Bullmastiff

Established sometime during the mid-1800s, the Bullmastiff was developed to assist the gamekeepers who watched over large English estates.

The breed was created by using a ratio of 60 percent Mastiff and 40 percent Bulldog, which was a much different animal than the Bulldogs of today. Bullmastiffs dutifully tracked trespassers, knocked them down and held the intruder until the gamekeeper arrived.

Personality

Docile, loyal, friendly
Protective, confident and fearless
Easy-going and calm
Devote themselves to their families

Size

24-27 inches at the withers (shoulders)
100-130 pounds

Lifestyle

Good with people and children
If two Bullmastiffs are in the home, try to make sure one is male and the other female
Do well in houses with large yards or apartments if provided with ample exercise opportunities
Tend to be a little lazy if left to their own devices, so owners must ensure they get out and move
Daily walks required
Puppies need more exercise than adults
Bullmastiffs drool, slobber and snore

Training

Require an assertive — but not harsh — handler
Because Bullmastiffs were once expected to act independently, they can be a tad stubborn but generally respond well to training

Coat

Comes in fawn, red or brindle (sometimes a small white marking appears on the chest)
Short and dense

Care

Comb and bathe when necessary to remove dead hair
Clean ears, trim nails and brush teeth as needed

Health

Prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, bloat, cancer, allergies and heart problems

Lifespan

8-11 years

Rescue

To adopt a Bullmastiff, visit the American Bullmastiff Association.

PHOTO: sannse

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