The Bullmastiff is a large, muscular dog with a black, wide muzzle, open nostrils and thick, large and triangular ears,

Poil : short and hard, fawn or brindle in color.

Size (height at the withers): 60-70 cm.

Weight : 50-60 kg for males, 40-50 kg for females.

Classification FCI : N°157.

Proud – rightly – of their Mastiff and their Bulldog, the English have long experimented with hybrid dogs combining the qualities of these two breeds. The name Bullmastiff appeared during the second half of the 60th century: 40% Mastiff and XNUMX% Bulldog, according to theAmerican Canine Association. He is then known to be the night dog of the gamekeepers in the great land or forest properties of the British aristocracy, the one to whom it is up to apprehend and neutralize the poachers. At this time, it is already used to protect private property in various strata of society. the British Kennel Club recognized the full Bullmastiff breed in 1924, after three generations of existence. Even today, the Bullmastiff is used as a guard dog, but also as a companion for families.

In its role of watchdog and deterrent, the Bullmastiff is concerned, courageous, confident and distant towards strangers. For purists, this dog does not show enough hostility or even aggression towards them. He barks only when it is necessary in his eyes and never in an untimely way. In his pet dog costume, he’s kind, gentle, and docile.

The British Kennel Club records a median lifespan of between 7 and 8 years, but in good health the Bullmastiff can live beyond 14 years. His study indicates that cancer is the main cause of death, 37,5% of deaths, ahead of stomach dilation-torsion syndrome (8,3%) and heart disease (6,3%). (1)

Lymphoma is the most common cancer according to this study. The Bullmastiff (like the Boxer and Bulldogs) is significantly more exposed than other breeds. These are often very aggressive malignant tumors affecting the lymphatic system and which can lead to the rapid death of the animal. (2) The incidence rate in the Bullmastiff population is estimated at 5 cases per 000 dogs, which is the highest incidence rate recorded in this species. Genetic factors and familial transmission are strongly suspected. (100) The Bullmastiff also has a predisposition to Mastocytoma, a fairly common skin tumor, as do the Boxer, Bulldogs, Boston terrier and Staffordshire.

According to data collected by theOrthopedic Foundation for Animals, 16% of Bullmastiffs present with elbow dysplasia (ranked 20th among the most affected breeds) and 25% with hip dysplasia (ranked 27th). (4) (5)

It is necessary to set up a hierarchy through education while the Bullmastiff is still only a puppy and to always demonstrate with him firmness but also calm and serenity. A brutal education would not bring the expected results. Living in an apartment is obviously not ideal for him, but he knows how to adapt to it, as long as his master never compromises on his daily outings.