All about Bullmastiff dog

History and Origin of the Bullmastiff

The Bullmastiff is a large breed of domestic dog that is of the Molosser type. The breed originated in the early 19th century by gamekeepers or English wardens to protect estates. As a result, the breed gained the nickname of “Gamekeeper’s Night Dog” because they do a very good job immobilizing poachers. It is widely accepted that the Bullmastiff was created by mixing the Olde English Bulldog with the English mastiff.

The dog was officially recognized as a purebred dog by the American Kennel Club in 1933; although the breed had been accepted earlier in Europe around 1924. The breed standard was officially written in 1935 but has undergone several changes since the original creation.

Appearance

The Bullmastiff is a large dog with an appearance similar to that of an English Mastiff, although the Bullmastiff comes in multiple coat patterns. Male Bullmastiffs will reach heights of 25 to 27 inches while weighing between 110 to 130 pounds. The females, on the other hand, are 24 to 26 inches tall and weigh between 100 and 120 pounds. Dogs that exceed these measurements are not encouraged by reputable breeders.

The Bullmastiff coat is short and comes in shades of red, fawn, and brindle. The fawn will range from light brown to a reddish brown. The brindle coats are always stripes overlaying a red or fawn coat. The Bullmastiff is only allowed to have a small marking of white on the chest; any markings of white found on the body other than the chest are considered a fault by the AKC. The dogs have a similar appearance of an English Mastiff with a Bulldog face.

Bullmastiff Temperament and Personality

The Bullmastiff makes a wonderful guard dog as it is very alert and devoted to its family. The breed is known for being even tempered, affectionate, and docile; that is until provoked anyway. The dogs are very highly unlikely to attack, but they will knock down and hold an intruder at bay. These dogs love human companionship, but require an owner who is experienced and consistent with training.

These dogs do require early socialization to both humans and animals in order to grow into a healthy adult. These dogs are more dominant than other types of mastiffs, and they do drool a lot, in addition to snoring and slobbering. Make sure you know exactly what you are getting and that your temperament is okay for that of a Bullmastiff. If you decide you are right for the breed, you will find a loyal, devoted companion that is eager to please.

Health of the Breed

This breed, like many other large breeds, can suffer from several ailments. These dogs usually live between eight and ten years while being prone to suffer from the following conditions: Entropion, lymphoma cancers, hip and elbow dysplasia, hypothyroidism, bloat, progressive retinal atrophy, and arthritis.

Exercise and Other Care Requirements

If given the proper amount of exercise (which is not that much in comparison to other breeds) the Bullmastiff can do quite well in all types of homes, even an apartment. They are usually very inactive indoors and only require a small yard at best. These dogs do well in regions that have mild conditions as they do not do well in the severe cold or severe heat. Bullmastiffs, like any other large breed need to be taught the pecking order of the family. In addition, they like all other breeds will become destructive and exhibit behavioral problems if the dog becomes bored or is not provided with a sufficient amount of exercise each day.

Something you may not know about the breed

The Bullmastiff is a very quiet breed that is rarely known to bark.

All about Bullmastiff dog