
The huge bullmastiff dog is a gentle giant, weighing between 110-130 pounds and standing 24-27 inches tall.
These massive dogs were originally bred to guard estates and palaces in England, where they would protect the wealthy from poachers.
Their short coats require minimal grooming, but they do need regular exercise to stay happy and healthy.
Bullmastiffs are known for their calm and even-tempered nature, making them a great choice for families with children.
Bullmastiff Basics
The Bullmastiff is a relatively new breed that originated in England in 1860, specifically designed to be a capable yet disciplined helper for gamekeepers on English estates.
Bullmastiffs typically weigh between 100 – 130 pounds.
They're a sensitive breed that requires a gentle, positive approach from their owners to put them at ease.
Bullmastiffs are trainable and loyal, but they can also be stubborn at times.
Their enormous bodies require special consideration when it comes to food, exercise, and training needs.
With patience and attention from a young age, you can minimize situations that demand correction and ensure a happy, outgoing dog.
Temperament and Behavior
Bullmastiffs are affectionate and happy-go-lucky dogs who form deep bonds with their humans and are faithful companions.
They're not much of a barker, bred to be silent in their original mission to spot and pin down poachers. You wouldn't know they're around, except they're usually leaning against your leg or trying to fold themselves into your lap.
Bullmastiffs are not really aggressive, nor are they known for biting, but can be wary of strangers. Early training is essential to help them get used to having visitors in your home.
They're large dogs who often think they're toy-sized, so be sure to keep an eye out when they're around small children, cats, and smaller dogs.
Bullmastiffs generally have a calm temperament and are not known to be anxious or fearful, but they can be protective of their home and family when meeting new people and animals.
They're bright and biddable dogs, eager and intelligent, making training easy, but they can also be stubborn if they don't receive consistent training and leadership.
See what others are reading: Alternative Food for Dogs Instead of Dog Food
They're peaceful cuddle bugs who crave your company and will typically want to be in the same room with you, often by your feet, next to you, or actually on you as much as they can.
Bullmastiffs are more than 100 pounds of canine energy, requiring loving but firm guidance to control, and training should include setting boundaries early on.
Socialization is crucial to help your bullmastiff see new people, animals, and situations as good things, and they have a hard time with "no" sometimes meaning "maybe", so be consistent.
Bullmastiffs don't need daily intense exercise to be healthy and on their best behavior, but regular walks and praise reinforcement of good habits can help keep them content.
They're relatively quiet hounds who don't bark much and are known to be gentle giants, but they have a history of roaming large country estates and will alert you if anything seems amiss.
Bullmastiffs are very smart and learn quickly, so they do well in socialization classes, puppy training classes, and obedience training.
Care and Feeding
Taking care of a huge bullmastiff requires some special attention. They have a short coat that sheds year-round, so regular brushing is a must to keep it healthy and shiny.
You'll also need to spend time training your bullmastiff, as they are extremely intelligent and can learn quickly. However, they do have a lot of energy and can grow to be very strong, so early socialization and training are crucial to prevent accidents.
To minimize the risk of bloat or GDV, it's best to feed your bullmastiff two or three meals a day instead of one, and avoid exercise from one hour before to one hour after a meal.
A high-quality large- or giant-breed dry dog food with some canned food mixed in is the way to go. You should also avoid adding water to the dry food, especially if it contains citric acid, and not overfeed your bullmastiff.
Here are some tips to keep your bullmastiff's diet on track:
- Measure out the food for each meal to ensure you're feeding the proper amount
- Feed your bullmastiff according to the feeding guidelines on the dog food packaging
- Consult your veterinarian to determine the proper portion to feed your bullmastiff, based on ideal body weight and life stage
As for grooming, a bullmastiff won't need a lot of it, but they do drool a lot and can be prone to flatulence. Regular dental care, nail trimming, and ear checks can help keep them looking and smelling their best.
Health and Wellness
Bullmastiffs are a large breed of dog, and as such, they're prone to certain health issues. They typically live for 7-9 years.
One of the most common health issues affecting Bullmastiffs is hip and elbow dysplasia, a condition where the joint doesn't fit properly. This can be managed with regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and providing joint supplements.
Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus, or bloat, is another serious condition that can be life-threatening. To help prevent it, feed your Bullmastiff smaller meals throughout the day, and use a slow feeder bowl.
Cancer is also a concern for Bullmastiffs, with lymphoma and mast cell tumors being the most common types. If you notice any new lumps, get them checked out by a vet.
Here are some common health issues affecting Bullmastiffs:
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (bloat)
- Lymphoma
- Mast cell tumors
- Dilated cardiomyopathy (heart disease)
- Entropion (eyelid issues)
Dilated cardiomyopathy is a common heart disease in large breed dogs, and it can be genetic. There is a genetic screening test available for this condition.
In addition to these health issues, Bullmastiffs can also be prone to eye problems, such as entropion, where the eyelids roll inward and rub against the cornea.
Diet
A huge Bullmastiff dog requires a high-quality and well-balanced diet to stay healthy.
You'll want to look for dog food that meets standards set forth by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). This ensures the food provides the necessary nutrients for your dog's growth and development.
Puppies need specific nutrition for their developing musculoskeletal systems, so it's best to feed them puppy food specifically formulated for large dog breeds.
Brands like Hill's, Purina, and Royal Canin offer such formulas, which can be beneficial for your Bullmastiff puppy.
As your dog grows, you'll want to transition them to adult food, but be sure to follow the recommended feeding chart on commercial dog food to avoid overfeeding.
A good rule of thumb is to feed your Bullmastiff 4-6 cups of food split between two meals.
To minimize the risk of bloat, consider breaking up their meals and avoiding exercise immediately after eating.
Here are some tips to help you feed your Bullmastiff:
- Feed your dog two or three meals a day instead of one
- Put the food bowl on the floor rather than elevate it
- Feed them separately if there are multiple dogs in the house
- Avoid exercise from one hour before to one hour after a meal
- Add some canned food to the dry food
- Do not add water to the dry food, especially if the food contains citric acid
- Do not overfeed
- Use a slow-feeder bowl if your Bullmastiff eats too quickly
Remember to consult your veterinarian for personalized feeding recommendations based on your dog's age, health, and lifestyle.
Exercise and Training
Exercise and training are essential for a huge Bullmastiff dog. They need regular physical activity to stay healthy and happy.
A daily walk and playtime in a fenced-in yard are great ways to prevent obesity and boredom. These activities also strengthen your bond with your dog.
Bullmastiffs are intelligent dogs that are quick to learn during training classes, especially when started as puppies. They can excel in various training classes, including puppy classes, obedience, and agility.
To prevent mishaps, it's crucial to teach your puppy not to pull on the leash or jump on people during training. This will help them become a well-mannered family member.
A "place" command can be helpful in keeping your Bullmastiff calm when guests enter your home. This command teaches your dog to go sit in a specific spot every time.
Exercise

Bullmastiffs don't need hours of daily exercise, about 30 to 45 minutes is plenty.
As they get older, they'll still need regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. A daily walk and playtime in a fenced-in yard are great ways to prevent obesity and boredom.
Bullmastiffs are moderately sensitive to hot weather, so plan your outdoor activities around the cooler parts of the day.
In their first year, Bullmastiffs need around 40-45 minutes of exercise daily, gradually increasing from 1 minute per week of life.
As adults, Bullmastiffs need around 30-60 minutes of exercise daily, but avoid high-impact or strenuous workouts.
Walks, outdoor play in a fenced-in area, and indoor enrichment can be sufficient and safe ways to keep your dog at a healthy weight.
Training
Training is crucial for Bullmastiffs, as they're powerfully built and may not always know their strength. This means they need experienced pet parents who can dedicate time to socialization and training.

Large breeds like Bullmastiffs are intelligent and quick learners, so they pick up basic commands like sit, stay, and come right away. They can excel in a variety of training classes including puppy classes, obedience, and agility.
Bullmastiffs need firm, consistent training, which can be helpful for new pet parents. Attending a group training class or hiring a trainer who uses positive reinforcement can be beneficial.
"Place" is a great command to teach your Bullmastiff to keep them from bounding toward guests who enter your home. This command can be taught by encouraging your pup to go to a certain spot, like their bed, and rewarding them with treats and praise.
It's essential to start training your Bullmastiff while they're young, as they can become stubborn and difficult to train as they mature.
History
The Bullmastiff has a fascinating history that dates back to 19th-century England. The breed was created by crossing the Bulldog with the Mastiff to produce a large, quiet, and formidable guard dog.
Gamekeepers needed a dog that could catch poachers quickly and quietly, so they chose the Bullmastiff for the job. To double down on their ninja-like skills, gamekeepers preferred brindle dogs with subtle tiger stripes, allowing them to blend in at night.
The Bullmastiff quickly became a popular show dog, with gamekeepers competing over who had the most-prized dog. By the late 1920s, the breed was even used to guard the De Beers diamond mines in South Africa.
In 1933, the American Kennel Club recognized the Bullmastiff as an official breed. Today, you can find reputable breeders on the American Kennel Club's website, with prices ranging from $2,000 to $3,000 for a pup.
If you're interested in adopting a Bullmastiff, you can also reach out to Mastiff rescue organizations or check local animal shelters for available dogs.
Living with a Bullmastiff
Living with a Bullmastiff requires some consideration of their exercise needs. Bullmastiffs need a secured, fenced area in which to exercise, and shouldn't be taken off-leash except in their home environment. They're not built for marathon running, so nice, long walks will suit them just fine.
Their size is also a consideration when choosing a living situation. Bullmastiffs aren't fond of hot and humid conditions, so make sure to have a cool place for them to rest. A fenced-in backyard is important for allowing this breed an area to run around in and patrol.
Bullmastiffs are fairly easy to care for, but they do shed some year round. Regular brushing can keep their coat healthy and shiny. They're also sensitive to heat, so choose cool mornings or evenings for your steady walks.
Dog
Bullmastiffs are a sensitive breed, so they require a gentle and positive approach from their owners. This means using patience and attention from a young age to minimize situations that demand correction and ensure a happy, outgoing dog.
Their size is also a consideration when purchasing supplies, as everything from food and exercise requirements to training needs centers on their enormous bodies and potential challenges.
Bullmastiffs are trainable and loyal, but they can be stubborn at times, making early socialization and training a must. This will help them respond well to commands and behave in a well-mannered way.
Their broad wrinkled head, short square muzzle, and floppy ears may make them look like an oversized Pug, but their size won't stop them from trying to sit on your lap.
Here are some key characteristics of the Bullmastiff breed:
- Weight: 100-130 pounds
- Temperament: Loyal, intelligent, courageous, confident, alert, docile, wary, trainable but stubborn
As a guardian dog, Bullmastiffs are naturally protective of their family, but they can be wary of strangers, which means they may require some time to warm up to new people. With proper socialization and training, they can become excellent family dogs and companions.
Here's an interesting read: Are Mastiffs Good Family Dogs
Living Needs
Living with a Bullmastiff requires attention to their unique needs. They need a secured, fenced area for exercise, and shouldn't be taken off-leash except in their home environment.
Bullmastiffs can thrive in apartments if taken outside for regular walks and sniffs, but be aware of over-exertion, especially in young dogs and during hot summer months. Choose cool mornings or evenings for walks to keep them comfortable.
They have a short, close-fitting coat that sheds year-round, so regular brushing is necessary to keep it healthy and shiny. This will also help reduce shedding.
Bullmastiffs don't need a lot of exercise, but training is essential to keep them well-behaved. Early socialization and training are crucial to prevent stubbornness and aggression.
Bullmastiffs are sensitive dogs that require a gentle, positive approach from their owners. They're aware and alert to their family's needs, but may become defensive if not handled carefully.
In terms of size, Bullmastiffs can weigh up to 130 pounds, so be prepared for larger-than-average food and exercise needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How big is the biggest Bullmastiff?
The largest Bullmastiffs typically reach 27 inches in height and weigh between 100-130 pounds. Despite being slightly smaller than the Mastiff, they are still a substantial breed.
Featured Images: pexels.com