Group: Working

Weight: male 110-130, female: 100-120 lbs

Height: male: 25-27, female: 24-26 inches



History

The Bullmastiff came about by 60% Mastiffs with 40% Bulldogs in the country of England. The Mastiff Bulldog can be found in records as early back as 1795 - in 1924 the Bullmastiff began to be judged. The Bullmastiff was used as a gamekeeper's dog to trail down, tackle and hold poachers. The dogs were violent and intimidating, but they were trained not to bite the intruders. These dogs have been prized as a hunting guard, as an aid in army and police work and they have also been used as a watchdog by the Diamond Society of South Africa.

Characteristics

Bullmastiffs can be very shy around strangers, and these dogs should be correctly socialized during puppy hood. They have been used many times as watch or guard dogs. They should also be introduced to other animals at an early stage to avoid any altercations that may arise. The Bullmastiff is a commanding, yet at times passive breed.

Temperament

The Bullmastiff is a loyal and alert guard dog. They also have a very pleasant nature - though they can be quite wilful. They are also very passive, unless they are provoked. They are brave and very protective, yet also very affectionate. Although they are doubtful to attack, they will catch an impostor, thump him down and hold him. They are at the same time very tolerant of children and also very intelligent, calm, calm and loyal. These dogs very much thrive on human attention. The Bullmastiff is an extremely commanding dog and needs a firm owner. They should be carefully obedience trained for protection, and should be taught not to pull on the restraint.

Care

Grooming for Bullmastiffs are very low maintenance. All that needs to be done is to keep their coats in good condition by occasionally brushing it. A massage glove to rub down the coat and remove any dead hair can also be used. Bullmastiffs are medium shedders. During times when their shedding is more heavily, they might have to be brushed on a more regular basis. For more detailed info, take a look at the Bullmastiff Grooming page.

Training

Bullmastiffs are very sensitive to the tone of their owners' voice. They should be handled firmly if they are to succeed in training. These dogs can do well in obedience training. They do exceptionally well as a guard or watch dogs.

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