Bullmastiff

The Bullmastiff is a hardy breed which descended directly from the English Mastiff and Old English Bulldog.  Traditionally used as gamekeepers in England in the 19th century, the Bullmastiff is an obedient breed with natural instincts to guard and protect its family.

Bullmastiffs were bred to be confident, strong, and courageous. A natural protector, their large appearance is enough to scare a would-be intruder away. A well-trained and socialized Bullmastiff is a trustworthy companion. They are not a high-energy dog and have quite a mellow disposition. While puppies are more energetic, they tend to settle down by around two years old.

Bullmastiffs are independent thinkers so early and consistent training is necessary. Without proper training, they will assume they are boss. Thanks to their guardian dog history, Bullmastiffs are okay to be left home alone during the day but they are in no means an outside dog – they need human interaction.

Despite their size, Bullmastiffs are amazing with children. They have extreme patience with them but should be careful around small children just because of their size. They can be aggressive towards other animals but if they are socialized properly, they will get along with them.

Major Health Concerns: A purebred Bullmastiff has a short average lifespan of only 7-8 years. The Bullmastiff is prone to certain hereditary diseases and conditions, including hip and elbow dysplasia.

Interesting Fact: The Bullmastiff can have a variety of coat-patterns, such as brindle, fawn, and red. A less common variation is the ‘Dudley’, which is characterized by pale (sometimes grey) fur and light eyes.

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