Mary Allen
The Bullmastiff looks impressive due to its strong stature and self-confident appearance. Nevertheless, behind the massive facade, there is a loving and good-natured dog, which impresses above all with its composure. In the profile, you get all the information you need about the dog breed. 😉
History of the Bullmastiff
The Bullmastiff is a relatively young dog breed and has only been popular in England since the 19th century. At that time, poor social conditions prevailed for the population, which is why they hunted on the lands of the landlords. The landowners then deploy game wardens who, together with specially trained dogs, should put an end to the goings-on. The dog had to be able to grab the poacher and pin him to the ground without killing him. As a deterrent, the lawbreaker was to be publicly hanged.
This is how a cross between an Old English Mastiff and an Old English Bulldog created the perfect protection dog for game wardens. Through continuous selection inbreeding, the current appearance gradually developed. Initially, however, the English referred to the breed as “Gamekeeper’s Night Dog”. On December 24, 1924, the English Kennel Club recognized this new breed under the name “Bullmastiff”.
Around 1920, oil tycoon Rockefeller brought the first Bullmastiffs to the United States to guard his estate and the breed slowly spread there as well. In the course of the 20th century, the police in particular used the brawny dog as a service dog. Gradually, however, he also found a growing following among private individuals. Internationally, he is classified in FCI Group 2, Section 2, Molossoids.
Traits and Character Traits
The Bullmastiff is an even-tempered, highly people-oriented, and friendly dog. He is quite undemanding and adapts to his human pack in every situation. Even if he seems a bit sluggish at first glance, he is a good watchdog and can independently assess whether there is danger or not. When excited, he does not bark wildly, but wrinkles his forehead and gives a silent signal. The breed is considered very sovereign and has a strong self-confidence that cannot be defeated.
The dog submits only to a strong and consistent person. With a good upbringing, the gentle giant is usually absolutely fond of children and, if socialized successfully, has no problem with other dogs. The Bullmastiff is not hectic and likes to lie on the sofa with his master and mistress for a while. At times, the big dog even seems to forget that he is no longer a puppy and, despite his enormous size, cuddles upon his human’s lap.
How Do I Keep a Bullmastiff?
Considerations before purchasing
The decision to bring a Bullmastiff home should be long and well thought out. The breed is generally only suitable for knowledgeable and dog-experienced people. The pedigree dog is not very demanding when it comes to keeping it and feels at home wherever it does not have to be alone. The family connection is very important for him to be happy. Since the Bullmastiff is on the list of dangerous dog breeds in Baden-Württemberg, Bavaria, Berlin, Brandenburg and Hamburg, keeping them here is only possible to a limited extent or not at all.
If you are absolutely sure that this breed is the right one for you, the best way to find a reputable breeder is through the VDH (German Kennel Club) or the FCI (Federation Cynologique Internationale). For a healthy puppy from a good breed, you can calculate up to 1000€. If you’re on a tighter budget and want to do a good deed at the same time, check out your local animal shelter. Here you will always find a Bullmastiff that has gotten into trouble and is now looking for a loving new home.
Puppy education and development
The Bullmastiff puppy is a cute fellow who needs a consistent and non-violent upbringing from a young age. If you can’t get the dog under control as a puppy, it will be all the more difficult with the adult muscle man. Such a large dog with a strong protective instinct must be prepared from the start to be a reliable companion dog. The Bullmastiff can be a little stubborn and headstrong at times depending on how they are on the day. Then it’s up to you to convince the puppies in a gentle and friendly way that it’s fun to work with you. Stress and violence are completely out of place here, as you achieve far more with rewards. If you still need support with one or the other thing, you should visit a dog school. Here the puppy can also get in touch with other dogs and learn social behavior more easily.