Quick Facts:

Group classification: Mastiff, AKC Working

Country of origin: England

Date of origin: 1924

Weight (M): 110-133 pounds Height (M): 25-27 inches

Weight (F): 100-120 pounds Height (F): 24-26 inches

Life expectancy: Under 10 years

History

To obtain the Bullmastiff, 40% Bulldogs and 60% Mastiffs were crossed in England dating back to 1795. The Bullmastiff began being judged in 1924 and three breeding generations were required for the dog to be registered as a pure breed. The primary role of Bullmastiffs was tracking down, tackling and holding poachers. Although the dogs were threatening and fierce, they underwent training to ensure they did not go as far as biting the intruders. When the gamekeeper dogs were no longer required, the light fawn colored Bullmastiffs gained popularity over the dark bullmastiff dogs that were excellent for night camouflaging. Today, the Bullmastiff is a dependable family guardian and companion.

General description

Bullmastiffs are powerfully built, though not cumbersome and have a wide wrinkled head with a dark, square, fairy short muzzle which is roughly a third of the entire head’s length. This breed of dog has a black nose, large nostrils, and medium-sized, dark hazel eyes giving the dog an intelligent, alert expression. Its wide-set, v-shaped ears are dark colored and pendant while its teeth meet in an undershot level. The squat back of a Bullmastiff is level and straight between the loin and the withers while its tapering tail is highly set reaching the hocks. The slightly rough, short coat comes in bridle, red and fawn colors while its head may often contain black markings.

Temperament

The Bullmastiffs are alert and devoted guard dogs and are commonly docile unless they are provoked. Despite being affectionate, Bullmastiffs are protective and fearless and although they do not have an inclination of attacking, they normally catch intruders, knock them down and proceed to hold them. The dog gets along with children and displays calmness, loyalty and intelligence. These dogs have a craving for human leadership and in regard to their extreme power; their master should be firm and confident while ensuring the set rules are followed consistently. Bullmastiffs should be extensively socialized with both dogs and people while still young and should be taught to refrain from pulling on leashes. Passive and meek owners might not be able to control this breed of dog as it might appear reserved with unfamiliar persons, aggressive with fellow dogs and headstrong if time is not taken to socialize the dog.

Health and Care

Bullmastiffs are susceptible to cancer, eyelid problems, tumors and hip dysplasia. They are similarly vulnerable to boils on their lips. Due to their tendency to bloat, it is recommendable for Bullmastiffs to be fed twice or three times a day by giving the dog smaller meal portions rather than giving a single large meal. These dogs have the potential of being lazy if moderate and regular exercises are not provided. While indoors, they are relatively inactive and a small yard may be ideal for them in addition to long daily walks. The Bullmastiff is similarly incapable of tolerating extreme temperatures.
The Bullmastiff’s slightly rough short-haired coat is simple to groom. Shampoo and a firm bristled brush should be used when necessary as the dog does not shed much. The feet tend to carry plenty of weight therefore; they should be checked and cleaned regularly. The nails should be trimmed as well.

Other Important Information

Female Bullmastiffs are capable of giving birth to litter of 4 to 13 puppies with a common average of 8 puppies. In respect to the recommended weight of Bullmastiffs, the dog should not be overfed and let to become overweight as they are likely to become overly cumbersome, and incapable of being agile enough to carry out their duties. Although Bullmastiffs usually tolerate children, clumsy puppies have a tendency of knocking toddlers and young children should never be left unsupervised in the presence of a Bullmastiff dog or puppy.
 

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