Mabosstiff weaknesses and best counters in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet

Mabosstiff is one of the new Pokémon introduced in Generation Nine. Known as the Boss Pokémon, this intimidating dog is a Dark type with a nasty bite. At face value, its stats don’t look like anything special. But when used by a skilled player, Mabosstiff can be a fearsome adversary. Here’s our guide on Mabosstiff’s weaknesses and best counters in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet.

Note: For more information about the game, check out our Pokémon Scarlet and Violet guides and features hub.

Mabosstiff weaknesses and best counters in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet

With a Base Stat Total of 505, Mabosstiff is by no means a powerhouse. Despite this, its stats are distributed in such a way that it can be a very usable Pokémon in the right hands. Its base 120 Attack is high and partners well with Mabostiff’s overall solid bulk and reasonable Speed.

Furthermore, Mabosstiff’s Dark typing means that it only has three weaknesses in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet. Mabosstiff is weak to Bug, Fairy, and Fighting-type moves, so it is best to use these when given the chance. It resists both Dark and Ghost and has complete immunity to Psychic types. This makes Mabosstiff fantastic for shutting down powerful Psychic-type Pokémon.

A typical moveset for Mabosstiff. Screenshot by PC Invasion

When facing off against Mabosstiff, it’s important that you don’t settle for anything less than a good matchup. This is because it learns Jaw Lock, a Dark-type move that prevents you from switching out once used. If your Pokémon can’t cause Mabosstiff trouble and is locked in it gives your opponent the freedom to use a setup move like Hone Claws. This can result in your remaining party members getting swept by a boosted Mabosstiff.

A key weakness of Mabosstiff in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet to take advantage of is its relative lack of Speed and Special Defense. Although neither is terrible, both stats are low enough that you can usually out-speed and take out Mabostiff with a strong Special Attacker. Also, its move pool isn’t especially diverse making it easier to predict what moves an opposing Mabosstiff will have.