Bullmastiff Breed Information and Facts

Considering getting a Bullmastiff? Makes sure you know the characteristics of the breed. We've put together the following Bullmastiff breed information and facts to create a profile of this dog so you have the critical information necessary to make a decision.

The Bullmastiff’s size may be intimidating, but the breed is surprisingly sweet and even tempered. A natural protector, the Bullmastiff can live as long as 10 years.

Origin

The Bullmastiff was bred in England during the 1860s to keep poachers away from game reserves and large estates. The Bullmastiff’s original makeup was 60% Mastiff and 40% Bulldog.

Size

Weighing anywhere from 100 to 130 pounds and standing 24 to 27 inches tall, the Bullmastiff is an undeniably strong breed. They have a sturdy build and wide, wrinkled heads with black markings.

Grooming Needs

The Bullmastiff’s coat is red, brindle or fawn with coarse, short hair that requires an occasional brushing, but little else. The dog does carry a lot of weight and it is important to regularly trim their nails and check the overall condition of their feet.

Bullmastiff owners should also be prepared to deal with slobber. The Bullmastiff is prone to slobber, sometimes profusely, after exercise, or eating or drinking. Owning a Bullmastiff can mean having a slobber rag handy at all times.

Character

The Bullmastiff is a self-assured and independent dog, but quite calm and even gentle.

Temperament

The Bullmastiff is an alert and devoted protector. Rather than bark or bite an intruder, the Bullmastiff is more likely to knock them down and hold them there. They are not an aggressive breed, but territorial, and ready and able to defend their family and their home.  

With their family, the Bullmastiff is loving and docile. They can make a good family pet who is content to lie on the couch and watch television. The Bullmastiff is excellent with children. However, parents must take care to supervise the Bullmastiff with younger children simply because of the dog’s large size. 

Training Needs

The Bullmastiff needs a determined and experienced master who knows how to manage their size and temperament. The Bullmastiff is a smart, independent thinker and can be stubborn. Standard obedience training may not work for this dog. The Bullmastiff’s owner must be consistent, rigorous and assertive in their training. This breed wants to be in control of the situation and needs to be taught that their owner is the pack leader. Training a Bullmastiff can be challenging, but the breed responds well to a strong leader and positive reinforcement.

The Bullmastiff can easily pull when being walked. They must be trained to walk beside or behind their owner, rather than lead. They must also be taught that their owner goes first when entering or exiting a doorway.

Early socialization is important in training a Bullmastiff. They generally behave well around people and other pets, but do much better when taught proper behavior from a young age.

Activity Level 

The Bullmastiff needs daily walks for exercise and room to roam when indoors. The breed is prone to being lazy, but regular exercise is necessary to keep them healthy. Their owners must be committed to keeping them in shape. When exercising or playing, the dog should not be overworked and is sensitive to extreme temperatures.

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