The Bullmastiff: A Fearless Family Guardian

Bullmastiff-resting

The Bullmastiff originated from England by crossing 40% Bulldog with 60% Mastiff. You can find the different kinds of Mastiff Bulldog in the early records during 1795. In 1994, this breed has started to be evaluated.

It required three generations to breed the Bullmastiff before it was registered to be a purebred. They were used as warden’s dog to hunt down, attack as well as hold the thieves. These dogs were intimidating and fierce, though they were taught not to wound the trespassers.

When the necessity for warden’s dogs subsided, those dogs that are dark-brindled gained so much popularity than those with lighter colors because they are excellent for camouflage during the night. They were valued as hunting guards as well as an assistant with the police or army.

Also, they were utilized as watchdogs by South Africa’s Diamond Society. Nowadays, the Bullmastiffs are dependable family guardian and companion. They like to live with families, providing that they are comfortable living with them.

Traits and Behavior

The bullmastiff is silent, gentle and a dedicated guardian and confidant. They are not provoked easily but once they are being threatened, they can be a very fearless dog.

They are persistent and they can’t be easily forced to do actions that are against their will. A number of them can be hostile with the strange dogs, although they are usually good with the other pets and dogs in the family.

Bullmastiff-lying-on-the-grass

They are nice with the children as well though they might not satisfy them since these dogs are not playful enough.

Also, these dogs need caring but firm owners and they are not suitable for those that are delicate and timid. They are not so difficult to handle but they need a master who will emphasize his authority.

Passive or submissive owners will have a hard time controlling this breed.

They are also extremely sensitive with the quality of voice so they require someone who speaks with boldness but not with harshness.

Pet Care and Diseases

The Bullmastiffs will not thrive well in hot or humid weather and they will work well as indoor dogs. Also, since they have a large structure, they need to have regular exercise so that they will maintain a good shape.

A daily walk will do well in them but they must be beside or behind the one who holds their leash so that they will be aware of who’s the leader.

They will drool while some will also snore and they require a soft bed as well as plenty of space for them to be able to stretch.

Bullmastiff-mouth-open

Also, they need a little coat care and a few brushes every month will do.

Furthermore, these dogs have a typical life expectancy of 8-10 years. They are susceptible to main health issues such as sub-aortic stenosis, hypothyroidism, cardiomyopathy, lymphosarcoma, osteosarcoma, hemangiosarcoma and mast cell tumors.

They are likely to have canine hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, gastric torsion as well as entropion but this is just a minor issue. They must be regularly checked by a veterinarian to identify whatever health issues they are having while it’s earlier.

Appearance

The Bullmastiffs are enormous, active and are very strongly built but they’re not clumsy dogs. As expected, they resemble both their Bulldog and Mastiff ancestors. They are powerful and energetic dogs and they have a smooth and strong gait. The males stand for about 25 to 27 inches and weigh around 110 to 133 pounds. On the other hand, the females are approximately 24 to 26 inches with a weight of about 100 to 120 pounds.

Bullmastiff-plyaing-with-water

Additionally, these dogs have broad, large skulls that are creased and their foreheads are flat. Their eyes are medium-sized with a dark hazel color. Also, their nose is wide and colored black and their nostrils are seemingly large.

They have a deep and broad muzzle that has a darker color in general. Their lower front teeth stick out past the upper front teeth if their mouth is closed, otherwise known as an undershot bite.

Moreover, their ears are V-shaped, wide, elevated and are held close to their cheeks which gives their skull a square look.

The coat of Bullmastiffs are thick, short and slightly rough which come in various colors such as red, brindle, fawn and they often have black patterns on their head.

Their tail is strong, set high and its root is denser. The body shape of Bullmastiff is square and it has a sharp and alert expression. Such characteristics enable them to overwhelm as well as subdue the intruders.

Bullmastiff-with-pillow

General Information

The estimated life of a Bullmastiff is 8-10 years. The maximum litter size is about 4-13 puppies (average of 8).

Breed Club

Visit these dog club websites dedicated to Bullmastiffs. Click these links:

http://www.bullmastiffnw.com/

https://www.bullmastiff.us/

https://www.bullmastiffclubofnsw.com.au/

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