The Bullmastiff is a strong and powerfully built animal that possesses great intelligence and a willingness to please, making them ideal family companions and protectors. Although large, the breed remains both agile and active and is successful in conformation, obedience, agility, tracking, carting and therapy work. The Bullmastiff’s coat may be red, fawn or brindle.
A Look Back
The Bullmastiff’s known history in England begins around 1860, when they were developed to keep large estates and game preserves free of poachers. Gameskeepers needed a dog that could track quietly, cover short distances quickly and pin and hold poachers without mauling them. The foundation breeding was 60% Mastiff and 40% Bulldog; breeders were hoping to create a dog faster and more aggressive than the Mastiff, yet bigger than and not as ferocious as the Bulldog.
The Bullmastiff’s known history in England begins around 1860, when they were developed to keep large estates and game preserves free of poachers. Gameskeepers needed a dog that could track quietly, cover short distances quickly and pin and hold poachers without mauling them. The foundation breeding was 60% Mastiff and 40% Bulldog; breeders were hoping to create a dog faster and more aggressive than the Mastiff, yet bigger than and not as ferocious as the Bulldog.
Right Breed for You?
The Bullmastiff is fearless and confident, yet remains docile and sweet-natured with his family. They are natural guardians of the home, but do not bark much, as silence was a virtue when guarding estates. Bullmastiffs are independent thinkers and may not respond to traditional obedience training. The breed does not require much exercise or grooming, and can live happily in a house or apartment.
The Bullmastiff is fearless and confident, yet remains docile and sweet-natured with his family. They are natural guardians of the home, but do not bark much, as silence was a virtue when guarding estates. Bullmastiffs are independent thinkers and may not respond to traditional obedience training. The breed does not require much exercise or grooming, and can live happily in a house or apartment.
Source: American Kennel Club - www.akc.org
Grooming
General: Bullmastiff’s are a short flat coated breed that sheds throughout the year, even in the winter time. Grooming is suggested for 4 – 8 week intervals to clean ears, clip nails, check anal glands and insure the coat and skin are in healthy condition.
Eyes: Eyes should be alert and bright. Use Optisoothe during the bath to flush any foreign objects. Because of the large flaps and folds around the eye and nose area, Bullmastiff’s need daily to weekly care of the area. The flaps and folds are very moist and prone to growing red yeast and cause a foul odor in this area. Moisture makes the area red and raw. Keeping these areas dry and clean is a necessity. Oatmeal Baking Soda facial cleaners are a great way to manage the facial odors and keep your dog comfortable.
Ears: Monthly ear cleaning with Ear Care is advised to be sure no ear problems that might need vet attention arise. Only clean as far as you can see, never further.
Bathing: Bullmastiff’s require 2 baths when you bathe them. The first bath should be a general bath, any of our Classic Care or Professional Care products are perfect. If your mastiff has allergies or sensitive skin we would suggest a Hypo-Allergenic Coconut Shampoo and follow it with a medicated shampoo depending on your dogs needs. If your mastiff has normal skin then the second bath you would want to pick one of out wonderful Scent Renewal shampoos and conditioners. Follow the bath with a conditioner or Luxury Remoisturizer to keep the coat in great shape.
Paws. Paw Balm should be used weekly as well, paw pads that are soft and pliable are less likely to dry and crack
Coat Care: Bullmastiff’s have a short dense coat. Aloe Hydrating spray between baths to keep the coat moisturized and in great shape.
Show Dog Tips: Show Style’s Silky Show Shampoo and Conditioner to keep moisture in the coat as well as silk proteins.. Show Style High Sheen Spray right before entering the show ring will add the little extra shine without any oily residue.
Tools: Shedding blade can be used to pull out the dead coat. Short coated breeds shed all year around and so they constantly need to be brushed.
