Bullmastiff: characterization of the breed of dogs and breeding

In appearance, the bullmastiff looks very serious, formidable and aggressive. Many people are afraid to approach these animals. In fact, in the family, such pets behave quite differently - they are incredibly loyal and friendly four-legged companions, characterized by a calm, balanced character.

The bullmastiff is a descendant of the ancient English mastiff breed. They behave rather modestly and discreetly. The first mention of them dates back to the XVIII century. However, in many sources it is indicated that the birth of these dogs fell on a later period - the 19th century. In those days, the rangers, who kept the game and were engaged in its protection, faced serious problems due to the highly developed poaching activity.

Bulldogs were not suitable for such purposes dimensions, and simple mastiffs lacked dexterity and speed. Because of this, people started breeding a new type of dog in which the positive qualities of both of these breeds would be combined. Attempts were made to cross them. The result was a perfectly suitable dog, which in ancient times was clicked "night dog guarding the game." Then the dark color of these individuals was considered optimal, since it was completely invisible at nightfall. Due to the improved characteristics of the breed rapidly gained great popularity and wide distribution. These pets were often used in landowners' farms. There they served as reliable and vigilant guards.

Many people literally fell in love with dogs that have a light fur and a contrasting dark “mask” on the face. However, the breeders decided that crossing two breeds is not enough. As a result, they set out to teach a completely new, purebred breed, for which bulldog qualities (60%) and characteristic features of mastiffs (40%) would be characteristic. As a result of the breeding work, new dogs — bullmastiffs — were born. The English club recognized these interesting representatives of the new breed in 1924. The American Kennel Club officially accepted the bullmastiff only in 1933.

The Bullmastiff is a great protector, friend and guard. Despite the rather severe and brutal appearance, these pets are very popular and delight many breeders, because they have many positive traits. If you plan to buy a puppy of this breed, then you should familiarize yourself with its standards.

• The weight of an adult bullmastiff dog in most cases ranges from 50 to 60 kg. Bitches are slightly smaller and more compact - their weight reaches 45–54 kg.
• Keep in mind that bullmastiffs are rather large dogs. At the withers, the growth of an adult purebred male is usually 63–69 cm, and that of a female is 61–66 cm.
• Regardless of what color the main woolen coat has on the body of an animal, a black mask will take place on its muzzle. The eyes have an expressive edging, the ears also have a dark color.In accordance with the standard, the presence of a large white spot in the chest area is permissible. Most often, bullmastiffs are red, fawn or bright brindle color. Slightly less often it is possible to meet marble individuals. Genetically impossible blue color coat. If the puppy has such a color, it will mean that he is a half-breed.
• One of the most significant shortcomings of bullmastiffs is the term of life. Health in this breed is not the best, immunity can not be called quite strong, which ultimately leads to a short life expectancy. On average, the bullmastiff lives 7–8 years.
• Most dogs of this breed can boast of well-developed intelligence and good mental abilities. They quite quickly understand and assimilate the new teams, perfectly understand the intonations of the hosts and feel their mood.
• Security and watchdog potential of the bullmastiff is not very developed. These dogs are excellent defenders of their owners from various threats, but only attack in exceptional cases. Usually they just stand between the host and the enemy.

These dogs have the following characteristics of appearance in accordance with the standard:

• the head of the bullmastiff is square, the skull has a large width, and the muzzle itself is rather short and pronounced skin folds;
• eyes are set widely, the iris usually has a characteristic nut or dark shade;
• the nose of the bullmastiff is quite wide by nature;
• the ears are V-shaped, small in size, set high, their color is dark;
• a characteristic feature of the bullmastiff is large and strong teeth, they have a regular bite, if the latter is not too pronounced, then this feature is not classified as defects;
• the back of these dogs is short and has a straight structure;
• the limbs of purebred individuals are strong and powerful and with well-developed muscles; the toes on the paws have a rounded structure, the pads are distinguished by a high density, and the claws are colored dark;
• the tail of the bullmastiff tapers from base to tip;
• The coat is very short, characterized by a dense structure.

The defects of representatives of this breed include the following characteristics:

• elongated and soft to the touch coat;
• folds present in the lug area;
• pointed nose shape;
• snub;
• light shade of eyes.

It is not enough to know only the external characteristics of such dogs in order to clearly determine the feasibility of their purchase. It is much more important to be aware of the character and behavior of the bullmastiff. The appearance of representatives of this breed can cause a person to thrill and even fear. However, most of the owners of these pets speak of them as great friendly good people. The bullmastiff is affectionate and faithful by nature. On strangers this breed catches fear and horror solely by its appearance.

When this breed was just formed, the dogs had the reputation of truly ferocious and tough animals with not the simplest temper. However, further breeding work allowed us to reduce these characteristics to the maximum, deterring many people. Currently, Bullmastiff is actively used to protect bars, banks, offices, as well as private property.

About these dogs leave a lot of different reviews. Their lion’s share suggests that the bullmastiff copes with the duty of being a loyal and friendly member of the family. Since these pets by nature have a calm disposition and truly angelic patience, they can seamlessly get along not only with one person. Often, these good healthy people are given birth in families with children.

The dogs of this world-famous breed always adapt to the life mode and lifestyle of their masters. They can easily accompany their people during light morning runs, cycling and other similar activities. If the owner is not so active and energetic, then here the bullmastiff will feel “at ease”. If you adore sitting for a long time with a book or watching TV, then this dog will not mind spending time with you in this mode.

Bullmastiff gets along well with children. It should be noted that the impressive dimensions of these dogs in this they do not interfere. Typically, these pets try to behave to the maximum neat and delicate when they spend time with younger family members. They fit the role of a big and gentle nanny. In addition, the Bullmastiff is the perfect partner for games.

For the bullmastiff, children unwittingly become objects under its protection. There are cases when dogs of this breed prevent their parents from punishing their guilty offspring. True, such events usually occur without the manifestation of excessive malice and aggression by the bullmastiff. The dog will simply block your way before the guilty child.

Despite the fact that the ancestors of the Bullmastiff had fighting habits and temper, these smart healthy people are not. Among the representatives of this famous breed, you can meet especially phlegmatic individuals or real sanguines, differing in the most balanced character traits. The intelligence level of the bullmastiff is very good. They are smart and smart, quickly understand everything and grasp "on the fly." Usually the bullmastiff does not do anything "spur of the moment." He will always pre-assess the situation.

Purebred bullmastiffs have both positive and negative qualities. And those and others must be borne in mind if a person plans to acquire such a pet. The following advantages are characteristic of dogs of this breed:

• the bullmastiff is an incredibly loyal and faithful dog; they love their master and his family immensely;
• the nature of these pets is balanced and calm; surprises in their behavior are usually not observed, which is why bullmastiffs often trust children;
• the intelligence level of such dogs pleases their owners, thoughtful and conscious actions of the bullmastiff;
• these dogs are easy to train; they quickly master new teams and immediately understand what their master expects of them;
• bulmastif cannot be called too demanding to care; The coat of these pets does not need much attention - it is easy and simple to care for it, which pleases many breeders;
• the patience of a purebred bullmastiff can only be envied; These dogs are incredibly tolerant, so they can be left without fear in the company of young children who love to fool around.

Yes, the advantages of animals of this breed are indisputable. However, it was not without its minuses, namely:

• a strong salivation is characteristic of the bullmastiff; if the animal is kept in the conditions of a city apartment, then soon the furniture and clothing will be soiled there it must be said that the drooling of such dogs is not so easy to rub off;
• these pets often snore loudly in their sleep, at night the noise from them can interfere with the owners' sleep;
• bullmastiffs are rather stubborn and lazy;
• representatives of this breed tend to demonstrate their leadership;
• unfortunately, the life expectancy of these animals is very small, this factor is recognized as one of the main disadvantages of the bullmastiff;
• Males of this breed are hostile towards other dogs of the same sex.

If you have weighed all the pros and cons of the bullmastiff and decided to have such a four-legged friend, then you should know how to choose the right puppy of this breed.

• Male bullmastiff have a more textured appearance than bitch. However, their character is more dominant. In addition, dogs of this breed are more susceptible to allergic reactions, which can eventually lead to dermatitis. Consider these features when choosing a puppy.
• Girls differ not too expressive exterior, but they are more willing to make contact. They are even more loyal to children and more likely to learn. Such individuals are allowed to buy in pairs. About males this can not be said.
• Puppies of this breed are usually massive and well-fed. A healthy baby aged two months will weigh at least 9-10 kg. If the puppy is 3 months old, then its weight should be from 17 kg. If the puppy you like has a very small body mass, it will mean that he was not provided with proper care. Most likely, the baby suffers from certain diseases.
• If you buy a pet for future participation in exhibitions and various competitions, it is better to take it at the age of 7-8 months. It was at this time that all of its characteristic features become clearer and more visible. If you are looking for a faithful companion or reliable guard for yourself, then you should not waste time. You can buy a puppy, who is from 1 to 3 months. This age is considered optimal in this case.
• It is necessary to check whether tests were carried out in relation to the producers of litter for various genetic diseases (especially for dysplasia). It will be necessary to clarify how things are with food allergic reactions in a bitch and a dog. Very often, small bullmastiffs inherit allergies from their parents.
• Be sure to inspect all puppies from litter, if the breeder gives this opportunity. Thus, you will be able to make a comparison of animals and in the end make a choice in favor of the cleverest and most active kid.
• It is necessary to assess the uniformity of the litter, picking up "his" puppy. An absolutely healthy breeding bitch will not have too small or too large puppies.
• Without fail, carefully probe the tail of your puppy. Very often, small bullmastiffs at the tip of the tail have characteristic wrinkles that unscrupulous and cunning breeders skillfully hide by referring to the operational method. When a baby with such a problem becomes adult and mature, his tail will be shorter than that of his fellows. As a result, such a nuance will not allow the animal to get to the exhibition.
• Carefully look into the mouth of a small bullmastiff. If the milk incisors are larger than the permissible dental formula, then this does not apply to vices. It will be worse if they will be less.
• In the purebred small bullmastiff, a P-like set of front paws will take place. In puppies whose age is 2 months, the eyes always have a dark blue or brown shade of the iris. There are no blue eyes in this breed.
• If you pick up a dog for housing maintenance, then you should take a closer look at the charming doggies that have a characteristic brindle color. These individuals have almost no undercoat, so they shed at a minimum. Puppies fawn and brown color undercoat are, albeit thin. They tolerate low temperatures much better. However, the wool from them remains many times more.

Bullmastiffs can not boast of unsurpassed protective qualities. These pets are more suitable for the protection of all family members. If you use the bullmastiff for its main purpose, then he will perfectly cope with his duties. Good news for owners of city apartments: in such conditions the bullmastiff can live without any problems, despite its impressive dimensions, and in such an environment, the pet will not disturb anyone. Dogs of this breed do not have the habit of constantly confused at the feet of the owners.

Do not forget that the dogs of this breed have a very short undercoat, so you can keep them outside only if you build a high-quality insulated booth or a warmed aviary. In other conditions, the animal will be extremely uncomfortable. One of the main advantages of the bullmastiff is that They bark extremely rarely, so they do not create any interference for their neighbors. This pet as a whole does not cause serious problems, if properly educate him and teach everything necessary. True, to prevent the owners may be increased salivation of these animals. All dogs of this type can be traced to such a feature, and the bullmastiff does not differ by the greatest abundance of saliva.

The classic menu of large dogs, such as the bullmastiff, is made up of natural food. All foods should be distinguished by a high content of essential protein and mineral supplements. The rate of food per day should be 2 kg for a dog weighing 50 kg. The diet of these dogs must contain meat. For the bullmastiff it is recommended to choose only spiny, but not very fatty meat, in which there is a large number of cartilage. Such products are able to saturate the dog's body with the whole complex of necessary nutrients, including collagen.

Let the growth and development of bullmastiffs on finished industrial feed. It is recommended to give purebred pets only premium and super-premium feed options. Dry options often have to be made more tasty by adding wet ingredients. When choosing a ready-made feed for your pet, you should pay due attention to its composition and manufacturer. Such food should not contain harmful chemicals, preservatives of unknown origin and various flavor enhancers.

Buy for Bulmastif ready food from reputable manufacturers. Little-known and cheap products are unlikely to benefit the animal, but the harm can seriously. In addition, it is not recommended to feed such animals with low-cost economy class feeds, which are sold in any store and supermarket. Such food is particularly widely advertised and has bright, eye-catching packaging.

Dogs of the described breed need proper care.

• Although the bullmastiff coat is very small, it will still need to be combed twice a week. This will be quite enough to keep the animal in a beautiful and clean state.
• We should not forget about bathing these dogs. Refer to the bath procedures should be as needed. During these activities, the folds on the body of the animal should be thoroughly washed. Having finished bathing, the bullmastiff must be wiped dry.For washing you should use only specialized shampoo. Simple formulations for humans will not do. It is permissible to use special dry shampoos for dogs.
• Weekly inspect the ears of your pet. Cotton swabs for cleansing is better not to use. Preventive cleaning is recommended using special lotions that are sold in many veterinary pharmacies. If you notice irritation or redness on the pet's ears, as well as an unpleasant smell, you should immediately visit a veterinarian.
• Clean your pet's teeth. This should be done either with a special brush or with a fingertip. These procedures should be resorted to at least once a week. If you regularly brush your dog's teeth, she will be able to avoid problems with tartar and unpleasant odor from the mouth.
• Domestic dogs need to trim their claws from time to time. The fact that it is necessary to refer to this procedure should be indicated by a characteristic clatter when the animal is walking around the house.
• One of the highlights of taking care of the bullmastiff is regular walks. Exercise should be, but not too serious. Absolutely no training, lazy pets quickly gain weight and can suffer from obesity.

A bullmastiff, like a dog of any other breed, requires proper upbringing and training. Without this, the pet will be disobedient and spoil the impression of an uncontrollable behavior. It should be borne in mind that these dogs are not suitable for weak and insecure people, as they are rather capricious and very stubborn animals. Only a real leader with patience and free time can cope with them.

To train and educate the bullmastiff is allowed only in a relaxed atmosphere. But the owner must be quite demanding and persistent. Dogs of this breed often resort to various tricks and methods of manipulation to take the lead. It should be borne in mind that the bullmastiff is far from being the dog that will suit a novice and inexperienced breeder. Such animals need constant attention from the owner, and the latter should have pronounced leadership qualities. The process of learning and socialization in bullmastiffs is delayed for a lifetime. These pets are somewhat similar to teenagers: they are always in search of something new, very often ignoring the rules and norms of behavior.

It is necessary to adhere to simple tips.

• When the weather is hot, bullmastiffs very often refuse to eat. Chasing them with a bowl filled with food makes no sense. Better give your pet the right amount of non-fat kefir of the first freshness. Instead of kefir, suitable water or ryazhenka. So the animal is easier to survive the heat.
• Walking bullmastiff can only be in a muzzle. It is advisable to keep a pet on a leash. Despite constant control, the pet at any moment can behave as no one expects from it. Without certain security measures, such events can have dire consequences.
• Keep track of your pet's health. At the slightest hint of a disease, you should immediately go to the veterinarian. Do not wait and do not expect the pet to recover on its own.
• It is necessary to comb out a bullmastiff as carefully as possible. To do this, it is recommended to use special brushes that are sold in many pet stores.
• All food that is prohibited for consumption by bullmastiff is better kept out of the reach of the dog.Clean harmful delicacies away so that the pet could not reach them.
• The bullmastiff may show serious aggression towards other animals living with it on the same territory (and not only), if it is not properly and timely socialized.
• Despite the fact that bullmastiffs are very kind to children, it is better not to leave them alone, of course. The dog may accidentally cause damage to the child due to its impressive dimensions. Parents should keep the situation under control in all cases.
• Bullmastiff prone to overheating and getting heat stroke. If the weather is hot in the yard, then it is better not to take the pet outside the house.
• It is necessary to take into account the fact that dogs of this breed have a characteristic low pain threshold. Very often, this feature causes the complexity of the early detection of the disease of these animals.
• Raising a bullmastiff, you should not break into a cry or resort to physical punishment. The dog will take this attitude negatively. As a result, the pet will lose confidence in the owner, will not perceive him as the "leader of the pack."

Characteristics of the breed Bullmastiff in the next video.