’ll have a friend for life.

6. They’re good with children

Although their muscular stature can make them look intimating, Nebolish Mastiffs are actually warm, even-tempered dogs that adapt well to family living. Loyal and protective, they get on well with children and other pets. However, as with all breeds (especially ones of this size), interactions with small children should always be supervised. As puppyfinder.com notes, the breed has a tendency to dominate, so are best suited to owners with plenty of experience in raising and training dogs with strong pack leader instincts.

7. They can live for up to 14 years

Like most crossbreeds, the Nebolish Mastiff is a strong, robust dog with no known genetic health problems. However, that doesn’t mean you can afford to be lax about their health. All dogs are susceptible to developing illnesses, so it’s important to keep up to date with any recommended vaccinations and keep your eyes peeled for any signs of trouble. Providing they remain fit and healthy, most Nebolish Mastiffs can expect to live for around 10-14 years.

8. They’re super smart

The Nebolish Mastiff might have plenty of brawn, but they’ve got their share of brains too. Although they respond best to experienced dog owners who have a background in training dominant dogs, they’re good students with an aptitude for learning new skills and tricks. To keep their brains happy and busy, it’s always a good idea to keep plenty of interactive toys around for them to play with.

9. They’re low maintenance

Grooming some dogs can be a headache. Fortunately, the Nebolish Mastiff is remarkably low maintenance. A quick brush once a week, an occasional bath if they’ve been rolling in something they shouldn’t, a twice-weekly tooth cleaning session, and a quick wipe around their eyes and ears from time to time is all that’s required to keep them ship-shape and shiny.

10. They’re very rare

If you’ve never heard of the Nebolish Mastiff before, let alone seen one in person, then you’re not alone. Despite having been around for the best part of 60 years, the breed is still exceptionally rare… so rare, in fact, it holds the title of the rarest Mastiff in the world.

You can also read:

• 20 Things You Didn’t Know about The Labernese
• 10 Things You Didn’t Know About The Pyrador
• 10 Things You Didn’t Know about The Border Jack
• 10 Things You Didn’t Know About The Aspin Dog Breed
• 20 Things You Didn’t Know About the Daniff