Bullmastiff
Quick Summary
Powerful yet gentle giants ideal for experienced owners seeking loyal guardians. Best suited for spacious homes with secure yards. Requires commitment to training and health management.
Contents
Weight Range
100-130 lbs
♂ Male: 110-130 lbs
♀ Female: 100-120 lbs
Height Range
61-69 inches
♂ Male: 25-27"
♀ Female: 25-27"
Life Expectancy
7-9 years
Average lifespan with proper care and nutrition
Intelligence
Rank #68
Average Intelligence
Breed Group
Working Group
Originally bred for Developed in England during the 1800s by gamekeepers to combat poaching
Popularity
#51
Moderately popular breed
Compatibility Ratings
Behavior & Training
Physical Characteristics
| Male Height | 25"-27" |
| Female Height | 25"-27" |
| Male Weight | 110-130 lbs |
| Female Weight | 100-120 lbs |
| Coat Length | 1/5 |
| Drooling Level | 3/5 |
Cost & Ownership
Cost Category
Initial costs include $1500-3000 for purchase, plus setup expenses. Monthly costs average $150-200 for food and basic care. Annual medical expenses range $500-1000, with potential for higher emergency costs.
Training & Socialization
Training Difficulty
Naturally protective and loyal, Bullmastiffs display calm confidence and gentle affection toward family. Their moderate energy levels and patient nature make them excellent companions, though they require consistent training to manage their size and strength.
Social Needs
Requires significant family interaction and early socialization. Generally reserved with strangers and other dogs. Can handle moderate alone time if properly trained, but thrives on human companionship.
Breed Overview
Powerful and majestic, Bullmastiffs showcase a muscular build with a distinctive broad head and dark muzzle. Their short fawn, red, or brindle coat complements their imposing yet gentle demeanor. Standing up to 27 inches at the shoulder with males weighing up to 130 pounds, these dogs combine strength with surprising agility. Their watchful expression and noble bearing reflect their heritage as guardian breeds.
Key Highlights
Pros
- ✓ Loyal and protective
- ✓ Good with family
- ✓ Low grooming needs
- ✓ Quiet nature
- ✓ Excellent guardians
Cons
- ✗ Heavy droolers
- ✗ Shorter lifespan
- ✗ Size management issues
- ✗ Not good with strangers
- ✗ Health concerns
Breed Characteristics
| Temperament | Affectionate, Loyal, Brave |
| Energy Level | Energetic |
| Trainability | Agreeable |
| Grooming Needs | Occasional Bath/Brush |
| Shedding | Seasonal |
Exercise & Nutrition
Exercise Requirements
Requires 45-60 minutes of daily exercise through moderate walks, play sessions, and mental stimulation activities. While energetic, they don't need excessive exercise. Activities should be structured to avoid overheating, especially in warm weather.
Diet & Nutrition
Adult Bullmastiffs require 4-6 cups of high-quality dry food daily, divided into 2-3 meals. Special attention needed for portion control to prevent obesity. Large-breed specific formula recommended for proper growth.
Feed 4-6 cups of premium large-breed dog food daily, divided into 2-3 meals. Monitor calorie intake to prevent obesity. Consider supplements for joint health. Fresh water must always be available.
Environment & Living Space
Living Requirements
Best suited for homes with adequate space and secure fencing. Adapts well to suburban or rural settings. Though large, can adjust to apartment living if properly exercised and trained.
Requires minimum 1000 square feet of living space with secure outdoor area. Adapts well to various home sizes if exercise needs are met. Fenced yard essential for safety and exercise.
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
History & Origin
British gamekeepers crafted the Bullmastiff in the mid-1800s by crossing Mastiffs with Bulldogs. The goal was to create a swift, powerful, yet quiet guardian capable of tracking and subduing poachers on large estates.
Historical Purpose
Developed in England during the 1800s by gamekeepers to combat poaching. Combined strength of Mastiff with agility of Bulldog to create silent guardians for large estates.
Fun Fact
Despite their imposing size, Bullmastiffs were bred to be 'silent guardians' and rarely bark unnecessarily.
Grooming & Maintenance
Special Considerations
Requires early socialization and training to manage size. Drooling and shedding need regular attention. Health monitoring essential due to breed-specific issues.