Large, muscular dogs, Bullmastiffs (a cross between a Mastiff and a Bulldog) might look like fearsome guard dogs but in fact they’re affectionate, loyal and loving family pets. Bred to chase down poachers in England, they still have that protective instinct especially when it comes to their favourite humans. When they’re not busy guarding you, these gentle giants want to be cuddling up with you, ideally on your lap. Yep, even with their large size, at heart the Bullmastiff is a lapdog. Somewhat clumsy and unaware of their strength, an untrained Bullmastiff can accidentally knock over unsuspecting humans - early socialisation and training is key to a well-mannered pup.
Bullmastiff Facts
Growing to be up to 68cm tall and weighing up to 59kg, a Bullmastiff is an awful lot of dog! Packed into a powerful muscular body is a courageous sweetheart who has no idea of their own size and strength.
- Breed Group: Working
- Height: female: 60-66cm, male: 63-68cm
- Weight: female: 45-55kg, male: 50-59kg
- Life Span: 7-9 years
- Coat: Smooth, short
- Colour: Fawn, red or brindle
What Does a Bullmastiff Look Like?
The first thing you’ll notice about a Bullmastiff is its size - these are extra large dogs! A cross between a Mastiff and a Bulldog, you’ll also notice their distinctive squashed nose which makes them look like an oversize pug. Bullmastiffs have large, wide heads with dark eyes and v-shaped floppy ears and an overall look of intelligence and confidence.
A Bullmastiff has a strong, muscular body, all the better for warning off poachers in the dead of night. Their short, smooth coat comes in varieties of fawn, red and brindle. Even though a Bullmastiff looks imposing, these watchdogs are giant softies really. At the end of a hard day, expect them to try to curl up in your lap - all 45kg+ of them.
Bullmastiff
Bullmastiff Temperament: Courageous Cuddler
Bred to be courageous guard dogs and pin down would-be poachers, Bullmastiffs are surprisingly easy-going, affectionate and faithful family pets. It also might be surprising to know that they’re not barkers - they had to sneak up unseen and unheard on poachers in the night after all. Think of Bullmastiffs as the ninjas of the dog world - cuddly ninjas, that is.
A Bullmastiff forms strong bonds with their humans, quickly becoming faithful and loving companions. Even though a Bullmastiff is an extra-large dog, at heart they’re lapdogs and you’ll constantly find them leaning against your leg (see, cuddly!) or trying to get themselves into your lap. Bullmastiffs want to be wherever their humans are so they’re very much an inside-surrounded-by-their-families kind of dog.
With their firm belief that they’re toy-sized, Bullmastiffs aren’t always aware of their true size and power. It’s a good idea to supervise a Bullmastiff around small children, cats and smaller dogs to avoid any accidents. Although they’ve got powerful jaws (just look at the size of them!), Bullmastiffs aren’t known for their aggression or for being biters. However, they’re confident and independent working dogs who are protective of their space and people.
Early socialisation and training is absolutely vital for Bullmastiffs, helping them to accept and welcome new people and pets in new environments and within their home. Starting when they’re a puppy is a must as they’re still small enough to adequately control.
Keeping Bullmastiffs Healthy: 4 Issues to Watch Out For
Bullmastiffs have a lifespan of 7 to 9 years, but they squeeze a lot of love into that time. They’re prone to some health issues which are important for you to be aware of. Preventative care - like a healthy, balanced diet, daily exercise and regular vet check-ups - is the key to a happy, fulfilled Bullmastiff.
Obesity
As a large dog, it’s essential your Bullmastiff maintains a healthy weight. An overweight or obese Bullmastiff is at risk of developing a range of health issues, especially orthopaedic ones. If you notice their weight creeping up, talk to your vet. They’ll be able to advise on an eating and exercise plan.
Cancer
Bullmastiffs are affected by cancer, most commonly lymphoma and mast cell tumours. Lymphoma normally affects the immune system as it’s a cancer of the white blood cells. It can be treated with chemotherapy. Mast cell tumours look like harmless lumps but can actually be a type of skin cancer. Take your Bullmastiff to the vet if you find any lumps. If they are mast cell tumours, they’re easily treated with radiation.
Bloat
Bloat is the common name for Gastric Dilatation Volvulus, a condition that large-chested dogs are prone to. Coming on suddenly, it causes the stomach to rotate and twist on it. Left untreated, it can be fatal - it needs immediate medical attention. To help avoid bloat, feed your Bullmastiff two or three smaller meals throughout the day. A slow feeder bowl can help as can avoiding exercise for at least 1 hour before and after eating.
Joint Problems
Joint problems, like hip and elbow dysplasia, are common in large dogs. Caused by the joints not fitting together properly, a Bullmastiff with hip or elbow dysplasia will have difficulties moving and possibly pain. These conditions can be treated with weight management, exercise, medication and surgery. However, these are hereditary conditions and responsible breeders should ensure your pup’s parents are screened for them.
Caring for Your Bullmastiff Dog
With their short, smooth coat that doesn’t shed much and their moderate exercise needs, caring for a Bullmastiff is more about daily training and socialisation to ensure they know who’s in charge (you).
Grooming:
Brush a Bullmastiff weekly to help keep their smooth coat shiny and healthy. During shedding seasons (spring and autumn), they’ll shed more so you might need to bump up to daily brushing and use a deshedding tool. When you’re brushing them, check their ears too. They can be breeding grounds for infection. Gentle ear wipes or damp cotton balls can clean out any gunk.
Keep bath times to once a month max (unless they roll in something really disgusting). Bathing them too often can strip the natural oils in their coat and skin. Bath time is a good time to trim or clip their nails too, to keep them comfortable as they move around.
Aim to brush your Bullmastiff’s teeth every day. This will help stop plaque and tartar building up and keep their teeth healthy and decay-free which is good for them and your wallet. Dental treats and toys will also aid in their oral hygiene.
Nutrition:
Bullmastiffs are generally good eaters, who will happily tuck into quality commercial dog food. You could consider dog food that’s specially formulated for giant dogs which meets their greater nutritional needs. Whichever dog food you choose, ensure it meets their life stage: puppy, adult or senior. A high-quality diet that is not too calorie-rich often is appropriate.
It’s important that Bullmastiffs are kept lean, especially when they’re puppies. They grow very quickly which can stress their systems. Keep an eye on their weight by ensuring a healthy, balanced diet and daily exercise. Make sure treat calories are counted towards their daily calorie intake too.
As a dog with a large chest, Bullmastiffs are at risk of bloat. Consider breaking up food into three or more meals to help reduce the volume of food in their tummy, and avoid exercising your Bullmastiff immediately before or after eating.
Exercise:
Bullmastiffs don’t need a huge amount of exercise - they’ll be happy with 30-45 minutes a day. As well as a daily walk, let them have plenty of outdoor playtime to ward off boredom and obesity. Your garden should be fully fenced and secure. This keeps a Bullmastiff and other dogs and people safe as no one will accidentally wander into their territory.
Bullmastiffs aren’t great jogging or running companions - it’s important not to over exercise them, especially when they’re puppies. Sensitive to hot weather, it’s a good idea to exercise them in the cooler parts of the day.
Training Your Bullmastiff
Although early training and socialisation is important for all dog breeds, it’s especially important for Bullmastiffs. Not only do Bullmastiffs grow up to be physically strong and powerful dogs, they’re also quite strong-willed. Starting training them when they’re a puppy will instill rules and routines that they will adhere to as they grow up. As adorable and friendly as you know your Bullmastiff is, having one running enthusiastically towards visitors or dogs is likely to frighten people and dogs unfamiliar with the breed.... not to mention accidentally knocking them over.
Bullmastiffs do best with experienced pet parents with the time necessary for proper socialisation and training. Work on their manners as soon as possible. Bullmastiffs are smart, quick learners and should get to grips with the basics (sit, stay and come) in no time. It’s also important to teach them not to pull on the lead or jump on people. If they know this as a puppy, they’ll be a lot easier to handle when they’re much older (and bigger).
Firm, consistent training that uses positive reinforcement is needed for Bullmastiffs. Enrol them in puppy training classes as soon as possible and consider using an experienced dog trainer to help you get the most out of your training.