Bull Mastiff

The Bull Mastiff is a tough-looking and awe-inspiring guard dog, which has gained enviable popularity ever since its inception. Originally intended for guarding estate property and game against poachers, this dog still exhibits striking protectiveness, although Bull Mastiffs are not and have never been supposed to be vicious. Actually, the Bull Mastiff is a cross between the Mastiff and the Old English Bulldog. There were a few reasons why breeders chose these two breeds to create a good guard dog.

The breed was developed in the 1800s, in England. That was the time when many estate owners were faced with poaching and therefore had to find ways of dealing with the problem. In order to battle poachers, they needed animal companions, which would have enough strength, intelligence, good scenting abilities and determination to stand up against an armed intruder. Some people used the Bulldog for that purpose, but the dog proved too vicious for this kind of job, as he often slaughtered the enemy. The Mastiff was strong but lacked agility and speed. This prompted some breeders to create a hybrid that would have more speed and less ferocity.

The crossing resulted in the Bull Mastiff - a versatile guarding companion, which did the job very well. Once the dog picked up a poacher’s trail, he did not tear him apart but simply pinned him to the ground and waited until the owner arrived. With their formidable general appearance and determined glance, Bullmastiffs were apt to suppress a strong urge in a poacher to resist. Needless to say, they could use their strong clenching jaws if the enemy offered serious resistance.

The Bullmastiff of today is still a great guardian, who can use his natural protectiveness in a restrained and intelligent way. Bull Mastiffs are naturally alert with strangers, but they never attack without a serious provocation. In forming attitude toward other people, these dogs tend to rely on their owners’ opinions. If the owner accepts a newcomer, the dog will not show any sign of suspiciousness toward this person. If the owner shows a strong dismay at the appearance of some person, the dog will show the same feeling immediately.

Bull Mastiffs are moderately large dogs, measuring 24-27 inches high at the withers and weighing 110-150 lbs. Their short and glossy coat comes in various shades of fawn, red r brindle, with or without a small white marking on the chest. The muzzle is black, and there are characteristic black markings around the eyes, which add a little bit of charm to the dog’s countenance, making it look a little less intimidating. The Bull Mastiff has a life span of 8-10 years.