Description

The Bullmastiff is very powerfully built, but not cumbersome, with a broad wrinkled head and fairly short, square, dark muzzle (about 1/3 the length of the whole head). The nose is black with large nostrils. The dark hazel, medium-sized eyes should have an alert, intelligent expression. The v-shaped wide-set ears are pendant and dark colored. The teeth should meet in a level or slightly undershot bite. The short back is straight and level between the withers and the loin. The tapering tail is set high and reaches to the hocks. The short, slightly rough coat comes in brindle, fawn, or red, often with black markings on the head.

Origin

The Bullmastiff was obtained by crossing 60% Mastiffs with 40% Bulldogs in the country of England. Mastiff Bulldog types can be found in records as early back as 1795. In 1924 Bullmastiffs began to be judged. Three generations of breeding of Bullmastiffs was required for Bullmastiffs to be registered as purebreds. The Bullmastiff was used as a gamekeeper's dog to track down, tackle and hold poachers. The dogs were fierce and threatening, but were trained not to bite the intruders. When the need for gamekeeper's dogs decreased, the dark brindle dogs so good for night camouflage gave way in popularity to the lighter fawn coloration. It has been prized as a hunting guard, as an aid in army and police work, and is used as a watchdog by the Diamond Society of South Africa. Today's Bullmastiff is a reliable family companion and guardian. It enjoys living with the family, with whom it comforts itself well.

Temperament

The Bullmastiff is a devoted, alert guard dog, with a good-natured temperament, though he tends to be willful. Docile unless provoked, he is fearless and protective, yet affectionate. Although unlikely to attack, it 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 and 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. He tends to drool and snore. Puppies may seem uncoordinated. 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 should never be banished to a kennel. This breed tends to drool and slobber.

Height

Height: Dogs 25-27 inches (63-69cm) Bitches 24-26 inches (61-66cm)

Weight

Weight: Dogs 110-133 pounds (50-60kg) Bitches 100-120 pounds (45-54kg)

Known Health Problems

Prone to cancer. Beware of hip dysplasia, tumors, and some eyelid problems. They are also prone to boils on the lips and PRA (eyes). These dogs tend to bloat. It is a good idea to feed them two or three small meals a day instead of one large meal.

Conditions for Living

Bullmastiffs will do okay in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. It is relatively inactive indoors and a small yard will do. They can not tolerate extremes of temperatures.

Exercise Requirments

These dogs tend to be lazy so provide regular, moderate exercise. Be sure to exercise and not overfeed him, as he tends to put on weight.

Life Expectancy

Under 10 years Litter Size

Grooming

The short-haired, slightly rough coat is easy to groom. Comb and brush with a firm bristle brush, and shampoo only when necessary. There is little shedding with this breed. Check the feet regularly because they carry a lot of weight, and trim the nails.

Group

Mastiff, AKC Working