
| AKC Group: | Working |
| A.K.A.: | N/A |
| Functions: | Companion, Guard Dog |
| Year of Origin: | 1800s |
| Country of Origin: | England |
| Life Span (yr): | 8 - 10 |
| Colors: | Red, Fawn, Brindle |
| Height (Inch): | 24 - 27 |
| Weight (lb): | 100 - 150 |
| Size: | Very Large |
| Hair Length: | Short |
| Energy: | |
| Playfulness: | |
| Ease of Training: | |
| Exercise Needed: | |
| Self Protection: | |
| Grooming: | |
| Shedding: | |
| Watch Dog: | |
| Living Area: |
Appearance:
Enormous and intelligent, the Bullmastiff is a regal looking breed of dog. He has dark eyes that are moderately sized. His ears are set apart and shaped like Vs as they hang near his head. His ears are usually darker than the rest of his coat. He has a large, wide, black nose. The neck of the Bullmastiff is muscular and has an arch to it – it almost makes him appear graceful. His muscular features also include his back, legs, and even his tail. The coat of the Bullmastiff is thick and provides good protection during inclement weather – whether rain or snow.
Temperament:
Brave and self-confident, yet ever calm, the Bullmastiff will amaze his owner with his pleasant temperament – despite his massive size. He is reliable and bright. He is also always ready, willing, and able to please his master. He can be depended on by his family and consequently is a great addition to any family unit. He wants to protect those he loves, but will rarely become hostile. The Bullmastiff thrives on attention and love from his family but also needs a strong master that will direct him. He likes children, but can easily injure them because of his large size and his extremely powerful muscles.
Health:
Although he is a lovely dog, the Bullmastiff is predisposed to several terrible medical conditions. Cancer is one of the most prominent illnesses that is faced by the Bullmastiff – unfortunately, it usually results in death. He is also prone to tumors and boils on his body and lips. There have been reports of Progressive Retinal Atrophy – a condition where the rods and cones of his eyes are defected. It can lead to blindness. Of course, hip dysplasia is seen in many dogs. The size of the Bullmastiff alone makes it a probably condition. However, keeping him steady and preventing him from jumping from tall places may help reduce the likelihood of the condition.
Maintenance:
Even though the Bullmastiff is huge, he is easy to groom. His coat is rough and short, so all he needs is a comb and a brush and he can go on his way. If he becomes smelly, he can be bathed. But if he is bathed too often, he could develop skin irritations or reduce the water repellant nature of his coat. His nails should be trimmed every few weeks. Doing so will comfort his feet and protect hardwood floors. The Bullmastiff is not an active dog. In fact, he prefers to lie around and soak in the sun over going for a walk. However, for his own health, he should be taken out for some exercise every day.
