The Bullmastiff originated in the 19th-century in England. They were bred to assist gamekeepers in protecting large estates from poachers. Created by crossing the English Mastiff with the Old English Bulldog, this powerful breed is capable of tracking and apprehending an intruder without inflicting serious harm. They are quick to form bonds with families and children making them extremely good companions. Though they do seem big and scary, Bullmastiffs are usually calm and reserved when around strangers. This breed is silent yet effective trackers and, as such, intelligent and easy to train.
Life Span
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Grooming
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Coat Type
Bullmastiffs are considered to be gentle giants with an affectionate nature, perfect for family pets. Loyal and protective, they have an innate instinct to protect their home and their loved ones. Early socialization is mandatory to ensure they are well-socialized with strangers. Bullmastiffs are intelligent and keen to please, making them relatively easy to train. However, they may refuse to listen at times if not firmly guided. The energy levels in this breed are moderate, and they require regular exercise like daily walks and play sessions to stay physically fit. Bullmastiffs are good with children; they usually develop deep relationships with them and display a good deal of patience. However, given their size, they should be supervised. They may also be suspicious of unfamiliar people, which makes socialization from a young age valuable.
Bullmastiffs are large and loyal dogs that require regular training and exercise to maintain their temperament. They are smart and eager to please, making them responsive to training, although they can be somewhat stubborn. Regular exercise of about 30-60 minutes, including walks, play, and light jogging, is sufficient to keep Bullmastiffs fit without straining their muscles. Like all breeds, these dogs need to start training early. Given their size, having a well-balanced and trained Bullmastiff is important. Early socialization is also crucial. Aim for 10-15 minute training sessions to keep them motivated and interested. Activities such as fetch and tug-of-war are fun and help strengthen the bond with your Bullmastiff.
Bullmastiffs are prone to several health issues common among the breed. Hip Dysplasia: Irregular growth of the hip joint causes the ball-and-socket joint to not fit properly, leading to pain and potential arthritis. Weight control and moderate exercise can help manage this condition. Elbow Dysplasia: A joint disorder in large breeds that causes pain and lameness, similar to hip dysplasia. Regular vet checkups and proper exercise can help prevent complications. Gastric Dilatation Volvulus (GDV): Also known as bloat, GDV is a life-threatening condition where the stomach twists due to gas buildup. Surgery is often required to prevent GDV, and symptoms like restlessness or a swollen belly should be taken seriously. Entropion: A condition where the eyelids fold inward, irritating the cornea. Surgery is usually needed to correct this. Dilated Cardiomyopathy: A condition where the heart enlarges and becomes ineffective at pumping blood. Regular heart examinations by a veterinarian are essential for early detection and management.
Bullmastiffs have short, dense fur and are relatively easy to groom. They shed moderately throughout the year, with heavier shedding during spring and autumn. Their coats come in fawn, red, or brindle, typically with a black mask. Bullmastiffs only need to be brushed once a month to remove dead hair and distribute natural oils through their coat. Bathing should be done as needed or once a month using a gentle dog shampoo to avoid skin irritation. Nails should be trimmed regularly to prevent discomfort or injury. Regularly check for fleas, ticks, or any unusual bumps or lumps on their skin. Clean their ears and eyes as needed to prevent wax buildup or discharge.
Given the Bullmastiff's large size and specific health predispositions, their nutritional needs must be carefully managed. A balanced diet should include high-quality protein to support muscle mass, with real meat, chicken, or beef as the primary ingredient. Whether feeding homemade or commercial dog food, consult a veterinarian to determine the best diet based on the dog's age, weight, and health. Puppies should eat three to four meals a day, using a large-breed puppy formula to support their rapid growth. Adult Bullmastiffs typically require 4-6 cups of food daily, divided into two meals, with adjustments based on activity level and metabolism. Portion control is essential to prevent obesity, a common issue in this breed. Include healthy fats like fish oil for skin and coat health, and ensure carbohydrates come from digestible sources like vegetables. Fresh, clean water should always be available. Monitor for food allergies or medical conditions that may require dietary adjustments.
