|
History
True to his name, the Bullmastiff originated through crosses between bulldogs and mastiffs, probably as early as the late 18th century. The breed was not officially recognized until the 1920s, however. The Bullmastiff was developed as a gameskeeper's dog; his job was to track down, tackle, and then hold down the poachers so the gameskeeper could take them into custody. The dogs were fierce and tenacious, but were trained not to bite intruders. When gameskeepers' needs for dogs decreased, the dark brindle dogs so good for night camouflage gave way in popularity to the lighter fawn colorations. Today's Bullmastiff has the same general look as his working ancestors, but he is generally cherished as a reliable, loyal family companion and guardian.
Description
The Bullmastiff is a very powerful, not over-heavy mastiff with a broad wrinkled head and fairly short, square dark muzzle (about 1/3 the length of the whole head). The nose is black with large nostrils. The dark, medium sized eyes should have an alert, intelligent expression. The V-shaped, wide-set ears are pendant and dark colored. The teeth should meet in a level or slightly undershot bite. The short back is straight and level between the withers and the loin. The tapering tail is set high and reaches to the hocks. The short, smooth coat comes in brindle, fawn or red, often with a black mask and black ears.
Talents
Tracking, watchdog, guarding, and police work.
Personality
An alert guard dog. Loyal and devoted, with a good-natured temperament, though he tends to be willful. Docile unless provoked; if provoked he is reputed to be fearless and protective. Needs a firm master and should be thoroughly obedience trained for safety. Be sure to socialize extensively with both people and other dogs at an early age. Despite his guard dog characteristics, the Bullmastiff is considered a loyal and affectionate breed that is relatively mellow.
Behavior
Children: Good with children only when raised with them from puppyhood.
Friendliness: Reserved with strangers.
Trainability: Not easy to train.
Independence: Moderately dependent on people.
Dominance: High.
Other Pets: May be aggressive with same-sex dogs; do not trust with non-canine pets.
Combativeness: Tends to be fairly dog aggressive.
Noise: Not a barker.
Notes
The Bullmastiff can be aggressive with other dogs, but may be okay with other pets if raised with them from puppyhood. (Note: The Bullmastiff is a more aggressive breed than the Mastiff.) Tends to drool and snore. Puppies may seem uncoordinated. Be sure to exercise this breed and not overfeed him, as he tends to put on weight. Lives about 8-10 years. Beware of hip dysplasia, tumors, bloat, and eyelid problems. Buy only from OFA certified stock. Also prone to boils on the lips. This extremely powerful dog should be trained not to pull on the leash!
Grooming
Grooming: A little grooming needed.
Trimming & Stripping: No trimming or stripping needed.
Coat: Short coat.
Shedding: Average shedder.
Exercise: Moderate exercise needed.
Jogging: A good jogging companion.
Indoors: Relatively inactive indoors.
Apartments: Will be OK in an apartment if sufficiently exercised.
Outdoor Space: A small yard is sufficient.
Climate: Does well in most climates.
Owner: Not recommended for novice owners.
Longevity: Short (under 10 years).
|
