The Bullmastiff.

Description: The original Bullmastiff was developed by game keepers to assist them in tackling poachers during the later part of the 19th century. To survive in country areas, poaching became rife despite the knowledge that if caught, penalties would be excessively harsh. The composition is 60% Mastiff and 40% Bulldog, produced a dog of size, courage, spirit and determination, capable of moving at good speed over comparatively short distances, plus a good nose and silence when on the trail.  The Bullmastiff was not designed with attack and defence in mind, but as a holding dog to knock down the poachers and hold them at bay and fend off their dogs until the game keeper could approach and apprehend them.

The bullmastiff is a powerfully built, symmetrical dog showing great strength. His temperament combines high spirits reliability, activity, endurance and alertness. The Bullmastiff is a natural guardian of the home and family. 

Height: Male Bullmastiffs range from 25 inches to 27 inches. Female Bullmastiffs range from 24 inches to 26 inches. Measured at the shoulder.

Weight: Male Bullmastiffs range 50 to 59Kg. Female Bullmastiffs range from 41 to 50kg. 

Colours: Bullmastiffs are usually shades of brindle, fawn or red.

Coat: Bullmastiffs have a short and dense coat, which requires minimal brushing.

Temperament: The Bullmastiff is a protective and alert dog who makes a good watchdog. High-spirited and loyal, the Bullmastiff loves human attention and is devoted to its family.

Health Concerns: The Bullmastiff is susceptible to hip dysplasia, cancer, eyelid problems, and gastric torsion. For this reason it is important to purchase a bullmastiff from a trusted, registered breeder who has their dogs hip and elbow x-rayed.

Hand Drawn Artwork By Sharron Hulley

Life Expectancy: The expected life span of the Bullmastiff is 8-10 years.

Living Environment: As the bullmastiff was developed to guard estates, Bullmastiffs should be kept in a house with a fenced yard. It should be excellent fencing being both high and solid.

Ideal Owners: Family/People who are willing to continually socialize and take their Bullmastiff to obedience. This is a guarding breed and needs constant and continual interaction with people and other dogs. This dog definitely needs to know his boundaries and his status within the household. The owners need to allow this dog to realise he is not top dog when it comes to his family. The owners should always be the pack leader in the dog eyes. This is easily achieved by adhering to the above advise. This is not a breed to leave in the backyard. The owner of a Bullmastiff should be a firm and confident leader who understands the power of this dog breed.
This dog is good with children when raised with them as a pup. Be aware though that an adult Bullmastiff will need to get used to children slowly and positively when being introduced at a later stage of life. It is always a great idea to have a separate area where you can lock your dog away from the children when they are outside playing to they can't rough house each other. This is also a great way for family friends and other children to feel at ease when at your house.
 

Bullmastiff Breed Delegate: Natalie Pournaris. 

Breeders. Avantguard 0401 974 358. Gameguard.(02)45721226. Sanduka.(03) 5944 4260.  Nightquest Puppies due. 0359981728.   RHUBIN (03) 9754 1709 

BULAVISTA 03 5931 0323.