Mabosstiff is a large, canine Pokémon. Its coat is primarily gray, with blackish gray colorations on its underside, back, and around its face and eyes. It also has a stripe of light gray fur running down its spine. The stripe starts at its forehead, which forms the appearance of slicked back hair; and ends at its rear, forming a long, brushy tail. Mabosstiff is known to shed its fur frequently.
Mabosstiff's head is large with no discernible neck, and contains small, orange beady eyes; light gray eyebrows; additional light gray accents under its eyes; a rounded, triangular orange nose; and a mouth filled with sharp teeth. Mabosstiff has a large dewlap below its mouth, which allows it to store energy to drive back opponents.
Mabosstiff has a gentle temperament and loves playing with children. However, it will bare its teeth and take on an intimidating look when protecting its family.
Mabosstiff is the only known Pokémon that can have Guard Dog as an Ability.
Origin
Mabosstiff seems to be based on the mastiff breeds of dog. With its large build and long coat, it particularly resembles the Tibetan Mastiff, which is not a true mastiff breed despite its name; although its large dewlap could also be possibly inspired by that of the Spanish Mastiff. Its friendly behavior around children and signature Ability invoke the general image of livestock guardian dogs, a type of dog bred to protect livestock from predators also known for their friendliness, many of which are mastiff breeds.
Its appearance, combined with its name, Dark type, and protective nature towards its family, may be derived from the archetypal looks and behaviors of leaders in organized crime families, such as the Italian mafia and the Japanese yakuza. It also slightly resembles an old person because of the grey eyebrows and fur on its head and back.
Name origin
Mabosstiff may be a combination of mafia, mob, boss, and mastiff.
Mafitifu may be a combination of mafia and mastiff.