Working group
Bullmastiff
The gamekeeper’s night dog — quiet, courageous and a gentle giant at home.
Bullmastiffs are large, powerful guardians bred to catch poachers silently. They are calm, affectionate and low-key indoors, but strong-willed, protective and short-lived, with drool and snoring to match.
- Height
- 24–27 in61–69 cm
- Weight
- 100–130 lb45–59 kg
- Life expectancy
- 7–9 years
- Size
- Giant
- Group
- Working
- Origin
- England
Coat: Short, dense coat. Colours: Fawn, Red, Brindle, With a black mask.
At a glance
Ratings describe typical dogs of the breed on a 1–5 scale. Individual dogs vary with lines, upbringing and training.
Temperament
Bullmastiffs are devoted, docile and loving with their families. They are quiet dogs that rarely bark without reason and enjoy relaxing with their people.
They are naturally protective and wary of strangers, and some are intolerant of other dogs, particularly of the same sex. They can be stubborn, so early socialisation and consistent training are important.
Living with a Bullmastiff
Exercise
Moderate: two daily walks and some play, around 30–60 minutes. Avoid hot weather and forced exercise while growing.
Grooming
Minimal: weekly brushing and nail trims. Keep drool cloths handy and clean facial wrinkles regularly.
Training
Willing but stubborn. Use short, positive sessions and start lead training while the puppy is still small.
Kids & other pets
Affectionate and usually gentle with their own children. Can be selective with other dogs; supervise introductions.
Time alone
Tolerates moderate alone time and is calm indoors, but needs secure fencing and a comfortable, cool space.
Home fit
Can manage in an apartment with committed daily exercise; a house with outdoor space is easier.
Is a Bullmastiff right for you?
Take the Breed Fit quiz to see how a Bullmastiff matches your home, schedule and tolerance for shedding, barking and exercise — or find out which breed matches your personality with Dogsona.
Health
With good breeding and care, a Bullmastiff typically lives 7–9 years. These are the conditions most associated with the breed — not a prediction for any individual dog.
Hip and elbow dysplasia
Screened parents and controlled puppy growth reduce the risk.
Cancer
Lymphoma and other cancers are common causes of death in the breed.
Gastric dilatation-volvulus (bloat)
A deep-chested giant breed at elevated risk.
Progressive retinal atrophy
A dominant inherited form occurs; a DNA test is available.
Entropion
Inward-rolling eyelids are common and may need surgery.
Ask a breeder for
- Hip and elbow evaluation
- Cardiac examination
- Eye examination
- DNA test for dominant PRA
Sources: OFA CHIC breed requirements: Bullmastiff; American Bullmastiff Association. This is general information, not veterinary advice — talk to your vet about your own dog.
Cost to own
After the first year, expect roughly $2,000–$4,000 a year for food, routine vet care, preventives, insurance and supplies (US estimate).
- Food, medication and anaesthesia are dosed by weight, so every vet visit costs more for a big dog.
- Pet insurance for a puppy typically runs $30–$60 a month; premiums rise with age and breed risk.
History
In the mid-1800s English gamekeepers needed a dog to help them catch poachers on large estates. By crossing Mastiffs and Bulldogs — roughly 60% Mastiff and 40% Bulldog — they created a fast, quiet dog that could pin an intruder without mauling him.
The breed was recognised by the Kennel Club in 1924 and by the AKC in 1933. De Beers used Bullmastiffs to guard its diamond mines in South Africa.
Did you know?
- Bullmastiffs were bred to catch poachers silently at night.
- Diamond company De Beers used Bullmastiffs as guard dogs at its mines.
- Rocky Balboa’s dog Butkus, in the first Rocky film, was Sylvester Stallone’s own Bullmastiff.
Library guides for Bullmastiff owners
Training
Heel and Loose-Leash Walking
A strong Bullmastiff needs loose-lead manners early.
Grooming
Ear Cleaning
Ear care matters for this coat and ear type.
Exercise & Play
Dog Walking
Getting daily walks right for a Bullmastiff.
Grooming
Nail Clipping
Every dog needs regular nail care.
New Dog Owners
How to find a reputable dog breeder
What to ask a Bullmastiff breeder about health screening.
New Dog Owners
The real cost of a puppy: what to budget before you bring one home
Budget for the first year and beyond.
Similar breeds
Frequently asked questions
- Are Bullmastiffs good family dogs?
- Yes, for owners who can handle a large, strong dog. They are affectionate and calm but protective.
- Do Bullmastiffs drool?
- Yes, quite a lot, especially after eating and drinking.
- Can a Bullmastiff live in an apartment?
- Surprisingly often, yes — they are calm indoors — but stairs and lifts need planning.