The Bullmastiff, a noble and powerful breed, boasts a history as robust as its physique. This majestic dog has been a loyal companion and protector throughout the centuries, evolving alongside human society.
The Bullmastiff's roots trace back to 19th-century England. It was developed by gamekeepers on large estates to combat the rampant poaching problem. The breed is a cross between the English Mastiff and the Old English Bulldog, combining the size and strength of the Mastiff with the tenacity and agility of the Bulldog. This unique blend created a formidable guard dog capable of pursuing and apprehending poachers without causing them harm.
During the height of poaching in the 1800s, the Bullmastiff became an indispensable asset to gamekeepers. Known as the "Gamekeeper's Night Dog," this breed was trained to work silently and efficiently, using its keen senses to detect intruders. Its role was not to attack but to pin and hold trespassers until human assistance arrived. This required a dog that was intelligent, obedient, and fearless.
The Bullmastiff was officially recognized by the English Kennel Club in 1924 and the American Kennel Club in 1934. Since then, its popularity has continued to grow. Today, the Bullmastiff is cherished not only for its guarding abilities but also for its calm demeanor and loving companionship.
Bullmastiffs require regular care, including vaccinations, examinations, and a healthy diet. They are prone to certain health issues, such as heart conditions, kidney and bladder stones, and eye problems.
They're not exactly the energizer bunnies of the dog world, if you know what I mean. Sure, they need their daily walks and some playtime, but a nice moderate amount of activity suits them just fine.
They're not one of those high-strung breeds that needs to be going non-stop all day long. Bullmastiffs are pretty chill and low-key overall.
Bullmastiffs respond well to positive reinforcement. Use the following techniques: Reward them with small, tasty treats when they obey a command along with praise: Verbal affirmations like "good boy" or "good girl" can be very effective.
Consistency is crucial when training a Bullmastiff
Short, daily training sessions are more effective than infrequent, long ones. Regular walks and trips to the dog park help them get used to different environments and animals.
Use the Same Commands: Always use the same words and gestures for each command
Bullmastiffs are prone to dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), a life-threatening heart condition. They may also have heart murmurs, which can be caused by abnormal heart valves.
Bullmastiffs are more likely to develop kidney and bladder stones than other breeds.
They are prone to entropion, an eye condition where the eyelid rolls inward. They may also have progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), an inherited eye disorder.
Bullmastiffs are more likely to develop bloat, also known as GDV, because of their deep, narrow chest. Do your reseach to avoid this condition. If your Bullmastiff has blood in their urine, can't urinate, or is straining to urinate, seek immediate medical care. If your Bullmastiff is showing signs of bloat, take them to an emergency hospital immediately. Always purchase your next fur-companion from a responsible-reputable breeder. You can find them online on certain puppy marketplace platforms and breeder websites, if a puppy picture is 'the worst' or pink collar girl, blue collar boy, they look dirty, just born, in a cage, chances are they are from a puppy mill, or back yard breeder, move on!
Bullmastiffs are not a good match for multi-pet households. They have a high prey drive and may harass cats and other small pets, even if they are raised together. Similarly, they don't do well with other dogs. Their protective instincts require careful guidance and training to ensure they discern real dangers from harmless encounters. When properly socialized and trained, bullmastiffs become well-adjusted family members, their temperament a perfect balance of strength and sensitivity, making them cherished companions for those who understand and appreciate the depths of their noble spirit.
A weekly brushing is surffice for this breed, with a once a month bath. Watch for any development such as an allergy, like itching.
They can be prone to ear infections due to their large ear canels, ear infection in these dogs can be treated with an ear cleanser that contains acetic acid. Using either Epi-Otic or Vet Solutions, both of which you can get from an on-line pet supply catalog or pharmacy, or sometimes at well-stocked pet supply stores. You should clean the affected ear out twice daily using only cotton balls (not Q-tips).
Trim their nails every few weeks to avoid overgrowth and pain. Start this at an early age to get them familiar with the process.
If you're looking for a big, lovable goofball of a dog, the bullmastiff might be your perfect match. These gentle giants were originally bred to guard estates but nowadays they're more likely to be found lounging on the couch or following their human families from room to room. Don't let their imposing size fool you though - bullmastiffs are total softies with their families. They're patient and tolerant with kids, and their calm demeanor makes them a steady, comforting presence in the home. While they're not overly playful, they do enjoy a good romp or game of tug-of-war now and then. Just make sure you have plenty of space. Bullmastiffs are pretty low-key and don't need a ton of exercise, but regular walks and some time to stretch their legs in a fenced yard are a must to keep them fit and content. With proper training and socialization from an early age, bullmastiffs can be some of the most devoted, affectionate companions around - the kind of dog that's always there when you need a friend, a guardian, or just a big ol' teddy bear to snuggle up with at the end of a long day.
