BULLMASTIFF FAQS

Is the Bullmastiff good with children?

Most Bullmastiffs are good with children if they are brought up with children and common sense is used.  Never forget that while not an aggressive dog, the Bullmastiff is a protective dog.  The Bullmastiff will want to protect your child, and if it fears your child is in danger, may react.  If other children are over and are running, screaming and punching each other, which children often do, the dog may not be able to distinguish whether those actions are serious or not, and if it feels they are serious, may try to interfere.  The Bullmastiff should never be left unsupervised with other children.  And the dominant puppy in a Bullmastiff litter should never be placed in a home with children.

How big will my Bullmastiff get?

There is a “standard” written for the Bullmastiff which describes the physical and mental attributes of the breed to be followed.  The size of a Bullmastiff at maturity is solely determined by genetics.  A knowledgeable breeder can give you an idea of  puppy’s ultimate size, but can often be fooled.  Feeding a dog more in the hopes of making him bigger will only harm the dog as it will put unnecessary strain on its rapidly growing bones and joints.  (You wouldn’t do that to a child, would you?).  As this is a breed that is prone to Hip Dysplasia, it is most important that the Bullmastiff be kept lean as a puppy.  The dog will reach its ultimate size sooner or later, it is better that is later.

How active is the Bullmastiff?  Can I take it for a run or jog?

The Bullmastiff is a relatively inactive dog indoors, although it does require some exercise so that it does not get fat.  Unlike dogs that were meant to run and hunt all day, which requires a lot of stamina, the Bullmastiff was not.  Therefore, it is not a good idea to run or jog with a Bullmastiff, they have neither the build or the stamina for it (you never see body builders in long distance races, do you?) unless they are conditioned for it.  The activity level of the Bullmastiff will vary depending on the breeder, so consult your breeder prior to purchase.

How does the Bullmastiff react to the heat and cold?

The Bullmastiff is basically an indoor dog.  It does not do well in either extremes of weather.  While it does enjoy the snow, it does not get a heavy coat, and in frigid weather, should only be let outdoors for short periods of time.  Extreme care should be taken in warm climates or when the weather is hot.  Like its relative the Bulldog, the Bullmastiff does not fare well in the heat.  In the summers months, only exercise your Bullmastiff in the cool parts of the day, early morning and after the sun has set.  Be extremely careful in the warm weather.  Also, remember the Bullmastiff was bred to be with man.  He does not like to be outside by himself (often even with other dog companions).  He will use his head and large chest to walk through all types of fencing.  Bullmastiffs left outside while their owners are away are likely to get into trouble or be gone when the owner returns having searched out other human companionship.

Do Bullmastiffs get along well with other dogs?

As a general rule, mature males do not get along with other males of any large working breed.  Occasionally, females will not tolerate other females.  If you are planning on purchasing two Bullmastiffs, the best combination is one of each sex.  Although there are exceptions, I would never recommend having two Bullmastiffs of the same sex.  Also, remember that if you or your Bullmastiff is challenged or threatened during your walks, he will not back down and will usually finish the fight.  Keep an alert eye and keep your Bullmastiff out of trouble.  Letting a Bullmastiff run loose with other dogs will usually lead to trouble.  Be careful.

What should I look for in a breeder?