Bullmastiff Dog Breed Profile

Description: The Bullmastiff is a powerfully built, massive dog. Despite its bulkiness, it is not clumsy, but moves easily and with agility. This is an extremely strong dog that measures 24 to 27 inches at the shoulder and weighs from 100 pounds to 130 pounds, depending on the sex of the dog. The head is large and the jaws are slightly undershot. The coat of the Bullmastiff is short and rough and comes in red, tan, or brindle, all with darker mask and ear markings. The Bullmastiff has a relatively short life span, usually under 10 years. This dog is also known as the Gamekeeper's Night Dog.

History: As poachers became a large problem on English country estates, a dog to help gamekeepers deal with this was needed. By crossing the Old English Bulldog with the English Mastiff, the Bullmastiff was created. No one wanted a poacher to be torn up by a dog, and the Bullmastiff was perfect in its role of pinning and holding a trespasser until the gamekeeper could arrive. The Bullmastiff has since been used in police and army work. They make excellent companions and guard dogs.

Temperament: The Bullmastiff will bond extremely strongly with its family, and will be completely devoted to them. It will defend them with its life, if necessary. This dog needs to interact with its human companions. The Bullmastiff is quiet in the house and very good with children, although perhaps not suitable for very small children just because they might accidentally knock a child over while playing. This dog absolutely requires obedience training, it must know its place in the household. This breed should be socialized with other people and dogs from an early age. The male dogs may never be able to tolerate another dog of the same sex.

Health Issues: Approximately one quarter of Bullmastiffs will suffer from hip dysplasia. This breed can also come down with cancer. It is prone, like most large dogs, to bloat. Feeding several small meals and keeping the dog quiet after eating will help prevent this. If the Bullmastiff does suffer from bloat, it is imperative to get it to a veterinarian immediately. The dog will not recover from this on its own. It can also suffer from entropion and progressive retinal atrophy.

Grooming: With its short coat, the Bullmastiff does not require much in the way of grooming. An occasional brushing will remove dead hairs and distribute natural oils. The nails should be kept short to prevent splayed feet, and remember to check the ears for infections.

Living Conditions: The Bullmastiff should be kept in the house for several reasons. To begin with, it craves social interaction with the family that it loves. This dog needs a good deal of attention. Also, as one of the Mastiff breeds, it does not tolerate either heat or cold. It cannot be kept outside during extremes of weather. As the Bullmastiff is a quiet dog indoors, it is possible to keep it in an apartment. However, the dog must get enough exercise to maintain its health, both mental and physical.