Description:
The Bullmastiff shows great strength, endurance and alertness. They are a natural guardian of the home and will not back down from a fight. To strangers they are rather standoffish, but they are loving toward their owner. Bullmastiffs are normally very gentle, cheerful and calm. They make a devoted, gentle companion. They are also known as the "gamekeeper's dog" because they were bred to accompany gamekeepers for the ability to track and overpower a poacher.
Height:
25 - 27 inches
Weight:
90 - 130 lbs.
Colors:
Shades of brindle, fawn or red. Slight white marking on the chest is permissible, black muzzle.
Coat:
Short-haired, slightly rough coat.
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.
Care and Exercise:
Minimal brushing of his coat. A good rubdown with a rubber brush or massage glove will remove old dead hairs. Nails should be kept short. Diet and daily exercise need to be balanced to prevent obesity. Daily walks or lost of running space is ideal.
Health Issues:
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.
History/Origin:
This is a 1924 breed obtained by crossing Mastiffs with Bulldogs in the country of England. 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.
Category:
Mastiff, AKC Working
Registries:
CKC, FCI, AKC, KCGB, CKC, ANKC, NKC, NZKC, APRI, ACR