AKC Classification: Working
General Size: XLarge
Height: 24 – 27”
Weight: 100 – 130 pounds
Country of Origin:England
The Bullmastiff is a large, powerful dog that stands 24 to 27 inches at the shoulders. Any dog belonging to this breed should have a large, wrinkled head with a short, square muzzle that is approximately a third of the entire head size. The nose is black and the hanging ears are v-shaped. This muscularly built dog has a short, straight back and a tapering tail that is held down. Bullmastiffs have a short, rough coat that can come in a variety of colors, such as red, fawn or brindle. The ears, muzzle and face should be darker in color or have black markings on them.
The Bullmastiff may be a large dog, but they are suited to life in an apartment or inside of a home as long as they get their daily exercise in. Despite the fact that exercise is important to keep this breed healthy and in shape, they may have a different opinion on the matter. Bullmastiffs do tend to be lazy, and so monitoring how much it eats is also important so that a Bullmastiff does not become obese. Bullmastiffs are not tolerant of very hot or cold temperatures, which is something that needs to be kept in mind before acquiring one. These dogs do not shed a lot, but the short coat needs to be brushed and combed now and then. A bath should only be given if really necessary.
The Bullmastiff is a great family pet that is very patient, tolerant and affectionate towards children. These gentle giants, on the other hand, can also be extremely protective. These dogs are not that friendly and nice towards strangers or intruders, which means caution should be exercised when visitors are in the home. The Bullmastiff makes an excellent and fearless guard dog that will knock and pin down anyone deemed to be a threat. If that is not enough, they are also capable of attacking.
Due to the large size and power of the breed, the Bullmastiff should be properly trained and socialized. Bullmastiffs may show aggression towards other dogs, but with pets it was raised with them there are no problems. The Bullmastiff is generally a very sensitive dog and is not happy if it is left alone without companionship or if it is yelled at harshly.
The Bullmastiff has its roots in England, where it was bred by game wardens to be a guard dog for estates. The first known examples of this breed appeared around 1860, and were used to watch property and quietly track any intruders. As the name implies, the Bullmastiff breed was developed by crossing
Mastiffs and
Bulldogs. This is what gives the Bullmastiff its unique appearance and disposition. The breed quickly became popular and in 1933 it had already been by recognized by the American Kennel Club.
Bullmastiffs are basically healthy dogs if the lineage is good, and if the dog is properly taken care of. Like many large dogs, the average lifespan of 8 to 10 years. There are several hereditary problems that can cause problems, though, and owners will have to keep an eye out for any signs or symptoms. These hereditary conditions include elbow and hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy or blindness, entropion, stones in the urinary tract, spinal cord defects, poor balance and poor coordination. Non-inherited health problems include various types of cancer, build-up of tumors, boils found on the lips and bloat. Bloat is a serious problem which can be avoided by giving the Bullmastiff several smaller meals throughout the day instead of one or two large ones.
Breeders Domain offers a direct connection to quality, responsible Bullmastiff Breeders in the United States and Canada. We have an extensive directory of Bullmastiff Puppies for Sale and Bullmastiff Breeders. The majority of our Bullmastiff Breeders offer health guarantees and nationwide shipping of their puppies to approved homes. Breeders Domain is also an excellent source of information about the Bullmastiff breed, general health concerns and photos of Bullmastiff puppies and adults.