Bullmastiff English Mastiff Mix: A Comprehensive Guide

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The Bullmastiff English Mastiff Mix is a large and powerful breed that combines the best qualities of its parent breeds. This mix is known for its gentle and affectionate nature, making it a great companion for families.

They typically weigh between 130-200 pounds and stand between 24-30 inches tall at the shoulder. This size, combined with their muscular build, makes them a formidable presence.

In terms of grooming, they require regular brushing to prevent matting and tangling of their short, dense coats. This breed is generally low maintenance in terms of grooming needs.

Their short coats also make them a relatively low-maintenance breed when it comes to shedding, but they still require regular exercise to stay happy and healthy.

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Physical Characteristics

The Bullmastiff English Mastiff mix is a majestic breed with a sturdy build and a short, dense coat. Their broad wrinkled head with a dark face mask gives them a unique and endearing appearance.

Credit: youtube.com, Top 7 Mastiff Cross Breeds | Mastiff mix breeds

Their ears are V-shaped, floppy and held close to the cheeks, making them look even more adorable. The Bullmastiff's ears are a great example of their overall physical characteristics.

Their eyes are dark and medium-sized, adding to their charming expression. I've seen many Bullmastiffs with big, brown eyes that melt the hearts of everyone around them.

Their noses are squished and black with large nostrils, which is a common feature in many breeds. The Bullmastiff's nose is just one of the many physical characteristics that make them so lovable.

Their coats come in a range of colors, including red, fawn or brindle, and may have a small white spot on their chests. Whether they're red, fawn, or brindle, the Bullmastiff's coat is always short and dense.

Here's a quick rundown of the Bullmastiff's physical characteristics:

  1. Ears: V-shaped, floppy and held close to the cheeks
  2. Eyes: Dark, medium-sized
  3. Nose: Squished and black with large nostrils
  4. Coat: Short and dense
  5. Coat Color: Red, fawn, brindle, or a combination
  6. Tail: Long and may be straight or curved

Temperament and Personality

Bullmastiff English Mastiff mixes are known to form deep bonds with their humans, making them faithful companions.

Credit: youtube.com, Pitbull Mastiff Mix: IMPOSING, Yet Protective!!! PRO'S & CON'S!!!

They're not much of a barker, having been bred to be silent watchdogs.

In fact, they're often described as ninjas of the dog world, sneaking around and surprising you with their presence.

Bullmastiffs are not aggressive, but can be wary of strangers, so early socialization is key.

They're intelligent and reliable, displaying both independence and a desire to please.

This mix is naturally confident, but also obedient to their owner's wishes.

However, they can be a bit clumsy around small children, cats, and smaller dogs, so keep an eye out when they're around.

Early training and socialization will help them become well-rounded adults, and regular interaction with visitors and other dogs will further enhance their social skills.

Proper socialization ensures that Bullmastiff puppies grow up to be well-behaved and socially adept companions.

They'll often wait at the back door for you to let them in, and will happily lean against your leg or try to fold themselves into your lap.

Care and Feeding

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A Bullmastiff English Mastiff mix is a gentle giant that requires regular care and attention. They have a short, easy-to-maintain coat that sheds year-round.

Brush your Bullmastiff's coat regularly to keep it healthy and shiny. This will also help reduce shedding.

Bullmastiffs are low-energy dogs that don't need a lot of exercise, but they do require regular training to stay well-behaved. Training should start early, preferably when they're still a manageable size as a puppy.

Enrolling in a puppy socialization class can help your Bullmastiff learn to interact with other dogs and people. This is essential for their socialization and can prevent aggression towards unfamiliar individuals.

Positive reinforcement is the best approach in training a Bullmastiff, as they respond well to encouragement but need a confident trainer. Consistency and patience are key to building a strong bond with your Bullmastiff.

To keep your Bullmastiff in good shape, measure their food and feed them twice a day rather than leaving food out all the time. This will help prevent overeating and maintain a healthy weight.

A fresh viewpoint: Bullmastiff Training

Credit: youtube.com, SIMPLE Raw Food Meal For Bullmastiff!

Bullmastiffs need regular nail trimming to prevent overgrowth, which can lead to discomfort and health issues. Trim their nails once or twice a month to keep them in good condition.

Dental hygiene is crucial for Bullmastiffs, as they can be prone to tartar buildup and periodontal disease. Brush their teeth at least two to three times a week to prevent these issues.

Regular grooming sessions can help you bond with your Bullmastiff and monitor their overall health. While brushing their coat or teeth, check for any signs of irritation, such as redness on the skin, mouth, feet, and ears.

Grooming

Grooming is a crucial part of Bullmastiff English Mastiff mix care, and it's essential to establish a regular routine to keep their coat clean and shiny.

Their short and dense coat requires minimal maintenance, but they do shed more frequently in spring and fall, so plan to brush your pup several times a week during these times.

Consider reading: English Mastiff Coat

Credit: youtube.com, Conquering Fear: Heartwarming Groom on a Powerful Bullmastiff Guard Dog

Use a bristle brush, grooming glove, or rubber curry brush to keep their coat in tip-top shape, and take the time to check their ears for debris and any redness or swelling.

Baths are not needed often, but when they are, use a waterless shampoo or grooming wipes for a touch-up, and clean around the eyes with a dampened cotton ball.

You'll need to brush their teeth daily to prevent expensive veterinary bills down the line, and get your pet used to brushing their teeth while they're young.

Trim their nails about once a month to prevent clicking on the floor, or take them to the groomer for a professional nail trim.

Regular grooming practices will help your Bullmastiff English Mastiff mix get used to being brushed and examined, making vet visits a breeze.

By starting grooming routines when they're puppies, you'll prepare them for easy veterinary exams and other handling as adults.

Training

Training a Bullmastiff English Mastiff mix requires patience and consistency. They're intelligent and quick learners, so they pick up basic commands and tricks right away.

Credit: youtube.com, English Mastiff - How to Train the Stay Command

Start training while your puppy is young to help them become a well-mannered family member. These dogs are powerfully built and may not always know their strength, so it's essential to teach them not to pull on the leash or jump on people.

"Place" is a great command to teach your Bullmastiff to keep them from bounding toward guests. To teach this command, encourage them to go to a specific spot, like their bed, by holding a treat over it and saying "place."

Firm, consistent training is crucial for these dogs. New pet parents may find attending a group training class helpful, or consider hiring a trainer who uses positive reinforcement methods.

If this caught your attention, see: Mastiff Dog Training

Health and Wellness

As a Bullmastiff English Mastiff mix owner, you're likely aware that these gentle giants are prone to certain health issues. Their average lifespan is 7 to 9 years.

Regular exercise is crucial to maintaining a healthy weight, which can help manage orthopedic issues like hip and elbow dysplasia. This condition can be managed with joint supplements and surgery in severe cases.

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Feeding your Bullmastiff two or three smaller meals throughout the day can help prevent Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV), also known as bloat. This life-threatening condition requires immediate medical attention.

Cancer is a common issue in Bullmastiffs, with lymphoma and mast cell tumors being the most common types. Lymphoma can be treated with chemotherapy, while mast cell tumors are often treated with radiation.

Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a heart disease that can be genetic, causing the heart to become enlarged and thin. This condition can be treated with daily medication.

Entropion, a condition where the eyelids roll inward, can be hereditary and requires veterinary attention to prevent corneal ulcers and blindness.

Here's a list of potential health issues to be aware of:

  • Hip and Elbow Dysplasia
  • Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV)
  • Cancer (Lymphoma and Mast Cell Tumors)
  • Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM)
  • Entropion

Regular check-ups and early treatment are crucial to maintaining the well-being of your Bullmastiff English Mastiff mix and ensuring they lead happy and healthy lives.

History and Background

The Bullmastiff English Mastiff mix has a rich history that dates back to the mid-19th century in England. English gamekeepers needed a large, quiet, and fearless dog to track down poachers, so they crossed the Bulldog with the Mastiff.

Credit: youtube.com, The History of The Bullmastiff Dog Breed

These early dogs were bred for utility and temperament, rather than looks, and were preferred in a dark brindle coat for night camouflage. They were known as the Gamekeeper's Night-Dog and lived alongside the gamekeeper's family.

The Bullmastiff was developed to be a working companion, with the speed to track down poachers and the strength to hold them. They were used to guard game at night and were valued for their ninja-like skills.

In the late 1920s, the Bullmastiff was used to guard the De Beers diamond mines in South Africa, demonstrating their effectiveness as a guard dog. They were officially recognized as a breed by the Kennel Club in England in 1924.

The American Kennel Club recognized the Bullmastiff in 1933, with the first registered AKC Bullmastiff being Fascination of Felons Fear in 1934. Today, the Bullmastiff holds the 40th position among the 157 breeds and varieties registered by the AKC.

Related reading: Bullmastiff Akc

Exercise and Activity

Close-Up Shot of Bullmastiff
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Exercise and activity are crucial for your Bullmastiff English Mastiff mix's physical and mental health. They require about 30 to 45 minutes of daily exercise, which can be a walk or playtime in a fenced-in yard.

A daily walk is a great way to prevent obesity and boredom in your dog. It's also a wonderful opportunity to strengthen your bond with your pet.

If it's really hot outside, plan your outdoor activities around the cooler parts of the day, as Bullmastiffs can be moderately sensitive to hot weather.

Highlights

They are low-energy dogs that are content with a couple of short walks each day.

Bullmastiffs are good with children, but their size can be a concern, especially with toddlers who may unintentionally get knocked over or stepped on.

They shed very little and require minimal grooming, making them a great choice for people who don't want to deal with excessive shedding.

Bullmastiffs are prone to heat exhaustion and heatstroke in hot or humid weather, so they need to live indoors with their owners.

Credit: youtube.com, So...You Want A Bullmastiff - What to expect!

These dogs are naturally protective of their home and family, but early and consistent training is essential to control unwanted aggression and stubbornness.

They are affectionate and enjoy spending time with their owners, often occupying space on the couch, feet, or lap.

Bullmastiffs are determined guard dogs and will protect their home and family if necessary, but their size and confidence act as a deterrent to intruders.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the lifespan of a double Mastiff?

The lifespan of a double Mastiff is typically 6-10 years, similar to other giant-breed dogs. Learn more about the health concerns that affect this breed's lifespan.

Which is bigger, an English Mastiff or a Bullmastiff?

The English Mastiff is generally larger than the Bullmastiff, with a more massive size and powerful build.

Are English Bullmastiffs good dogs?

English Bullmastiffs are gentle and devoted companions, making them a great choice for families and individuals looking for a loyal pet. Despite their large size, they are softies at heart and thrive on human interaction.

Eduardo Toy

Senior Writer

Eduardo Toy is a passionate writer with a knack for storytelling. With a focus on animal-related topics, Eduardo brings a unique voice to the table, drawing from personal experiences and in-depth research. His articles have been featured in various online publications, showcasing his expertise in areas such as dog breeds and pet care.

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