Bullmastiff

Gamekeeper's Night Dog
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Face-On View
3/4 View
Sideways View
Standing View

Summary

  • The Bullmastiff is a large, powerful breed developed in England for guarding estates, known for its loyalty and protectiveness. They are generally calm and good with family, requiring moderate exercise and consistent training.

Origin and Purpose

  • Developed in England in the mid-1800s to guard estates and game preserves from poachers. Bred by crossing the Old English Mastiff and the Bulldog

Appearance

Dimensions

GenderHeightWeight
Female24-26 inches100-120 pounds
Male25-27 inches110-130 pounds

Coat

AttributeNotes
Color
  • Fawn
  • Red
  • Brindle
  • sometimes with a black mask
Type
  • Short, dense
Length
  • Short

Care

AttributeNotes
Shedding
  • Moderate
Grooming
  • Weekly brushing
Drooling
  • Moderate

Body

AttributeNotes
Head
  • Large, broad, and square
Skull
  • Large and broad with a well-defined stop
Ears
  • V-shaped, set wide apart
Eyes
  • Dark, moderate size
Nose
  • Black, broad nostrils
Muzzle
  • Short, broad, and deep
Teeth
  • Scissor bite preferred, level acceptable
Neck
  • Muscular, slightly arched
Forequarters
  • Powerful and muscular
Fore Legs
  • Straight and well-boned
Hindquarters
  • Broad and muscular
Hind Legs
  • Strong and well-muscled
Feet
  • Well-arched, round and compact
Tail
  • Set on high, thick at the root, tapering to the hock
Gait
  • Powerful, smooth, and ground-covering

Temperament

  • Courageous, loyal, calm, confident, and docile with family

Social

AttributeNotes
Affectionate with Family
  • Very affectionate
Good with Children
  • Generally good with children, especially when raised with them
Good with Dogs
  • Can be good with other dogs if properly socialized; may be dominant
Good with Cats
  • Can be good with cats if properly socialized; may have a prey drive
Openness to Strangers
  • Reserved or aloof with strangers, Protective.
Playfulness Level
  • Moderate
Protective Nature
  • Highly protective
Adaptability Level
  • Moderate

Working Roles

  • Guard dog
  • Companion dog
  • Estate protection

Exercise Needs

  • Moderate; daily walks or play sessions

Health

  • Prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, bloat, heart issues, and certain cancers.

Additional Notes

  • Early socialization and training are essential. Known for their quiet nature and loyalty.

References