Bullmastiff

The Bullmastiff's nickname, "The Gamekeeper's Night Dog," is a nod to its origin, as they were once used in England to catch poachers in the 1800s. Their name and breed combine the Bulldog and the Mastiff, a powerful protector that’s both intimidating and controllable. Trainable and with a subdue-rather-than-attack temperament, the Bullmastiff became a gamekeeper's trusted companion. They’ve since morphed into a trusted and loyal companion dog. 

The Bullmastiff's ideal owner is someone who possesses a healthy dose of humor and patience. These loveable goofballs often see themselves as lapdogs and might resist exercise, especially if they can convince you to become a cozy doggy bed on a rainy day. Motivational skills will come in handy to keep them active and healthy. Because Bullmastiffs can be wary of strangers and other dogs, their owners should be enthusiastic about training and socialization. This commitment helps ensure a well-adjusted Bullmastiff who feels comfortable and confident when encountering new people and furry friends.

Bullmastiffs require moderate exercise, but it's important to be mindful of their age. While daily walks and playtime are important for adults, excessive exercise, jumping, or stairs should be avoided until they are at least a year old to prevent potential bone and joint problems later in life. Shorter walks and supervised outdoor time are ideal for puppies. As adults, a brisk walk (they’re not the best jogging buddies) or outdoor play session for about an hour a day will keep them happy and content. Their size and strength do require a securely fenced yard for safe outdoor adventures.

Due to their large size, Bullmastiffs are best suited for homes with ample space. A large house provides enough room for them to move around comfortably, while a securely fenced garden allows them to enjoy the outdoors safely. When designing your outdoor space, consider how visitors and deliveries will access the front door, as you might need to create a separate pathway to avoid unexpected encounters with your Bullmastiff.

The Bullmastiff's short coat is a blessing for busy dog owners. Brushing with a grooming mitt at least once a week is typically all that's needed to remove loose hair and keep their coat healthy. Regular brushing helps manage shedding, and baths should only be given when necessary. Keeping an eye on their skin and coat for signs of dryness or oiliness is important, as these could be linked to dietary issues or allergies.

Owning a Bullmastiff requires a commitment to training. Their independent streak means traditional obedience might not be their forte, but leash and harness training is crucial for safe walks with this powerful breed. While their protectiveness is valued, it needs to be managed through positive exposure to people and animals. The good news is that Bullmastiffs are intelligent and can excel in various activities, making training a fun and rewarding way to build a strong bond with your furry friend.

While Bullmastiffs are friendly with their loved ones, their protectiveness and suspicion of strangers can be a concern. Their size and strength necessitate careful supervision, especially with young children. Additionally, their playfulness might sometimes be misinterpreted as roughhousing, potentially leading to unintentional harm. Therefore, Bullmastiffs might be a better fit for families with older, dog-savvy teenagers who can provide the training and socialization these dogs need to thrive.

The cost of a Bullmastiff from a breeder is significantly more than the cost of adopting one from a local shelter or rescue. The adoption fee usually covers additional items such as spaying or neutering, vaccines, and microchipping.