The Bullmastiff is a large, muscular dog bred in England in the late 1800s as a guard dog to protect gamekeepers and their property from poachers. Bullmastiffs have a gentle and loyal nature, however, they can also be very protective of their family and home.
A natural protector, the Bullmastiff has an innate sense of responsibility towards its family and property. Although they have an imposing size, Bullmastiffs make outstanding companions for families with children. In fact, their gentle and patient nature makes them well-suited for this role. Additionally, they are very protective of their family and home, which can be reassuring for parents. Finally, they are relatively low-maintenance dogs, which makes them a good choice for busy families. Training this breed is a gratifying experience, as they exhibit a willingness to learn and please their owners.
Due to their strong protective instincts, early socialization and consistent training are essential to ensure a well-rounded and well-behaved Bullmastiff. In addition, this breed’s loyal and devoted nature, combined with an innate sense of judgment, makes them excellent watchdogs, as they instinctively detect potential threats and therefore react accordingly.
In terms of exercise, the Bullmastiff prefers moderate physical activity. Regular walks, play sessions, and mental stimulation are enough to keep them content and in good health. They can easily adapt well to urban living, provided they receive attention and exercise.
Quick Facts
- Country of origin: England
- Original purpose: Guard dog
- Breed Group: Working
- Height: 24-27 inches (male), 22-25 inches (female)
- Weight: 100-130 pounds (male), 80-100 pounds (female)
- Lifespan: 8-10 years
- Temperament: Calm, gentle, loyal, protective
- Coat: Short and dense. Bullmastiffs come in various coat colors, including fawn, red, and brindle, often with a black mask on their face.
- Grooming needs: Low
- Exercise requirements: Low to moderate
- Training: Requires patience and consistency
- Health problems: Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, eye problems.
- One of the most iconic Bullmastiffs is “Butkus,” who appeared in the “Rocky” movies. His pet parent was Rocky Balboa himself, Sylvester Stallone.
- A Bullmastiff makes an appearance as one of the canine antagonists in “Homeward Bound 2: Lost in San Francisco.”
This giant guardian is a breed that embodies strength, loyalty, and intelligence. Their vigilant nature, combined with a gentle and affectionate demeanor towards their loved ones, makes them a cherished addition to any family.
Bullmastiff Pictures
Adaptability
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Adapts Well To Apartment Living
Looking for the best dog for your apartment? Contrary to popular belief, the suitability of dogs who adapt well to apartment living goes beyond its size. Apartment dwellers have a myriad of dog breeds to choose from as potential companions, with various factors to consider. Some large breeds can adapt well to apartment living and have lower activity levels. Others may require more space and possess higher energy levels. On the other hand, certain small dog breeds with abundant energy can still find contentment with indoor playtime or brisk walks.
However, when selecting a dog that adapts well apartments, it is essential to prioritize your neighbors. Opting for a pet that doesn’t excessively bark and behaves politely when encountering others in shared spaces like is crucial for maintaining a harmonious apartment environment.
In high-rise settings, it’s worth noting that numerous small dogs may exhibit a propensity for high energy and frequent barking. This makes them less suitable for apartment living. Therefore, desirable qualities in an apartment dog encompass being quiet, low-energy, and displaying polite behavior towards other residents.
Factors To Consider When Choosing A Dog For An Apartment
When considering dogs that adapt well to apartments, size alone should not be the sole determinant. Apartment dwellers have a wealth of dog breeds to choose from as potential furry companions. It’s important to remember that the size of your living space is just one factor to consider. While some larger breeds can adapt well to apartment living, with lower, others may require more space and have higher energy levels, making them less suitable for smaller apartments. Conversely, certain small dog breeds with higher energy levels can still thrive in apartments, finding contentment through indoor playtime or brisk walks. However, it is crucial to consider your neighbors’ comfort when selecting a dog. Opt for a pet that doesn’t bark excessively and behaves politely when interacting with others in shared spaces.
Therefore, it’s important to prioritize qualities such as being quiet, low-energy, calm indoors, and exhibiting good manners when living in close proximity to other residents. By considering these factors, you can find a dog that will adapt well to apartment living and create a harmonious living environment for everyone involved.
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Good For Novice Owners
Some dogs are simply easier than others; they take to training better and are fairly easygoing. They’re also resilient enough to bounce back from your mistakes or inconsistencies.
Dogs who are highly sensitive, independent thinking, or assertive may be harder for a first-time dog parent to manage. You’ll get your best match if you take your dog-owning experience into account as you choose your new pooch.
If you’re new to dog parenting, take a look at 101 Dog Tricks and read up on how to train your dog!
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Sensitivity Level
Some dogs will let a stern reprimand roll off their backs, while others take even a dirty look to heart. Low-sensitivity dogs, also called “easygoing,” “tolerant,” “resilient,” and even “thick-skinned,” can better handle a noisy, chaotic household, a louder or more assertive owner, and an inconsistent or variable routine. Do you have young kids, throw lots of dinner parties, play in a garage band, or lead a hectic life? Go with a low-sensitivity dog.
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Tolerates Being Alone
Some breeds bond very closely with their family and are more prone to worry or even panic when left alone by their owner. An anxious dog can be very destructive–barking, whining, chewing, and otherwise causing mayhem. These breeds do best when a family member is home during the day or if you can take the dog to work.
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Tolerates Cold Weather
Breeds with very short coats and little or no undercoat or body fat, such as Greyhounds, are vulnerable to the cold. Dogs with a low cold tolerance need to live inside in cool climates and should have a jacket or sweater for chilly walks. You can find a great jacket for your dog here!
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Tolerates Hot Weather
Dogs with thick, double coats are more vulnerable to overheating. So are breeds with short noses, like Bulldogs or Pugs, since they can’t pant as well to cool themselves off. If you want a heat-sensitive breed, your dog will need to stay indoors with you on warm or humid days, and you’ll need to be extra cautious about exercising your dog in the heat.
All-around friendliness
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Affectionate With Family
When it comes to unconditional love and unwavering loyalty, few animals can rival the affectionate nature of dogs. These remarkable creatures have earned their reputation as man’s best friend, and many breeds are particularly renowned for their love and devotion to their families. With their warm hearts and wagging tails, affectionate family dogs enrich the lives of their owners in countless ways.
One such breed known for its affectionate demeanor is the Golden Retriever. With their gentle temperament and friendly disposition, Golden Retrievers form deep bonds with their families. They eagerly participate in family activities, whether it’s a game of fetch in the yard or cuddling on the couch during a movie night. Their expressive eyes and ever-wagging tails are a testament to the joy they feel in the presence of their loved ones.
Another family-favorite breed is the Labrador Retriever. Renowned for their playful and patient nature, Labradors are excellent companions for children and adults alike. They readily engage in playtime with the kids, showcasing their boundless energy and enthusiasm. But when the day winds down, they seamlessly transition into loving and gentle cuddle buddies, comforting their family members with their warm presence.
Beyond specific breeds, mixed-breed dogs also have a special place in the hearts of families seeking affectionate companions. The shelter dogs, in particular, form deep connections with their adoptive families. They seem to understand the second chance they’ve been given and repay it with endless love and gratitude.
How To Know If A Dog Is Good With Families
The affectionate nature of family dogs extends beyond play and cuddles. Dogs have a remarkable ability to sense their owner’s emotions, offering comfort and support during difficult times. Whether it’s a wagging tail after a long day at work or a sympathetic nuzzle during moments of sadness, they prove time and again that they are attuned to their family’s needs.
It is important to note that not all dogs of the same breed will be equally affectionate. Some dogs may be more independent or aloof, while others may be more clingy or demanding of attention. The best way to find out how affectionate a dog is is to meet them in person and interact with them.
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Kid-Friendly
Being gentle with children, sturdy enough to handle the heavy-handed pets and hugs they can dish out, and having a blasé attitude toward running, screaming children are all traits that make a kid-friendly dog. You may be surprised by who’s on that list: Fierce-looking Boxers are considered good with children, as are American Staffordshire Terriers (which are considered Pit Bulls). Small, delicate, and potentially snappy dogs such as Chihuahuas aren’t always so family-friendly.
**All dogs are individuals. Our ratings are generalizations, and they’re not a guarantee of how any breed or individual dog will behave. Dogs from any breed can be good with children based on their past experiences, training on how to get along with kids, and personality. No matter what the breed or breed type, all dogs have strong jaws, sharp pointy teeth, and may bite in stressful circumstances. Young children and dogs of any breed should always be supervised by an adult and never left alone together, period.
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Dog Friendly
Friendliness toward dogs and friendliness toward humans are two completely different things. Some dogs may attack or try to dominate other dogs, even if they’re love-bugs with people; others would rather play than fight; and some will turn tail and run. Breed isn’t the only factor. Dogs who lived with their littermates and mother until at least six to eight weeks of age and who spent lots of time playing with other dogs during puppyhood, are more likely to have good canine social skills.
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Friendly Toward Strangers
Stranger-friendly dogs will greet guests with wagging tails and nuzzles; others are shy, indifferent, or even aggressive. However, no matter what the breed, a dog who was socialized and exposed to lots of different types, ages, sizes, and shapes of people as a puppy will respond better to strangers as an adult. Remember that even friendly dogs should stay on a good, strong leash like this one in public!
Health And Grooming Needs
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Amount Of Shedding
If you’re going to share your home with a dog, you’ll need to deal with some level of dog hair on your clothes and in your house. However, shedding does vary greatly among the breeds. Some dogs shed year-round, some “blow” seasonally, some do both, and some shed hardly at all. If you’re a neatnik, you’ll need to either pick a low-shedding breed or relax your standards. To help keep your home a little cleaner, you can find a great de-shedding tool here!
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Drooling Potential
Drool-prone dogs may drape ropes of slobber on your arm and leave big, wet spots on your clothes when they come over to say hello. If you’ve got a laid-back attitude toward slobber, fine; but if you’re a neatnik, you may want to choose a dog who rates low in the drool department.
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Easy To Groom
Some breeds are brush-and-go dogs; others require regular bathing, clipping, and other grooming just to stay clean and healthy. Consider whether you have the time and patience for a dog who needs a lot of grooming, or the money to pay someone else to do it.
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General Health
Due to poor breeding practices, some breeds are prone to certain genetic health problems, such as hip dysplasia. This doesn’t mean that every dog of that breed will develop those diseases; it just means that they’re at an increased risk.
If you’re adopting a puppy, it’s a good idea to find out which genetic illnesses are common to the breed you’re interested in. You may also want to ask if your shelter or rescue has information about the physical health of your potential pup’s parents and other relatives.
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Potential For Weight Gain
Some breeds have hearty appetites and tend to put on weight easily. As in humans, being overweight can cause health problems in dogs. If you pick a breed that’s prone to packing on pounds, you’ll need to limit treats, make sure they get enough exercise, and measure out their daily food servings into regular meals rather than leaving food out all the time.
Ask your vet about your dog’s diet and what they recommend for feeding your pooch to keep them at a healthy weight. Weight gain can lead to other health issues or worsen problems like arthritis.
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Size
Get ready to meet the giants of the doggy world! Large dog breeds aren’t just big balls of fluff, they’re like loving, oversized teddy bears on a mission to steal your heart. Need some convincing? Let’s dive into the awesome benefits of owning one!
First things first, these pooches are a living security system! With their impressive size and thunderous barks, they’ll have any would-be intruder running for the hills. Talk about peace of mind! Plus, who needs an alarm when you’ve got a furry giant protecting your castle?
But that’s not all. Large dog breeds are all about loyalty and devotion. They’ll stick by your side through thick and thin, becoming your most dedicated bestie. Their love knows no bounds! When you have a giant fluffball showing you unconditional love, you’ll feel like the luckiest human on the planet.
Now, let’s talk about their talents. These big fellas are the ultimate working partners. With brains and brawn, they’re up for any challenge. From search and rescue missions to lending a helping paw to those in need, these dogs are superheroes in fur coats. They’ll make you proud every step of the way!
Don’t let their size fool you—these gentle giants have hearts as big as their paws. They’re incredible with kids and other pets, spreading their love like confetti. Their patience and kindness make them perfect family pets, ensuring harmony in your household.
Oh, and get ready to break a sweat! These dogs are fitness enthusiasts, and they’ll keep you on your toes. Daily walks, jogs, and play sessions will not only keep them happy and healthy but will also give you a reason to ditch the couch and join in on the fun. It’s a win-win situation!
So, if you’re ready for a dose of big love, go ahead and consider a large dog breed. They’re the best wing-dog you could ever ask for, ready to make your life a thousand times more exciting, loving, and downright awesome! Get ready for the big adventure of a lifetime!
Trainability
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Easy To Train
Easy-to-train dogs are more adept at forming an association between a prompt (such as the word “sit”), an action (sitting), and a consequence (getting a treat) very quickly. Other dogs need more time, patience, and repetition during training.
Many breeds are intelligent but approach training with a “What’s in it for me?” attitude, in which case you’ll need to use rewards and games to teach them to want to comply with your requests.
Related:
10 Fun, Impressive Tricks You Can Teach Any Dog
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Intelligence
Dogs who were bred for jobs that require decision making, intelligence, and concentration, such as herding livestock, need to exercise their brains, just as dogs who were bred to run all day need to exercise their bodies. If they don’t get the mental stimulation they need, they’ll make their own work–usually with projects you won’t like, such as digging and chewing. Obedience training and interactive dog toys are good ways to give a dog a brain workout, as are dog sports and careers, such as agility and search and rescue.
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Potential For Mouthiness
Common in most breeds during puppyhood and in Retriever breeds at all ages, mouthiness means a tendency to nip, chew, and play-bite (a soft, fairly painless bite that doesn’t puncture the skin). Mouthy dogs are more likely to use their mouths to hold or “herd” their human family members, and they need training to learn that it’s fine to gnaw on chew toys, but not on people. Mouthy breeds tend to really enjoy a game of fetch, as well as a good chew on a toy that’s been stuffed with kibble and treats.
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Prey Drive
Dogs with a high prey drive have an instinctive desire to stalk, capture, and prey upon potential food sources. Dogs who were bred to hunt, such as Terriers, have an inborn desire to chase — and sometimes kill — other animals. Anything whizzing by — such as cats, squirrels, and perhaps even cars — can trigger that instinct.
How to address a high prey drive
Off-leash adventures are too great a temptation for pups who will wander and hunt. Dogs who like to chase need to be leashed. And, even on a leash, you may experience your dog pulling on the leash to reach rodents or birds in their sight. Otherwise, these pups should be kept in a fenced area when outdoors. If your pup has a high prey drive, you’ll need a high, secure fence in your yard.
These breeds generally aren’t a good fit for homes with smaller pets that can look like prey, such as cats, hamsters, or small dogs. Breeds that were originally used for bird hunting, on the other hand, generally won’t chase, but you’ll probably have a hard time getting their attention when there are birds flying by.
Other behavioral concerns
Observing your dog’s prey drive, which is instinctual and biologically-rooted, is not the same as observing aggression. Much aggression is born of fear and anxiety, especially in the case of dog aggression toward humans.
The tendency to wander, even into oncoming traffic, can produce diasterious results for pups with predatory instincts. It can also lead to pups being bitten by snakes or attacked by other wild animals they may pursue while on the hunt.
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Tendency To Bark Or Howl
Some breeds sound off more often than others. When choosing a breed, think about how often the dog vocalizes. Learn more about breeds with a tendency to bark or howl.
If you’re considering a hound, would you find their trademark howls musical or maddening? If you’re considering a watchdog, will a city full of suspicious “strangers” put your pup on permanent alert? Will the local wildlife literally drive your dog wild? Do you live in housing with noise restrictions? Do you have neighbors nearby? Then you may wish to choose a quieter dog.
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Wanderlust Potential
Some breeds are more free-spirited than others. Nordic dogs such as Siberian Huskies were bred to range long distances, and given the chance, they’ll take off after anything that catches their interest. And many hounds simply must follow their noses–or that bunny that just ran across the path–even if it means leaving you behind.
Exercise needs
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Energy Level
High-energy dogs are always ready and waiting for action. Originally bred to perform a canine job of some sort, such as retrieving game for hunters or herding livestock, they have the stamina to put in a full workday. They need a significant amount of exercise and mental stimulation, and they’re more likely to spend time jumping, playing, and investigating any new sights and smells.
Low-energy dogs are the canine equivalent of a couch potato, content to doze the day away. When picking a breed, consider your own activity level and lifestyle, and think about whether you’ll find a frisky, energetic dog invigorating or annoying.
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Intensity
A vigorous dog may or may not have high energy, but everything they do, they do with vigor: they strain on the leash (until you train them not to), try to plow through obstacles, and even eats and drinks with great big gulps. These dynamos need lots of training to learn good manners, and may not be the best fit for a home with young kids or someone who’s elderly or frail. A low-vigor dog, on the other hand, has a more subdued approach to life.
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Exercise Needs
Some breeds do fine with a slow evening stroll around the block. Others need daily, vigorous exercise, especially those that were originally bred for physically demanding jobs, like herding or hunting.
Without enough exercise, these breeds may put on weight and vent their pent-up energy in ways you don’t like, such as barking, chewing, and digging. Breeds that need a lot of exercise are good for outdoorsy, active people, or those interested in training their dog to compete in a high-energy dog sport, such as agility.
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Potential For Playfulness
Some dogs are perpetual puppies — always begging for a game — while others are more serious and sedate. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog.
Bullmastiff Overview
In 1901, Mr. Burton from Thorneywood Kennels issued a bold challenge to spectators at a dog show. He presented a muzzled Bullmastiff and offered a substantial prize of one pound to anyone brave enough to escape from the dog. A confident man with experience in handling dogs volunteered, but he quickly realized the daunting task ahead. Despite a head start, the Bullmastiff relentlessly pursued, caught, and knocked him down three times, showcasing its true nature as a fearless and determined guardian.
Bullmastiffs were originally bred by gamekeepers on English estates to serve as courageous and strong protectors of the grounds. Their formidable appearance alone acts as a powerful deterrent to potential attackers or intruders. When well-trained and well-socialized, the Bullmastiff embodies confidence, nobility, and trustworthiness, making it an exemplary representative of the canine world.
While the Bullmastiff’s short coat is easy to groom and sheds minimally, it compensates with excessive drooling. Daily walks and playtimes are sufficient to meet their exercise needs, making them adaptable to apartment living as long as they receive regular outings. Though they are mellow, Bullmastiffs excel in various dog sports and can be excellent therapy dogs due to their calm and humorous demeanor.
Training Bullmastiffs requires firmness, fairness, and consistency, as they are independent thinkers. Early socialization is crucial to shape their guardian instincts positively. These dogs can adapt well to homes with working individuals if they receive enough human interaction during non-working hours. However, they should primarily live indoors to maintain a close emotional bond with their owners and act as dependable guardians.
Weighing up to 130 pounds, Bullmastiffs possess considerable strength and muscle mass. Responsible ownership entails ensuring they undergo proper training and socialization. When properly handled, a Bullmastiff becomes a loving, faithful, and courageous companion, a true best friend that you can affectionately embrace. As a silent watchdog, the Bullmastiff instinctively protects its family, resorting to biting only when necessary. They show remarkable patience with children, but their size may be overwhelming to toddlers, requiring supervision during interactions. Ultimately, living with a Bullmastiff brings great joy and companionship when their needs are met and their guardian instincts are channeled positively.
Bullmastiff Highlights
Bullmastiffs are low-energy dogs that are content with a couple of short walks each day. They can do well in families with working parents, but puppies may need someone to let them out for potty breaks. They shed very little and require minimal grooming.
These mellow dogs can thrive in apartments or condos. However, proper socialization is essential, as they may become aggressive towards other animals if not exposed to them early on. They should live indoors with their owners, as they are prone to heat exhaustion and heatstroke in hot or humid weather.
Keep in mind that Bullmastiffs drool and can be gassy, so if you’re bothered by cleaning up drool, this breed may not be suitable for you. They need early and consistent training to control unwanted aggression and stubbornness throughout their lives.
Despite their large size, Bullmastiffs are affectionate and enjoy spending time with their owners, often occupying space on the couch, feet, or lap. They make determined guard dogs and will protect their home and family if necessary, as their size and confidence act as a deterrent to intruders.
Bullmastiffs are good with children, but they can unintentionally knock over or step on toddlers due to their size. It’s important to note that they have a high pain threshold, making it challenging to determine if they are hurt, so careful observation is necessary for their well-being.
Bullmastiff History
The Bullmastiff, a relatively modern breed, was developed in the mid-19th century, around 1860, by English gamekeepers. Their aim was to create a large, quiet, and fearless dog with the speed to track down poachers and the strength to hold them. They experimented with different breeds and found success with a cross between the Mastiff and Bulldog.
This cross, known as the Gamekeeper’s Night-Dog, proved to be an excellent working companion. They lived alongside the gamekeeper’s family and were bred for utility and temperament rather than looks, although a dark brindle coat was preferred for night camouflage. As poaching declined, the Bullmastiff transitioned to a new role as a guard dog.
The influence of the Mastiff led to the fawn coat with a black mask becoming more common. It wasn’t until the early 20th century that the Bullmastiff began to be bred as a distinct breed rather than just a crossbreed. In 1924, the Kennel Club in England officially recognized the Bullmastiff, followed by the American Kennel Club in 1933, with the first registered AKC Bullmastiff being Fascination of Felons Fear in 1934.
Today, the Bullmastiff holds the 40th position among the 157 breeds and varieties registered by the AKC, which reflects their outstanding qualities as a loyal companion.
Bullmastiff Size
A Bullmastiff male is 25 to 27 inches in height and weighs 110 to 130 pounds; females are 24 to 26 inches and weigh 100 to 120 pounds.
Bullmastiff Personality
The ideal Bullmastiff possesses fearless confidence while remaining obedient to their owner’s wishes. They are known for their intelligence and reliability, displaying both independence and a desire to please. As natural guardians of the home and family, they respond instantly if any threat arises. Interestingly, Bullmastiffs were bred to be silent watchdogs, making barking an uncommon behavior for them.
Like all dogs, Bullmastiffs require early socialization to become well-rounded adults. This involves exposing them to various people, sights, sounds, and experiences. Enrolling them in puppy kindergarten classes is an excellent way to start their socialization journey. Regularly inviting visitors over and taking them to busy parks, dog-friendly stores, and leisurely strolls to meet neighbors will further enhance their social skills. Proper socialization ensures that Bullmastiff puppies grow up to be well-behaved and socially adept companions.
Bullmastiff Health
Bullmastiffs are generally healthy, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health conditions. While not all Bullmastiffs will experience these diseases, it’s essential to be aware of them if you’re considering this breed:
- Hip Dysplasia is a heritable condition where the thighbone doesn’t fit snugly into the hip joint, leading to pain and lameness in the rear legs.
- Elbow Dysplasia is common in large-breed dogs and can cause painful lameness due to joint laxity.
- Hypothyroidism results from a deficiency of thyroid hormone, leading to various signs like infertility, obesity, and mental dullness.
- Entropion is a defect in which the eyelid rolls inward, irritating or injuring the eyeball.
- Subaortic Stenosis is a heart defect that narrows the aorta below the aortic valve, causing fainting and potential sudden death.
- Cystinuria is a genetic disorder that causes kidney or bladder stones due to the inability to reabsorb cystine.
- GDV, also known as Bloat, is a life-threatening condition where the stomach distends with gas or air and twists, requiring immediate medical attention.
- Ruptured Anterior Cruciate Ligament is a common knee injury in large young dogs or older overweight dogs, leading to sudden hind leg lameness.
- Cancer can affect dogs, with various types requiring different treatments.
- Panosteitis is a condition seen in young dogs with sudden lameness, usually outgrown by two years old.
- Skin Problems are common in Bullmastiffs, with sensitive skin prone to rashes, sores, and irritations.
Regular check-ups and early treatment are crucial to maintaining the well-being of Bullmastiffs and ensuring they lead healthy and happy lives.
Bullmastiff Care
The Bullmastiff is a low-energy dog that adapts well to various home environments, although their size makes them best suited for a house with a fenced yard. A fenced yard not only prevents them from roaming and protects them from traffic but also helps limit their territory and prevents territorial behavior towards others. Their short muzzle makes them prone to heat exhaustion and heatstroke, so it’s essential to avoid exercise during the hottest parts of the day and keep them indoors during hot or humid weather. Providing shade and fresh water when they’re outdoors is crucial for their well-being.
Training should begin early, preferably when they are still a manageable size as a puppy. Enrolling in a puppy socialization class helps them learn to interact with other dogs and people, which is vital for a Bullmastiff, as they can be aggressive towards unfamiliar individuals if not properly socialized. Beyond puppy classes, exposing them to various places and experiences will help them adapt to new situations.
Positive reinforcement is the best approach in training a Bullmastiff, as they respond well to encouragement but need a confident trainer. Avoid repetitive training to keep them engaged, and set boundaries early to prevent unwanted behaviors from becoming habits. Housetraining should be positive and consistent, and crate training can aid in preventing undesirable chewing behaviors.
While firmness is necessary during training, the Bullmastiff also requires love and patience. Once trained, they become wonderful, caring, and loyal companions, ready to protect their loved ones at any cost. Building a strong bond with your Bullmastiff and providing them with proper training and care will ensure a harmonious and rewarding relationship with this majestic breed.
Bullmastiff Feeding
The recommended daily amount of high-quality dog food for a Bullmastiff is 3 1/8 to 4 1/8 cups, divided into two meals. However, the specific quantity varies based on factors like size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level. Just like people, dogs are unique individuals with different dietary needs. Active dogs will require more food than less active ones. The quality of the food also matters; better food nourishes your dog more efficiently, meaning you may need to serve less.
To keep your Bullmastiff in good shape, measure their food and feed them twice a day rather than leaving food out all the time. To assess their weight, use the eye test and hands-on test. When looking down at them, you should see a waistline. When placing your hands on their back with fingers spread downward, you should be able to feel, but not see, their ribs without pressing too hard. If you can’t, they may need less food and more exercise.
For more guidance on feeding your Bullmastiff, refer to our nutritional guidelines.
Bullmastiff Coat Color And Grooming
The Bullmastiff’s coat is short and dense, providing excellent protection against rain, snow, and cold weather. It comes in three colors: red, fawn, or brindle, with a dark muzzle and ears. Occasionally, a Bullmastiff may have a small white mark on their chest. Fortunately, Bullmastiffs don’t shed heavily, and their coats are easy to maintain with a quick daily brushing using a rubber curry. Baths are only needed as necessary.
Regular grooming practices ensure their coat stays clean and shiny. It’s essential to check their ears weekly and clean them with a veterinarian-recommended solution when needed. If an ear smells bad or contains waxy material resembling coffee grounds, it could indicate an infection or mite infestation, requiring a visit to the vet.
To maintain their feet in good condition, trim their nails once or twice a month. Nails that click on the floor are too long and can lead to spreading toes, reduced foot support, and an increased risk of debris getting stuck.
Don’t neglect dental hygiene. Brushing their teeth at least two to three times a week prevents tartar buildup and periodontal disease, while daily brushing yields the best results. Grooming sessions offer an excellent opportunity to bond with your dog and monitor their overall health. While brushing their coat or teeth, check for any signs of irritation, such as redness on the skin, mouth, feet, and ears. Eyes should be clear of redness or discharge.
Starting grooming routines when they’re puppies helps them get used to being brushed and examined. Handle their paws frequently to desensitize them, and look inside their mouth and ears. By turning grooming into a positive experience filled with praise and rewards, you’ll prepare them for easy veterinary exams and other handling as adults.
Bullmastiff Children And Other Pets
Bullmastiffs are known for their patience and protective nature towards children. However, due to their large size, they can accidentally knock over or step on a toddler. If you have children, it’s crucial to consider their age and size before getting a Bullmastiff. Educate your children on how to approach and interact with dogs, and always supervise their interactions to prevent any ear biting or tail pulling from either side. Teach your child not to approach a dog while it’s sleeping or eating or attempt to take away its food. Never leave any dog, no matter how good-natured, unsupervised with a child.
Bullmastiffs may exhibit aggression towards unfamiliar dogs. They tend to get along best with dogs of the opposite sex, particularly if they have been raised together. While some Bullmastiffs can coexist with cats if they are raised alongside them, others may have a strong chase instinct. A confident cat that stands its ground is likely to fare better than one that runs away.
Responsible pet ownership, early socialization, and proper training are essential when bringing a Bullmastiff into a household with children or other pets. With the right approach, Bullmastiffs can be wonderful and loving companions for families.
Bullmastiff Rescue Groups
Bullmastiffs are often acquired without any clear understanding of what goes into owning one, and these dogs often end up in the care of rescue groups, in need of adoption or fostering. Contact rescue organizations for more information about available dogs and adoption requirements.
Bullmastiff Breed Organizations
Finding a reputable dog breeder is one of the most important decisions you will make when bringing a new dog into your life. Reputable breeders are committed to breeding healthy, well-socialized puppies that will make great companions. They will screen their breeding stock for health problems, socialize their puppies from a young age, and provide you with lifetime support.
On the other hand, backyard breeders are more interested in making a profit than in producing healthy, well-adjusted dogs. They may not screen their breeding stock for health problems, and they may not socialize their puppies properly. As a result, puppies from backyard breeders are more likely to have health problems and behavioral issues.
