Bullmastiff
LoyalBraveDocile
England · 7–9 years
About the Bullmastiff
The Bullmastiff was developed in 19th-century England by crossing Bulldogs with Mastiffs to create the ideal gamekeeper's night dog — a breed large enough to overpower poachers but controlled enough to hold them without mauling. The result is a powerful, confident, and surprisingly agile guardian breed. Bullmastiffs are devoted to their families and naturally protective without being aggressive. They are quiet, calm, and docile house dogs that transform into alert, fearless protectors when they sense a genuine threat.
Breed stats
- Height
- 24–27 in
- Weight
- 100–130 lbs
- Lifespan
- 7–9 years
- Group
- Working
- Coat
- Short, dense, slightly rough
- Origin
- England
Coat colors
- Fawn
- Red
- Brindle
Temperament & ratings
Compatibility
Exercise & feeding
Daily exercise
30–60 min
per day recommended
Daily food
3–4.5 cups
high-quality dry food
Common health issues
- Hip dysplasia
- Elbow dysplasia
- Bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus)
- Lymphoma
- Entropion
Not every Bullmastiff will develop these conditions, but awareness helps with early detection. Regular veterinary checkups and choosing a responsible breeder who health-tests their dogs are the best preventive measures.
Can Bullmastiffs eat...
- Can dogs eat blueberries?Safe
- Can dogs eat grapes?Toxic
- Can dogs eat bananas?Safe
- Can dogs eat chocolate?Toxic
- Can dogs eat watermelon?Safe
- Can dogs eat cheese?Caution
- Can dogs eat almonds?Caution
- Can dogs eat apples?Safe
Frequently Asked Questions
- Bullmastiffs are not inherently aggressive — they are naturally protective but controlled. They were specifically bred to apprehend without attacking, which gives them a measured, confident temperament rather than a reactive one. Well-bred, properly socialized Bullmastiffs are gentle with their families and reserved but non-aggressive with strangers. However, they are powerful dogs with strong guardian instincts, so early socialization, consistent training, and responsible ownership are essential. Without proper upbringing, any large guardian breed can become problematic.
- Bullmastiffs have moderate exercise needs compared to many working breeds. About 30 to 60 minutes of daily activity — a couple of walks and some play time — is usually sufficient. They are not high-energy dogs and are content to be calm house dogs for most of the day. Over-exercising puppies should be avoided, as their rapid growth puts stress on developing joints. Adult Bullmastiffs enjoy walks and yard play but are not jogging or hiking partners. Their exercise needs make them surprisingly manageable for their size.
- Bullmastiffs have a relatively short lifespan of 7 to 9 years, which is common among large and giant breeds. The primary health concerns that can shorten their lives include cancer (particularly lymphoma), bloat, and joint problems. Choosing a puppy from health-tested parents, maintaining a healthy weight, feeding a high-quality diet, and regular veterinary checkups can help maximize lifespan. Some Bullmastiffs live beyond 10 years, but prospective owners should be prepared for the breed's shorter life expectancy compared to smaller dogs.
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