Understanding Bullmastiff Health Issues and Care

Bullmastiffs are a large and powerful breed, but like all dogs, they can be prone to certain health issues. Hip dysplasia is a common problem in Bullmastiffs, with 30% of the breed affected.

Their size and build can also make them more susceptible to joint problems. This is due to their large joints and bones, which can put a lot of strain on their muscles and tendons. Bullmastiffs are also at risk for eye problems, with 25% of the breed affected by eye disorders such as entropion and ectropion.

Consider reading: Dog Health Issues by Breed

Bullmastiffs are generally healthy dogs, but they can be prone to certain health issues.

Bullmastiffs typically live for 7-9 years, but their lifespan can be cut short due to poor breeding.

Some common health issues that can affect Bullmastiffs include heart disease, eye issues, elbow dysplasia, and hip dysplasia.

Regular health testing before choosing a puppy from a breeder can help identify potential problems and reduce the risk of inherited health issues.

Bullmastiffs are also at risk for various severe diseases, including lymphoma, dilated cardiomyopathy, and bloat.

Cancer, particularly lymphoma, is a leading cause of death in Bullmastiffs.

Here are some common health issues that can affect Bullmastiffs:

Bullmastiffs are prone to several bone and joint issues that can cause pain and discomfort. Eosinophilic panosteitis, also known as pano, is a painful inflammation of the long bones in the legs that can start as early as six to ten months of age.

Growing too quickly can lead to osteochondritis dissecans, or OCD, where the cartilage in the joints doesn't attach to the bone properly. This can be prevented by sticking to a recommended growth rate of no more than four pounds per week and feeding a large-breed puppy diet.

Hip and elbow dysplasia are also common issues in Bullmastiffs, causing arthritis and stiffness in the joints. Symptoms include lameness, difficulty getting up from lying down, and a "bunny-hopping" gait when running.

Here are some common symptoms of hip dysplasia:

Early detection and treatment are key to managing these conditions, so it's essential to work closely with a veterinarian and reputable breeder to ensure your Bullmastiff receives proper care.

Cancer is a leading cause of death among dogs in their golden years, and Bullmastiffs are more prone to certain kinds of cancer starting at a younger age.

Many cancers are cured by surgically removing them, and some types are treatable with chemotherapy.

Early detection is critical, so we'll do periodic blood tests and look for lumps and bumps at each exam.

Mast cell tumors are a particularly nasty type of skin cancer found more often in Bullmastiffs, and the sooner they are surgically removed the better.

Hemangiosarcoma is a type of bleeding tumor that affects Bullmastiffs at greater than average incidence, often forming in the spleen or other organs.

Lymphoma or lymphosarcoma is a type of cancer that afflicts Bullmastiffs more than other breeds, making the body form abnormal lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell.

Lymphoma is a very treatable form of cancer, with an excellent success rate in dogs receiving chemotherapy, but treatment can be costly and is a lifelong commitment.

Bullmastiffs are prone to several bone problems that can cause pain and discomfort. Eosinophilic panosteitis, also known as pano or eo-pan, is a painful inflammation of the long bones in the legs that usually starts at around six to ten months of age and shifts from leg to leg.

This condition requires pain medication and may need rehabilitation exercises if your dog develops an abnormal gait to compensate for the sore leg(s). If your dog has pano, it's essential to stick to a recommended growth rate of no more than four pounds per week to prevent permanent damage.

Osteochondritis dissecans, or OCD, is a problem that occurs when Bullmastiff puppies are allowed to grow too quickly, causing the cartilage in their joints to not attach to the bone properly. This can lead to surgery being required to fix the problem.

Both hips and elbows are at risk for dysplasia, an inherited disease that causes the joints to develop improperly and results in arthritis. Stiffness in your Bullmastiff's elbows or hips may become a problem for him, especially as he matures.

Here are some common symptoms of hip dysplasia:

Elbow dysplasia is another inherited condition that can cause degenerative joint disease in the elbow. Pain is often detected when a veterinarian checks the range of motion in the elbow, and X-rays or advanced imaging are used to diagnose the condition.

A torn cranial cruciate ligament is a common injury in active dogs, including Bullmastiffs, that can be treated with surgical correction to stabilize the knee and prevent crippling arthritis.

Bloat and Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus is a serious condition that affects deep-chested breeds like Bullmastiffs. It's characterized by a sudden swelling of the abdomen due to gas buildup in the stomach.

If left untreated, bloat can lead to a life-threatening condition called Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV), where the stomach twists and cuts off blood circulation.

Dogs with bloat will often exhibit signs of discomfort, such as restlessness and whining. In severe cases, they may even collapse.

A veterinarian can diagnose bloat and GDV through a physical exam and abdominal x-rays.

To minimize the risk of bloat and GDV, it's essential to take preventative measures. Here are some tips to consider:

By following these tips, you can significantly reduce the risk of bloat and GDV in your Bullmastiff.

As a Bullmastiff owner, it's essential to be aware of the potential neurological and eye problems that can affect your furry friend. Bullmastiffs are prone to a condition called wobbler disease or wobbler syndrome, which causes a wobbly, drunken gait due to a narrowing of the vertebrae in the neck.

This can lead to unstable hind legs, stumbling, and even falling. Medications, neck braces, rehabilitation exercise programs, and surgery are treatment options available.

Entropion is a painful eye condition where the eyelid rolls inward, causing irritation and potentially leading to blindness. Surgical correction is usually successful if performed early.

Explore further: Dog Eye Diseases

Eye problems can have a significant impact on a Bullmastiff's quality of life. Bullmastiffs are especially at risk for entropion, a condition where the eyelid rolls inward, causing the eyelashes to rub against the cornea and leading to irritation and pain.

Entropion can be extremely painful and may cause blindness if left untreated. Surgical correction is usually successful if performed early. Bullmastiffs can also develop glaucoma, an extremely painful disease that rapidly leads to blindness if left untreated.

Glaucoma symptoms include squinting, watery eyes, bluing of the cornea, and redness in the whites of the eyes. Pain from glaucoma is rarely noticed by pet owners, but it can be severe. In advanced cases, the eye may look enlarged or swollen like it's bulging.

Cataracts are a common cause of blindness in older Bullmastiffs. They can be diagnosed by looking for cloudy lenses in the eyes. Many dogs adjust well to losing their vision and get along just fine.

Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) is an eye disease that can occur due to genetic mutations. It causes the retina to slowly degenerate, eventually leading to blindness. PRA can be diagnosed with an eye exam and usually develops in young to middle-aged Bullmastiffs.

Neurological Disease is a serious condition that can affect your Bullmastiff, causing a wobbly, drunken gait due to a narrowing of the vertebrae in the neck that pinches the spinal cord and associated nerves.

This condition, known as wobbler disease or wobbler syndrome, can lead to the dog not feeling its feet, making it unstable and prone to stumbling and falling.

The first signs of this condition are often unstable hind legs, stumbling, and sometimes falling, which can be alarming and distressing for dog owners.

Treatment options for wobbler disease include medications, neck braces, rehabilitation exercise programs, and surgery, which can help manage the symptoms and improve the dog's quality of life.

Bullmastiffs are prone to a life-threatening heart condition called dilated cardiomyopathy, or DCM, which can lead to a weakened heart that struggles to pump blood effectively.

This condition can cause a range of symptoms, including acting weak or tired, fainting or collapsing, breathing in a labored way, or coughing.

Regular check-ups with your veterinarian are crucial in detecting DCM early on, and they may recommend a yearly electrical heart screening (ECG) and/or an echocardiogram starting at age one.

If DCM is diagnosed, treatment may involve medication and dietary supplementation to help manage the condition.

In severe cases, DCM can be fatal, making it essential to work closely with your veterinarian to monitor your Bullmastiff's health.

Some signs of DCM include a rapid heart rate, coughing, difficulty breathing, lethargy, loss of appetite, collapse, weight loss, and even death.

A heart murmur can be the first sign of DCM, and a canine Cardiopet proBNP blood test can help measure heart function.

Here are some common symptoms of DCM:

Taking care of your Bullmastiff at home requires attention to their diet, exercise, and regular check-ups. Watch her diet and make sure she gets plenty of exercise to keep her happy and healthy.

Supervise your pet as you would a toddler, keeping doors closed and pick up after yourself to keep her out of trouble. Brush her coat as needed, at least weekly, and clean her ears weekly to prevent infections.

To prevent obesity, which can lead to joint problems and other health issues, keep her diet consistent and avoid giving her people food. Feed a high-quality diet appropriate for her age, and exercise her regularly but don't overdo it at first.

Here are some general guidelines for feeding a Bullmastiff:

Home Health Care is crucial to keeping your Bullmastiff happy and healthy. Regular care and attention can make a big difference in her life.

Watch her diet and make sure she gets plenty of exercise, as it's common sense for both humans and dogs. Brush her teeth regularly to prevent tartar build-up and infection.

Dental disease is a common chronic problem in pets, affecting 80% of all dogs by age two, and Bullmastiffs are more likely to have problems with their teeth. Brush her teeth at least twice a week to keep them perfect.

Brushing your dog's teeth daily will prevent periodontal disease, but if you can't brush daily, brushing at least twice a week is still beneficial. Clean her ears weekly, even as a puppy, to prevent infection.

On a similar theme: Common Health Issues with Rottweilers

Your Bullmastiff needs a consistent diet and regular exercise to stay healthy. Feed a high-quality diet appropriate for her age and avoid giving her people food.

Here's a quick rundown of the essential home health care tasks for your Bullmastiff:

Infections are a serious concern for Bullmastiffs, and they're more susceptible to bacterial and viral infections than some other breeds. These can include parvo, rabies, and distemper.

Preventing infections is possible through vaccination, which we will recommend based on the diseases we see in our area, her age, and other factors. Regular check-ups with your veterinarian will help ensure your Bullmastiff stays up-to-date on all necessary vaccinations.

Bullmastiffs are also more likely to experience dental disease, which can lead to infections of the gums and roots of the teeth. This can have serious consequences, including damaging the kidneys, liver, heart, and joints.

Obesity can be a significant health problem in Bullmastiffs, causing or worsening joint problems, metabolic and digestive disorders, back pain, and heart disease.

It's tempting to give your pal food when she looks at you with those soulful eyes, but "loving her to death" with leftover people food and doggie treats can actually harm her health.

Instead, give her a hug, brush her fur or teeth, play a game with her, or take her for a walk. She'll feel better, and so will you!

A consistent and nutritious diet is key to preventing obesity in Bullmastiffs. Feed a high-quality diet appropriate for her age, and avoid giving her people food.

Here's a quick rundown of what to do to prevent obesity in your Bullmastiff:

Parasites can invade your Bully's body, inside and out, and cause pain, discomfort, and even death.

Fleas, ticks, ear mites, hookworms, roundworms, heartworms, and whipworms are just a few examples of the many parasites that can infest your dog's skin and ears.

Drinking unclean water, walking on contaminated soil, or being bitten by an infected mosquito are all common ways for these parasites to get into your dog's system.

Some of these parasites can be transmitted to you or a family member and are a serious concern for everyone.

Regular testing for parasites is crucial to keep your canine friend healthy, and we'll recommend preventive medication as necessary.

Allergies can be a real challenge for our furry friends, especially Bullmastiffs who are prone to skin allergies, also known as atopy.

Their skin can get itchy due to allergies to pollen, mold, or dust, and this typically starts between the ages of one and three.

The affected areas are often the feet, belly, folds of the skin, and ears, which can lead to some pretty uncomfortable symptoms.

Licking the paws, rubbing the face, and frequent ear infections are common signs that your Bullmastiff might be dealing with allergies.

The good news is that there are many treatment options available to help manage this condition.

A well-balanced diet is essential for your Bullmastiff's overall health and happiness. Feed a high-quality diet appropriate for her age, and keep her diet consistent to avoid any digestive issues.

Bullmastiffs are prone to obesity, so it's crucial to monitor their food intake and avoid giving them people food or doggie treats. Instead, give them a hug, brush their fur or teeth, play a game with them, or take them for a walk.

To minimize the risk of bloat or GDV, feed your dog two or three meals a day instead of one, and put the food bowl on the floor rather than elevate it. If there are multiple dogs in the house, feed them separately to minimize stress.

A large-breed dog food is necessary for Bullmastiffs to ensure proper development during their prolonged growth. Puppies generally thrive with more meals in smaller portions throughout the day to keep up with their energy demands.

As adults, Bullmastiffs need around 30–60 minutes of exercise daily, but avoid high-impact or strenuous workouts. Walks, outdoor play in a fenced-in area, and indoor enrichment can be sufficient, safe ways to keep your dog at a healthy weight.

Here's a feeding guideline to keep in mind:

Remember to consult your veterinarian to determine the proper portion to feed your Bullmastiff, based on ideal body weight and life stage. Measure out the food for each meal to ensure that you are feeding the proper amount.

Spaying or neutering your Bullmastiff is one of the best things you can do for their health and well-being.

This surgery not only decreases the likelihood of certain types of cancers but also eliminates the possibility of your pet becoming pregnant or fathering unwanted puppies.

In females, spaying involves surgically removing the ovaries and usually the uterus, while in males, neutering involves surgically removing the testicles.

Spaying or neutering also gives your veterinarian a chance to identify and address other diseases your dog is likely to develop, such as hip problems or dental issues.

Routine blood testing prior to surgery helps identify and take precautions for common problems that increase anesthetic or surgical risk.

Your veterinarian will discuss the specific problems they will be looking for when the time arrives, so don't worry about a thing.

Bullmastiffs are generally healthy dogs, but they can be prone to certain health issues.

Their large size and rapid growth rate can lead to joint problems, such as hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia, which can cause arthritis and lameness.

Regular veterinary check-ups and a balanced diet can help prevent or manage these conditions.

Eosinophilic panosteitis, also known as "pano", is a painful inflammation of the long bones in the legs that can start as early as six months old.

Bullmastiffs are also at risk for eye problems, including entropion, where the eyelid rolls inward and causes irritation, and glaucoma, an extremely painful disease that can lead to blindness if left untreated.

Cataracts are a common cause of blindness in older Bullmastiffs, but many dogs adjust well to losing their vision and can still lead happy lives.

Grooming and hygiene are crucial aspects of Bullmastiff care. Regular brushing with a slicker brush and a bristle brush every 2 to 3 days will remove dead hair and dirt from their coat.

Seasonal shedding will require more frequent brushing, so be prepared to increase the schedule. Weekly ear wipedowns are essential to prevent infections.

Bullmastiffs need baths every couple of months, but if they get dirty outside, you can bathe them more often. Brushing their teeth at least 2 to 3 times weekly will help prevent decay and periodontal disease.

Cleaning their ears with an ear cleaner every two to three weeks and after baths will help prevent infections.

Bullmastiffs don't need much skin care, but an occasional bath is necessary to keep them clean.

Their nails require frequent trims to prevent breaking or splitting.

A Bullmastiff's skin care needs are relatively simple, and a bath every now and then is enough to keep them looking and feeling their best.

The Bullmastiff's coat is surprisingly low-maintenance, requiring only a slicker brush and a bristle brush to remove dead hair and dirt.

Brushing every 2 to 3 days will keep their coat looking its best, and seasonal shedding will only require a more frequent schedule.

You can get away with not taking your Bullmastiff to a professional groomer, as their short fur isn't prone to matting.

Monthly brushing will also help reduce shedding, making life easier for both you and your Bullmastiff.