Bullmastiff General Information

Bullmastiffs are large dog breeds originally from England where they were commonly used by gamekeepers for overpowering poachers. This cross breed combines the agility of bulldogs plus the built and power of mastiffs. Although a Bullmastiff has an intimidating size at 25-27 inches, it is known for its docile behavior and great intelligence.

Bullmastiffs are generally characterized by a square skull, broad and dark muzzle that are slightly wrinkled on the sides. Their neck, loin, shoulders, and hindquarters are muscular enough for covering distances within a short span of time. Their dense and short coat has a fawn, red, or brindle hue.

A Bullmastiff does not bark much but are excellent watchdogs because they are fearless in protecting their territory from strangers. Although the breed thinks independently, they have a willingness to please their master and are devoted companions.

Coat Care

Excessive grooming is not needed in Bullmastiffs as minimal brushing is enough to keep their short, waterproof and dense coat clean. Dead hairs can be easily removed with a rubber brush.

Family Life

A Bullmastiff can get along well with children because of its gentleness but it must be socialized with other people at an early age as it has a naturally protective attitude.

An dominant and strong-willed owner is important so that unwanted behaviors can be controlled while they are still young. The dog loves to please its owner and will learn quickly with training.

Lifestyle

Bullmastiffs can adjust quickly to their surroundings and get along fairly well with family members. Owners can provide a zone that dog can consider theirs so that they can retreat to this spot when necessary. This breed can be suited for living in a house or apartment in the city.

Health

Health concerns such as hip dysplasia,hot spots and cancer may afflict your Bullmastiff. Hot spots is usually triggered by moist and warm weather conditions and frequent washing of their coat. This may start as lesions found commonly in the regions surrounding the shoulder, neck, and head.

It is also normal for Bullmastiffs to have allergies to plants, pollen, food, chemicals and flea bites. Your vet can help diagnose the cause behind an allergy but it can sometimes be a trial and error.

Endocarditis can also affect this breed when the dog licks an infected hot spot or the ground such that bacteria enter the bloodstream. The bacteria can also go into the body via a cut. The disease could become worse as these microbes lodge into the Bullmastiff’s heart.

Exercise

This dog breed does not need a lot of exercise though a daily walk can help in preventing obesity.

Training

Obedience classes can help owners to correct any attitude problems. This could also be a good way to teach them when a certain behavior will be tolerated or not.

Since the Bullmastiff willingly pleases their master and have a keen attention, training it to respond to commands would not be hard. Do not growl at it when it does something undesirable. You can reward your Bullmastiff with praises and treats if it did what is required of it.