Lithuanian Hound vs English Mastiff - Breed Comparison

Lithuanian Hound vs English Mastiff - Breed ComparisonLithuanian Hound is originated from Lithuania but English Mastiff is originated from United Kingdom. Lithuanian Hound may grow 15 cm / 5 inches shorter than English Mastiff. Lithuanian Hound may weigh 81 kg / 178 pounds lesser than English Mastiff. Both Lithuanian Hound and English Mastiff has almost same life span. Both Lithuanian Hound and English Mastiff has almost same litter size. Both Lithuanian Hound and English Mastiff requires Low maintenance.

History

lithuanian hound - historyThis attractive dog hails from Lithuania.This is an old dog breed that has been used as a hunting dog.

It is believed that this dog dates way back to the 16th century and that it was developed from the mixing of hound breeds – Bloodhounds, Beagles, Polish Hounds and Russian Hounds.

The numbers of the dogs decreased and in the late 1970s, the Lithuanian Cytological Council developed a kennel facility for restoring Lithuanian Hound numbers, and a standard was also written. This breed is rare and is not usually found outside the Republic of Lithuania.

english mastiff - historyThroughout most of history there have been images created by people of very large, sturdy dogs that they shared their space with. The English Mastiff can trace some part of her ancestry to these same dogs. This breed is thought to have come from the stock of ancient breeds such as the Alpine Mastiff, Pugnaces Britanniae and Alaunt. The Mastiff in general has then become a main descendent of many other breeds of dogs since the 1880’s. The images of these types of dogs goes back to the 5th and 6th century.

There is no genetic evidence linking these dogs to the modern Mastiffs and the English Mastiff, but the resemblance is obvious. There is anecdotal evidence that these Mastiff type dogs were exported from England – the English Mastiff – to Greece to hunt game but were also used as war dogs by the Celts. The Alaunt was probably used the Normans and bred by the Alans. Writings and images throughout these times depicted a dog that looked very much like today’s English Mastiff. Some speculate that the English Mastiff came to the United States of the Mayflower.

There was a decline in the English Mastiff in its homeland in the 1800’s following the Cruelty to Animals Act of 1835 which prohibited owners and trainers from baiting animals. Then in the 19th century, prior to the first World War, systematic breeding programs began with J.W. Thompson. His first English Mastiff was a female named Dorah. Dorah’s ancestors included dogs from Thompson’s Grandfather. Captain John Garnier of the Royal Engineers also had dogs that contributed to the development of the English Mastiff.

During this time some breeders got away from pure type and began to breed for other factors. In the late 1800’s, Edgar Hanbury and Mark Hanbury Beaufoy began restoring the breed to its original soundness. One of their dogs was exported to the US were breeding to soundness continued until the First World War reduced the number of English Mastiffs around the world. By the time the war ended there were no English Mastiffs outside of England.

There was a dog in Canada named Beowulf and direct descendent of imports from Britain, who came to the States after the war and began to re-establish the breed on this continent and registered with the American Kennel Club. Yet as of 1945, the contribution from North

Breeding was stopped again for World War II and started again after the war. Many of these puppies died of distemper. Only one female had pups that were able to grow up into adults. North America sent dogs to England at this time and all of the Mastiffs from that time, could be traced back to Nydia and the 14 North American Mastiffs. Since then the breed has been restored slowly in Europe, North America and everywhere in the world.

The English Mastiff is known by his massive head with a black mask and comes in a wide variety of colors. He is also known as a gentle giant because of his personality and the love he has for his people.

Description

lithuanian hound puppy - descriptionThe Lithuanian Hound is a medium-sized dog which stands at between 53 - 61 cm in height and weighs between 27 to 32kg.

He is a well proportioned, sturdy dog, heavily boned and muscular with straight, strong legs. The coat of the dog is short, smooth and essentially black with some tan markings. He has a large head, bright brown eyes, black nose, deep, broad chest and long, floppy ears with rounded tips. The tail of the dog is long and held low.

Temperament:

The attractive Lithuanian Hound is a sighthound known for his hunting skills which he does with great determination and stamina.

He loves going on the hunt and forms a strong bond with his hunting handler, being reserved with people he doesn’t know. Lithuanian Hounds are generally easy to train and are eager to please. Training and socialization will be easy with a dog like this as he is intelligent and keen to please.They respond well to an owner who is confident, fair, patient and consistent.

His attachment to the family makes him a good watchdog too. After the hunt, he becomes an amicable, friendly, loving dog, loving to spend a quiet evening with his human family. He is energetic and doesn’t take too kindly to sitting around for long periods. He loves to be on the go and will require a good deal of vigorous exercise.

english mastiff puppy - descriptionThe English Mastiff is a giant dog with a broad head and body. In terms of mass it is the worlds largest dog, just a little bigger that the Saint Bernard. The Great Dane and the Irish Wolfhound are 6 inches taller but do not carry the weight and bulk of the Mastiff. Mostly square in his body and his head with a massive chest and wide set forelegs. The head is square and very large. No matter the color of the coat, the face should have a black mask like the St. Bernard. His eyes and nose are also dark.

Characteristics

lithuanian hound dog - characteristicsThe Lithuanian Hound has always been a dog used for hunting, so he wants to belong to a family where hunting is still practiced or where there is a large garden.

He is smart and easy to train, and what’s more he’s a healthy, robust, low maintenance dog. He’s an amicable dog too, calm, independent and confident, and will make a splendid companion to his human family. He gets on well with children and is willing to share his space with other dogs too.

By choosing the Lithuanian Hound, you’re allowing a wonderful canine friend into your home and heart.

Children friendliness

english mastiff dog - characteristicsThe English Mastiff is very happy to play with children. You willl need to be careful with small children as he does not know his size and is likely to sit on them.

Special talents

This lovable giant is noble and loyal. He will protect his family and he will be courageous about it.

Adaptability

This is a big dog but he doesnt live outside. You need a big yard and perhaps a big house. He may not adapt to an apartment.

Learning ability

The English Mastiff is smart and certainly trainable. He can be independent and stubborn at times but he has the ability to learn.

Health Problems

lithuanian hound puppies - health problemsLithuanian Hounds can reach 12 – 14 years of age when they’re loved and well cared for. You won’t find many medical problems with this robust dog breed, but it pays to know some of the more common dog illnesses.

Hip Dysplasia:

This is a genetic condition that affects the hips and which can lead to painful arthritis. Dogs prone to hip and elbow dysplasia always benefit by avoiding obesity.

Bloat:

Deep chested dogs are more prone to Bloat, occurring when gas builds up in the stomach and can’t escape. This is a life threatening illness and immediate medical attention will be required.

english mastiff puppies - health problemsBeing a massive dog can take its toll on the body’s development and that is certainly true of the English Mastiff. A lot of running is not recommended in the early life of the dog – preferable for the first two years. This could damage the joint’s growth plates and cause him a lot of problems in later years. Too much exercise in this massive dog can hurt him but so can, not enough exercise.

Some of the health issues other than this that the English Mastiff is prone to include:

  1. Calluses –
  2. On their paws. Must be taken care of before infection sets in.
  3. Arthritis

A large dog like the English Mastiff is always prone to pain from arthritic joints. See your vet about pain medication.

Hygroma

A spot under the skin that is swollen and filled with fluid. Can be treated. It is not an infection or contagious.

Hip Dysplasia

Can result in lameness and arthritis.

Caring The Pet

Exercise:

lithuanian hound dogs - caringThis energetic dog is going to want a lot of exercise as he has always been a hunting dog. While a long, brisk walk will be excellent for him, he will want more activity than that. He’ll want to be included in all your activities – walks, hikes, camping trips and swimming.

Grooming:

A big positive with the beautiful, sleek Lithuanian Hound is that he is looked upon as a low maintenance dog. The short coat will require a good brush down twice a week.

He sheds a couple of times during the year. He’s the kind of dog who thrives on these grooming sessions and it’s a time to check him over for ticks and fleas as well as for odd lumps.

Look inside his ears too, particularly since he is a floppy eared dog. Open his mouth too and keep his teeth brushed and clean. There is special canine toothpaste and toothbrush for this purpose. Never try to use human toothpaste as it can be toxic for your dog.

Diet:

There are a number of things to consider when it comes to feeding your dog, but it goes without saying that the best, most nutritious food will ensure health and longevity.

If you feed your pet commercially manufactured pet food, use the feeding guidelines found on the packaging labelling. With any new food types you give your dog, keep an eye on him for reactions.

Your dog’s metabolism and energy levels as well as his age will determine how much to feed him.

There are many excellent dog foods available – choose an excellent one and make sure to feed your dog some tasty, nutritious home-made food too.

You can’t go wrong with some cooked chicken, brown rice or pasta and some raw and cooked vegetables. Chop up and add to his dry kibble from time to time and he’ll be happy and healthy. Raw meat is expensive but try and include some every now and then as it contributes to allergy-free skins, bright eyes, shiny coats, wet noses and wagging tails.

english mastiff dogs - caringThis is an enormous dog that grows quickly. It is important to feed them properly as they grow. If he doesn’t get what he needs as a puppy you will not be able to make it up to him later on.

Feeding the puppy

The English Mastiff puppy needs good nutrition for growing properly.

From 12-16 weeks of age feed him 3-4 cups a day of a high protein, high quality dry food. Break this up into 3-4 meals.

From 4 -6 months of age feed him 8-10 cups a day of a high protein, high quality dry food. Break this up into 2-3 meals.

From 6-18 months of age feed him 8-12 cups a day of a high protein, high quality, dry food. Break this up into 2-3 meals.

Feeding the adult

The English Mastiff is still growing from a year to 18 months. Starting at 18 months feed him 10-12 cups a day of high protein, high quality dry food. Break this up into 2 meals.

As your Mastiff ages, cut down on the protein and feed a dry food appropriate for his age.

Points for Good Health

The English Mastiff is a very large dog that should not be allowed to get obese since he is prone to dysplasia. He needs protein throughout puppyhood and until he is about 8-10.

Games and Exercises

This is a couch potato if you let him be. Make sure he gets at least one long walk per day or he will tend to gain weight. Play with them off leash about an hour every day.

Basic Information

Group:
Hound dog
Molosser dogs
Origin:
Lithuania
United Kingdom
Height Male:
53 - 61 cm
20 - 25 inches
74 - 76 cm
29 - 30 inches
Height Female:
53 - 61 cm
20 - 25 inches
70 - 73 cm
27 - 29 inches
Weight Male:
27 - 32 kg
59 - 71 pounds
68 - 113 kg
149 - 250 pounds
Weight Female:
27 - 32 kg
59 - 71 pounds
54 - 84 kg
119 - 186 pounds
Life Span:
12 - 14 Years
7 - 12 Years
Litter Size:
6 - 12
5 - 10
Size:
Medium dog
Giant dog
Other Names:
None
Mastiff Old English Mastiff
Colors Available:
Black and tan
silver-fawn, apricot-fawn, or dark fawn-brindle, fawn
Coat:
Short and smooth
fine, smooth
Shedding:
Minimal
Moderate
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Sweet, Territorial
Courageous, Docile, Friendly, Independent, Loyal, Protective, Quiet, Stubborn
Grooming:
Low maintenance
Low maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Moderate
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
No

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Pharaoh Hound vs Lithuanian Hound - Breed Comparison
  2. Hungarian Wirehaired Vizsla vs Lithuanian Hound - Breed Comparison
  3. Hungarian Vizsla vs Lithuanian Hound - Breed Comparison
  4. Redbone Coonhound vs Lithuanian Hound - Breed Comparison
  5. Norwegian Elkhound vs Lithuanian Hound - Breed Comparison
  6. Santal Hound vs Lithuanian Hound - Breed Comparison
  7. Podenco Canario vs Lithuanian Hound - Breed Comparison
  8. Podenco Andaluz vs Lithuanian Hound - Breed Comparison
  9. Podenco Galego vs Lithuanian Hound - Breed Comparison
  10. Lithuanian Hound vs Basset Hound - Breed Comparison
  11. Lithuanian Hound vs Basenji - Breed Comparison
  12. Lithuanian Hound vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  13. Lithuanian Hound vs Bluetick Coonhound - Breed Comparison
  14. Lithuanian Hound vs Coonhound - Breed Comparison
  15. Lithuanian Hound vs Bavarian Mountain Hound - Breed Comparison
  16. Lithuanian Hound vs Basset Fauve de Bretagne - Breed Comparison
  17. Lithuanian Hound vs Beagle-Harrier - Breed Comparison
  18. Lithuanian Hound vs English Coonhound - Breed Comparison
  19. Lithuanian Hound vs Anglo-Francais de Petite Venerie - Breed Comparison
  20. Lithuanian Hound vs Alpine Dachsbracke - Breed Comparison
  21. Lithuanian Hound vs Basset Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison
  22. Lithuanian Hound vs Dunker - Breed Comparison
  23. Lithuanian Hound vs Grand Basset Griffon Vendeen - Breed Comparison
  24. Lithuanian Hound vs Chippiparai - Breed Comparison
  25. Lithuanian Hound vs English Foxhound - Breed Comparison
  26. English Mastiff vs American Mastiff - Breed Comparison
  27. English Mastiff vs American Molossus - Breed Comparison
  28. English Mastiff vs Cao de Gado Transmontano - Breed Comparison
  29. English Mastiff vs Broholmer - Breed Comparison
  30. Neapolitan Mastiff vs English Mastiff - Breed Comparison
  31. Gaddi Kutta vs English Mastiff - Breed Comparison
  32. Nebolish Mastiff vs English Mastiff - Breed Comparison
  33. Great Dane vs English Mastiff - Breed Comparison
  34. English Mastiff vs Bernese Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  35. English Mastiff vs Anatolian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  36. English Mastiff vs Alaunt - Breed Comparison
  37. English Mastiff vs Bully Kutta - Breed Comparison
  38. English Mastiff vs Alangu Mastiff - Breed Comparison
  39. English Mastiff vs Billy - Breed Comparison
  40. English Mastiff vs Bisben - Breed Comparison
  41. English Mastiff vs American Staghound - Breed Comparison
  42. English Mastiff vs Ciobanesc de Bucovina - Breed Comparison
  43. Newfoundland Dog vs English Mastiff - Breed Comparison
  44. Leonberger vs English Mastiff - Breed Comparison
  45. Irish Wolfhound vs English Mastiff - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds