Description

The Bullmastiff shows great strength, endurance and alertness. Bullmastiff is a natural guardian of its home and will not back down from a fight. To strangers Bullmastiff is rather standoffish and arrogant, but he is loving toward his owner and is normally very gentle, cheerful and calm. The Bull Mastiff makes a devoted, gentle companion and is also known as the “gamekeeper’s dog” because he was breed to accompany gamekeepers for the ability to track and overpower a poacher.

Size of Male: Height: 25-27 inches Weight: 110-130 pounds

Size of Female: Height: 24-26 inches Weight: 100-120 pounds

Temperament

The Bullmastiff is a devoted, alert guard dog, with a good-natured temperament, though he tends to be willful. Docile unless provoked, Bullmastiff are fearless and protective, yet affectionate. Although unlikely to attack, Bullmastiff will catch an intruder, knock him down and hold him. At the same time, it is tolerant of children. Intelligent, even-tempered, calm and loyal. These dogs crave human attention. The Bullmastiff is an extremely powerful dog that needs a firm master. They should be thoroughly obedience trained for safety, and should be taught not to pull on the leash. Be sure to socialize extensively with both people and other dogs at an early age. Bullmastiffs can be aggressive with other dogs and are reserved with strangers. They may be okay with other pets if raised with them from puppyhood. The Bullmastiff is a more aggressive breed than the Mastiff and they tend to drool and snore. Bullmastiff puppies may seem uncoordinated and these dogs are very sensitive to the tone of your voice. It is not a difficult dog but does require a handler who can assert his authority. The Bullmastiff is a dog that should never be banished to a kennel.

Living Conditions

Bullmastiff will do ok in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. Bullmastiff is relatively inactive indoors and a small yard will do but do take note that the Bullmastiff cannot tolerate extremes of temperatures. Do make sure your dog has enough water to stay hydrated.

Upkeep

The Bullmastiff is a big dog and needs daily exercise to stay in shape. Bullmastiff’s needs are moderate, however, and can be met with walks on leash and short romps. Bullmastiff does not do well in hot, humid weather and generally should be kept as an indoor dog. It needs a soft bed and plenty of room to stretch out. Bullmastiffs drool, however, some snore. Coat care is minimal. Do take note that you should let your Bullmastiff get used to being brushed from when it is a puppy to prevent it being upset from getting brushed as an adult, and violence to occur as a result.

Health

Major concerns: gastric torsion, Hip dysplasia, Elbow dysplasia, Heart problems

Minor concerns: Hypothyroidism

Life expectancy: 8 – 10 years