Large dogs are strong, beautiful and always attract attention. Their appearance is sometimes threatening and ferocious. Meanwhile, a very kind and affectionate character is often hidden behind him. That is what bullmastiff is. Characterization of the breed has not been conducted for a long time in terms of fighting qualities. A smart and good-natured dog will become a true friend and reliable companion, as well as a sensitive guard. Bullmastiffs have extraordinary charm and inner strength. For a long time they were famous for their fierce disposition, now they are reliable and calm, despite impressive growth and weight.
From the history of the breed
The first mention of bullmastiff dates back to the late 18th century. They talk about an interesting cross between a bulldog and a mastiff. However, they started talking seriously about the standard only at the beginning of the last century. In 1924, the English club of dog breeding recognized the breed as full and unique. His example was followed by an American organization in 1933. Two years later, an official standard was approved, which has since been revised several times. Bullmastiff (description, photo further in the text) was created as a night watchman to help rangers to fight poachers. They wanted a dog that combined the stubbornness and grip of a bulldog, the watchdog characteristics of a mastiff and the restlessness and perseverance of the hounds. This is exactly what the bullmastiff ultimately turned out to be - decisive, quick, obedient, temperamental, but silent in battle. Now they remind us of the good-natured giants, whose appearance is quite severe. However, his treatment must be skillful, as the fighting nature is hidden deep in the genes.
Standard: dimensions, general view
A powerful and harmonious physique, but not bulky, fit and talking about great physical endurance and strength - this is the real bullmastiff. The characteristics of the breed and the photos presented in the article may vary slightly, since at the moment the requirements for the standard in the USA and Great Britain are also not the same. Male growth is determined in the range from 63.5 to 68.5 cm, weight is 50-59 kg, and females, respectively, 61-66 cm and 41-50 kg. Color is very variable: shades of fawn or red, brindle, but always clean and bright. A small asterisk or spot of white on the chest is undesirable, but acceptable. The presence of other marks on the body is considered a vice. There must be a dark “mask” on the face, which brightens to the eyes and has blurry contours. The claws are usually dark. The coat is short, hard to the touch, tight-fitting to the body.
Head shape and standard
A healthy bullmastiff, the characteristic of the breed, the photo of which is presented in the article, certainly resembles a mastiff, full of calm and dignity, and a small bulldog in the characteristic features of the structure of the skull. The head of thoroughbred dogs is large, wide, massive and deep. The cranial part is quite voluminous and can look square on all sides. The cheeks are muscular, a pronounced transition from the forehead to a short but proportional muzzle. In profile, it is blunt due to the fleshy upper lip, forming a right angle with the nose. Nose with open nostrils, slightly flattened, wide, not upturned and not pointed. Drums do not hang at all or hang slightly, very rarely protrude beyond the lower border of the jaw. An even bite is considered ideal, a small snack is acceptable, but not desirable. Hazelnut eyes or dark. When a bullmastiff is interested or concentrated in something, his head is covered with numerous folds and wrinkles.
Paws and tail
In general, bullmastiff (breed characteristics, owner reviews hereinafter) has a squat stocky type of build. His paws are powerful and straight. The lower part is voluminous, rounded, the pads are strong, the nails are dark. Loose paws are considered a violation of the standard, a vice.
The tail is set high, it is thick at the base, and gradually tapers towards the end. It reaches the hocks in length. The dog holds it straight or slightly curved, but not like hounds. A defect is a tail down with a kink at the tip.
Bullmastiff: characteristic of the dog
The breed is characterized by a balanced and calm disposition, the dog is not prone to spontaneous and unreasonable aggression. The animal will be an infinitely loyal friend to all family members, gets along very well with children, treats acquaintances and friends exactly, sometimes wary. He does not like familiarity with his person, especially from outsiders. A serious and awesome look is only the first impression, in fact the bullmastiff is kind and affectionate. It gets along well not only with young children, but also with other pets, including cats, especially if they grow up together.
If you are looking for a formidable guard and a universal favorite, then it is Bullmastiff that is better than many others. The breed characteristics are positive, but do not forget about the upbringing of the dog, respectful attitude to it. He is very smart, quite easily amenable to training from a young age, understanding, fussy. It barks only in exceptional cases, when it warns of its presence or with the aim of threatening, when the growl is not working, and is silent for the rest of the time.
Place for dog
In the conditions of a city apartment, a bullmastiff is still more difficult to maintain than in a private house. This dog is large and loves space. He also likes to sleep, so the first thing he needs to do is arrange a place to sleep and rest. First, watch the pet: he will choose the corner from where all family members will be visible to him and will be under vigilant control, here he needs to be made a place. A soft litter is necessary, but it should be borne in mind that the dog has the peculiarity of spinning for a long time, spinning in place, settling down and picking up a blanket or pillows for itself. In this regard, it makes sense to think about litter filler.
Physical exercise
Long hikes, vigilant guards, heavy loads - that's what the bullmastiff was created for. The characteristic of the breed is such that it becomes clear: the dog needs physical exercise in sufficient quantity. Just go out and stand with him on the street will not work. An adult dog needs long walks lasting 2-3 hours to maintain good shape and mood. Keep in mind that it will be very difficult to keep such a heavyweight for a child or a thin woman on a leash. Choose not even clear glades, but mountainous or hilly terrain, with ravines, obstacles, use sticks, teach to swim.
Washing the dog too often with shampoos is not recommended. It is best to brush your coat regularly with a special brush.
Advantages and disadvantages
If we talk about the positive qualities of the dog, we can literally express them in a couple of words: affectionate, first-class watchman, kind and patient. Such is the formidable and serious-looking bullmastiff. Characterization of the breed in all sources begins with an indication of a calm disposition. The dog is very reasonable and serious, it executes commands implicitly, but with a little delay and deliberation. She loves her family unlimitedly and at any time, when a threat arises, she is ready to rush to the defense. Bullmastiff is patient, and this trait is especially pronounced when he communicates with children. He will endure their society for an infinitely long time, and if patience comes to an end, he will simply throw himself off and peacefully leave for a secluded and calm place.
It moves silently, you can hear formidable barking or roaring from it only in an emergency. When meeting with him, strangers usually have a formidable look. Security instincts in his blood.
Breed Reviews
According to the owners, this is a very smart and kind dog. Bullmastiff (breed characteristics are given above) is not a “sofa” favorite, although he likes to sleep. Sometimes he is lazy and spoiled, but he is always happy to jog in the fresh air, play actively. In this regard, many note that maintenance in a city apartment is undesirable for him, the dog needs space and a large yard for a normal and comfortable life. The owners of bullmastiffs emphasize their grateful and calm character, as well as the ability to snore and occupy a sofa in their absence, to bite home furniture and clothes at a young age. However, the latter most often indicates a lack of attention. Bullmastiffs can be terribly spoiled, but always charming and interesting.