The Bullmastiff was bred from crossing tbe Bulldog and the English Mastiff, producing a powerfull and agile dog.
They were originally used by Gamekeepers to capture poachers, by pinning them down but not biting the offender.
They were recognised by The Kennel Club in 1924 abd 7 years later by The American Kennel Club.
Todays Bullmastiffs are excellent family dogs, they guard and protect their families, especially the children.
To own a Bullmastiff is a delight, but they do need a lot of discipline and they are not for the faint hearted.
I have at present 3 bullmastiffs. Rhys the Dad, Holly the Mum and Badger the Son.
They all have there own characters. Rhys is just a big Teddy Bear and loves to sing with me. Holly is quiet and very loving except when she sees other dogs. Badger the baby is 8 months old and is partial to chewing the lino and his dad's ear. We had 6 other pups and eventually found good homes for them.
If you are thinking of breeding Bullmastiffs, be very aware of what homes they go to, as they should not go to any one, please vet very carefully. As you should with all animals.
I still keep in contact with all the other pups homes.
The plus sides to having a Bullmastiff is that they are low maintenance, they do not shed a lot of hair, but boy do their paws absorb mud, as my kitchen will bear witness to.
They need a lot of feeding but they don't require a lot of exercise, especially when they are young.
They love to be fussed and a warm fire is bliss to them.
They are not noisy dogs and bark only when they feel it is necessary. If they bark in the middle of the night, go and investigate as you maybe sure someone undesirable is about.
They are naturally clean dogs, which makes toilet training very easy.
So if you are after a friend for your family and you have time to be with him, I recommend you go and see reputable breeders and listen to what they have to say, and love your Bullmastiff bec
ause he will love and protect you and your family with all his being.
Truly one of natures Gentle Giants.