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BULLMASTIFF

Description: The Bullmastiff dog breed is not cumbersome, but it is still a very powerful and large dog. This dog has a large Broad head, with a broad muzzle that is the usual dark colour. It has large nostrils, and is wide nosed. The skin is loose around the face, adding character that looks soulful but alert. This breed has an undershot bite. They have medium sized eyes that are hazel in colour. Their ears are set high and wide apart in a V Shape that hang downwards. This adds an overall square shape to the dogs face. The dog’s height is 25 to 27 inches with the bitches measuring 24 to 26 inches. Their weight is between 95 to 130 pounds, depending on sex. Their tail is set high, is broad at the root and can be either straight or curved, reaching down to the hocks. This breed has a short, but straight back, showing the powerful build of their body. They have a dense, short and slightly rough coat. Colours are red, fawn and brindle this breed often comes with black markings on their head. This dog lives for about 10 years.

History: As the name suggests, the bullmastiff was created by crossing 40% Bulldogs with 60%. Mastiffs’. This was done in England and records go back as far as 1795. Three generations of Bullmastiff's were required to be registered as a pure breed. This dog was used to track down and hold poachers for the local games keepers. Although this dog appeared fierce and threatening, they were trained not to bite the intruders, this kept out the poachers as the fear of this breed of dog grew. In its history, it has been used for hunting, guarding, helped the army and police in their work, and as a watchdog in many countries around the world. Today, this breed can be a reliable family companion.

Temperament: The Bullmastiff dog breed is devoted to his family, but it is still important to remember, its strong instinct as a guard dog, it is docile and friendly, but unafraid if aggravated. Although this dog is unlikely to bite an intruder. This dog's instincts are to catch, knocking down and hold him there. This breed craves human leadership, is even tempered, loyal and calm being even good with children. It is to be remembered this breed, as a particularly powerful and muscular dog needs a firm master, who is consistent with all the rules that are set for this breed. High levels of obedience training, is seen as a must for this breed.

This dog needs to learn not to pull on the lead, and the master always goes first. Socialization is also important so that this dog, from a very young age is enabled to get along with other pets and other dogs. This dog is sensitive to your voice, and this needs to be assertive in style, but not harsh. This is not a dog for the meek owner as a dog can become wilful and possibly aggressive towards other dogs. You only need to be a good pack leader at all times.

Health issues: The Bullmastiff dog breed is prone to hip dysplasia, cancer, tumours, eyelid problems, PRA and boils on the lip and bloat which will need meals in small portions throughout the day.

Grooming: The Bullmastiff dog breed is easy to groom, due to short hair, brushing and combing is all that is required. This breed sheds little. Bath only when necessary. Care of the dogs paws is required due to the weight they carry.

Living conditions: The Bullmastiff dog breed will do fine in an apartment providing, they have been exercised, which covers both physically and mentally stimulation. A small garden will be fine for this breed.

Health issues: As a breed these dogs are generally healthy, with a lifespan of approx.15 years and sometimes more. They are, however, prone to spinal diseases, and stifle problems, caused by the length of their back in comparison to the shortness in their legs. They can be prone also to eye problems, infections of the ear, and premature loss of teeth. Care must be taken with their feeding as these dogs gain weight very easily, overfeeding can be very bad for them.

Grooming: A good daily brush, using a firm bristled brush or comb, is often adequate. The dogs are of a long-haired breed, but some owners like to have their hair trimmed shorter to make it more manageable. However, if you are showing your dog, trimming is probably best carried out at a salon, unless you are skilled and experienced enough to do this yourself. If you are not showing your pet, but have decided to keep the hair long, then the brushing process will take longer, and you may need to trim some of the hair yourself, or you may also take the dog to the salon as a special treat.

Living conditions: As a dog, that is reasonably active indoors they can survive without a yard, and enjoy a good play, which will burn off some of their excess energy. Walking is still very important though, as dogs enjoy going outside to see different things. As long as their exercise requirements are met, the breed is well suited to apartment life.