What health problems should I be aware of when owning an English Mastiff??

I know certain breeds are suceptable to diseases, or complications to owning, and there are some traits only some will know from owning the breed previously. The shar pei needs the folds over it's eyes stictched back to prevent from going blind, The chihuahua generally doesn't get along with other breeds or animals, the Canaan is very shy and timid but loving to it's family, the Shelty is a dog that barks a lot, but even more when very happy or excited. I know nothing about the english mastiff except for what books, sites, or breeds can tell me. I'd like a perspective from those who own, or have owned an English Mastiff.

I own bullmastiffs, which is an english mastiff crossed with a bulldog, similar to the english mastiff, but slightly smaller and a tad more aggressive. The number one thing i can tell you is obedience training! These are very big dogs and an unrully one can wreck your home in no time. I train bullmastiffs and let me tell you, they are hardheaded. english are more gentele so you can do it your self but it take tons of time and patience. they are very alert to the sound of your voice, so NO yelling. English mastiffs also have problems with hip displasia. There is alot of weight on those joints to carry around. Make sure you feed a good quality puppy food formulated for large breeds. Science diet and eukanuba are good ones. Also Purina One for large breeds is good and not so expensive. Also, buy an elevated dog dish, this puts less strain on the back hip joints when the dog eats. I also give my dogs joint supplements, like glucosomine chondritin every day. Don't forget to also get them a very supportive mattress/pad for sleeping. These can get expensive, so be sure your dog is not going to eat it before you spend all that money on it. Look up foster and smith on the internet, they are two drs. who have a wonderfull catalog with all this stuff in it, very reasonable prices too.

make sure u dont get steped on, they r big dogz lol

KYLE THE MAN

they often have problems with their joints.

I would pick up a book that specializes on the breed. I picked one up when I got my dog it was a lot of help.