The Bullmastiff is a powerful dog, said to be a cross between the Mastiff and the Bulldog. Originally bred to find and immobilise poachers, the breed has proved its value as a family pet. The Bullmastiff is an excellent choice for a guard dog; however, a stubborn streak makes the animal resistant to obedience training and overly protective of its human family.
The breed takes its name from its two ancestors, the Bulldog and the Mastiff. It is sometimes referred to as the English Bullmastiff. 
Its primary use, historically, was as a property guard employed by gamekeepers to protect great estates from poachers. The Bullmastiff was originally known as the Gamekeeper's Night Dog.
The Bullmastiff is a powerful family protector. Originally bred in England as a guard dog to discourage poaching (illelegal hunting) on estates, today the Bullmastiff is primarily a beloved family companion and protector.
It is not easily alarmed, but if it feels threatened, the Bullmastiff is fearless.
The Bullmastiff craves human attention and should be kept indoors. Keep a towel handy because the Bullmastiff is quite a drooler. They're kinda stubborn and need early socialization and obedience training with a firm loving hand.
Photos courtesy of The Woodbull Farm
Bullmastiff Breed Outline
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Country of Origin: | Great Britain |
| FCI Classification: |
Group 2 - Pinscher and Schnauzer-Molossoid breeds - Swiss Mountain- and Cattle Dogs and other breeds. Section 2.1 - Molossoid breeds, Mastiff type. |
| Utilization: | Watchdog |
| AKC Classification: |
Working Group |
| Personality: | Stubborn, alert and very suspicious of strangers, yet has a calm and dependable disposition. Loyal and fearless. Craves human attention. |
| Size: | Large |
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Height: | 24-27 inches at shoulders |
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Colors: |
Any shade of brindle, fawn or red; color to be pure and clear. A slight white marking on chest permissible. Other white markings undesirable. Black muzzle is essential. |
| Average Litter Size: | 8 |
| Life Span: | 8-10 years |
| Grooming Requirements: |
Brush weekly. |
| Shedding: | Little |
| Social skills: |
Early socialization is required. Should get along with other household pets. |
| Suitability for Children: | The Bullmastiff tolerates children rather well. |
| Exercise Needs: | Until 12 months old, limit exercise. Too much at an early age may cause bone and joint problems later in life. After 12 months on light exercise is necessary. |
| Train Ability: | Begin obedience training early. Consistency and patience required. The Bullmastiff responds well to sensitive, firm owner. |
| Health Issues: | Diseases that may be inherited in Bullmastiff breed include hip and elbow dysplasia, retinal atrophy (blindness), entropion (eye defect), cystine urolithiasis (urinary tract stones), cerebellar abiotrophy (poor movement coordination), cervical vertebral instability (spine cord defects), and neuroaxonal dystrophy (poor balance). |
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Negative Characteristics: | Due to its strength, stubborn and over protective nature, the Bullmastiff is not recommended for inexperienced owners. Some may be heavy droolers. |