Bullmastiff
Deciding to add a new dog to your family is a big step. Deciding which breed of dog to choose is a whole different question! With a little help and some diligent research, this isn’t as hard as you might think. Resources such as our Spot Pet Insurance dog breed guides are here to help you make an informed, responsible decision so everyone in your family (including your new furry friend) can thrive. Today, we’re putting the bullmastiff in the spotlight.
Breed Profile
Height
Males: 25-27
Females: 24-26
Inches
Weight
Males: 110-130
Females: 100-121
Pounds
Life Span
8-10
Years
Health
health
Hip Dysplasia
What is it?
Hip dysplasia is an inherited condition in which the hip joint and thigh bone don’t align properly, causing the two to grind together. This condition is prevalent in larger breeds with heavy bones. Since the bullmastiff develops so quickly and can be clumsy as a puppy, the breed is at a higher risk.
Predisposition to this condition is passed down genetically, so it’s important to determine whether your dog’s parents were cleared. Obesity can increase the risk of hip dysplasia, so monitoring your dog’s weight is a key preemptive measure.
Clinical signs:
Decreased physical activity
Difficulty laying down or standing up
Avoids use of hind legs
Avoids jumping, running, and climbing
Difficulty laying down or standing up
Stiffness
Lack of coordination
Reduced range of motion
Abnormal gait (swaying, hopping, or limping)
Reduced leg muscle mass
Shoulder swelling
Audible joint functions (clicking, popping, grating)
Treatment:
Limited exercise
Physical therapy
Weight management
Supplements
Joint fluid modifiers
Medication (anti-inflammatory)
Surgery: Double or triple pelvic osteotomy (DPO/TPO)
Surgery: Femoral head ostectomy (FHO)
Surgery: Total hip replacement (THR)
Other risks:
Delayed treatment incurs risks, including long-term damage
Depending on your dog’s age/condition, surgery could carry risk (better for younger dogs)
Eligible vet bill
$2,400
*Hypothetical reimbursement examples illustrate reimbursement of an eligible vet bill at the noted reimbursement rate, assuming the annual deductible had already been satisfied and the annual coverage limit has not yet been met. Annual deductible, co-insurance, benefit and coverage limits, and exclusions may apply. Eligibility may vary. Visit https://spotpet.com/spot-sample-policy.pdf for full terms. For Canada enrollments only, reimbursement rate is based on the pet's age.
health
Ectropion
What is it?
Ectropion is a genetic condition where your dog’s eyelids grow outward abnormally, sometimes called “rolling.” If your dog’s eyelid appears to be sagging, ectropion might be affecting them.
Ectropion can be congenital (inherited) or acquired (caused by another condition, such as injury or disease). Bullmastiffs are at risk for Congenital ectropion, as are both breeds they come from (Mastiffs and Bulldogs).
Clinical Signs:
Abnormality of the lower eyelid, including drooping, sagging, or rolling outward
Discharge of thick liquid from the eye
Redness of the eye
Rubbing of the eye
Tears, which can cause discoloration of fur beneath the eye
Treatment:
Eye drops
Ointments
Medical therapy
Antibiotics
Surgery
Other potential health conditions:
Elbow dysplasia
Hypothyroidism
Mast cell tumors
Entropion
Gastric dilatation volvulus (GDV)
Gastric torsion
Bloat
Eligible vet bill
$2,000
*Hypothetical reimbursement examples illustrate reimbursement of an eligible vet bill at the noted reimbursement rate, assuming the annual deductible had already been satisfied and the annual coverage limit has not yet been met. Annual deductible, co-insurance, benefit and coverage limits, and exclusions may apply. Eligibility may vary. Visit https://spotpet.com/spot-sample-policy.pdf for full terms. For Canada enrollments only, reimbursement rate is based on the pet's age.
Personality
How well do bullmastiffs get along with their owners?
Bullmastiffs are some of the more affectionate dogs among similar guard-dog breeds.
They are loyal to family and will protect their parents and siblings, even with their life if necessary. In some cases, they may even be a bit overprotective, especially towards children.
Are bullmastiffs aggressive towards strangers?
Bullmastiffs have strong protector and watchdog instincts. They are vigilant to potential threats, which in their mind naturally includes strangers.
With this breed, there is a possibility for aggression towards other animals or people. This can depend on the individuals in question and the nature of the meeting.
Proper early socialization training can help reduce risks, but you should always keep your bullmastiff leashed and make sure you are in control of your dog while in public. At home, a secure fence is a must to keep your bullmastiff from pursuing nearby threats and prevent anything from encroaching on its territory.
How well do bullmastiffs adapt to new situations?
Despite their size, this breed is fairly adaptable to different living situations.
While this breed will need standard exercise and some mental stimulation, they won't demand constant attention. This makes a bullmastiff a great fit for families who need to be out of the home for sizable chunks of the day due to work and school.
Thanks to their relatively low energy and mellow demeanor, small living spaces can work for this breed, although it may be tricky for you and your family.
Outdoor space and larger homes will likely be more ideal, although any outdoor space should be securely fenced. Bullmastiffs will try to claim new territory if they can so lock down the area they have access to.
When your bullmastiff is outside, be wary of heat. They are fairly tolerant of cold weather but not hot, so keep them indoors with AC during humid, hot weather.
Do bullmastiffs make good guard dogs?
Bullmastiffs were bred to be guard dogs and can fill the role superbly. They are always vigilant and aware of their surroundings. Note that they are not a particularly vocal breed, although this can vary from dog to dog.
Will a bullmastiff be a fun dog to have around?
Those looking for a strong, loyal family member will find much joy in a relationship with a bullmastiff. Those looking for a running partner or high-energy dog may be disappointed.
Bullmastiffs can be moderately playful and enjoy some exercise, but they aren’t going to run all day long. This can suit many families perfectly, especially those who are very busy.
Are bullmastiffs good with children?
Family relationships are never a worry for a bullmastiff, and children are no exception. You can expect affection and loyalty from your dog towards their human siblings.
The protective nature of this breed carries over to children, sometimes in excess. Don’t let them become overprotective, or they won’t let anyone near.
As with any dog, and especially such a large breed, never leave children unsupervised with your dog. Even though your dog likely has the best intentions, their size could easily injure a child. During play, the bullmastiff can be especially intense – even a full-grown man could easily be knocked over and hurt.
Ensure any children who interact with your bullmastiff know how to properly approach a dog, especially a large breed.
How are bullmastiffs with other dogs?
Watchdog instincts are strong in this breed, which can make interactions with unfamiliar dogs tense. Suspicion is natural, but it’s essential to train your dog not to react or become aggressive towards new dogs. This is most easily done from an early age.
Lifetime Care
Coat:
Bullmastiffs have a short coat that is typically smooth.
Coat colors include:
Fawn
Fawn Brindle
Red
Red Brindle
Red Fawn
Red Fawn Brindle
Dark Brindle
Markings can include:
Black markings
Black mask
Black mask, white markings
Fawn mask
Colors:
Hypoallergenic:
No
Grooming:
Daily brushing, occasional bath, regular nail trims
Training:
Easy to train.
Life Time Care Cost:
$19,280
Are bullmastiffs hypoallergenic?
No, bullmastiffs are not hypoallergenic.
How often do bullmastiffs have to be groomed?
As short-haired dogs, brushing once a week is generally recommended to keep their coat smooth and clean.
Monitoring your dog’s skin for excessive dryness or oiliness is also recommended, as this can be a problem for some bullmastiffs.
What is the lifetime care cost of a bullmastiff?
$19,280. Know more about the cost of a Bull Mastiff here.
How to be the best pet parent for a bullmastiff?
Knowledge is power when it comes to caring for your bullmastiff. Understanding your dog’s wants, needs, physical traits, and instincts prepares you to give them the care they need, where and when they need it.
Check out our Spot Pet Insurance Blog to continue your pet parent learning journey with even more helpful resources like this guide!
How much do bullmastiff puppies cost?
Adoption fee ( purebred puppy): $1,000-$3,000
Yearly care cost (first year): $5,000
Yearly care cost (following years): $2,040
Basic training and behavior etiquette for your bullmastiff
Bullmastiff instincts are strong, so they need equally strong training. Use the tips below to get things moving in the right direction.
Training at a young age is imperative for the bullmastiff breed. This includes obedience training and socialization. Doing so will help prevent stubbornness or reactivity towards strangers as your dog grows older.
Enact consistent and unflinching rules and routines. Making exceptions will only cause problems, so learn to resist those big, dark eyes.
Bullmastiffs are intelligent but usually strong-willed and independent.
Advanced training is possible once the proper foundations are in place, including sports like agility or work such as hunting.
What types of foods should bullmastiffs never eat?
As with any breed, there are certain foods a bullmastiff should never eat, as they can be toxic to dogs. In general, dog food is always a better option than human food.
Here are some of the most common foods that need to be avoided:
Exercising tips to keep your bullmastiff staying fit and healthy
Bullmastiffs need moderate daily exercise due to the breed’s moderate energy levels. At least half an hour of exercise every day is a minimum.
In general, bullmastiffs don’t enjoy overly long or intense periods of exercise. They’re not quite as active as similarly-sized breeds like the greyhound, great Dane, or golden retriever, so they don’t have the same exercise needs.
Bullmastiff life stages
Puppy: 18 - 20 months
Adult: 1 year - 6 years
Senior: 6 years - end of life
Conclusion
Bullmastiffs, like any breed, come with their own challenges and charming features. Consider carefully if the breed is right for you, and be prepared for a loyal, strong family dog if you add this gentle giant to your home!
Whatever breed you choose, Spot Pet Insurance would be happy to join your family too. Check out our FAQs to learn more, and get a quote today to see if we are the right fit for you!