Bullmastiff vs Pitbull: A Comprehensive Comparison

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Close-Up Shot of Bullmastiff
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The Bullmastiff and Pitbull breeds have a lot in common, but they also have some key differences.

Bullmastiffs are known for their massive size, with adults weighing up to 130 pounds.

Pitbulls, on the other hand, are generally smaller, with adults weighing between 35-60 pounds.

Despite their size difference, both breeds are known for their loyalty and affection towards their families.

Origins

The Bullmastiff has a rich history that sets it apart from other breeds. It hails from England.

Developed in the 1800s, the Bullmastiff was created to serve a specific purpose. The breed was initially used by gamekeepers to protect their catch from poachers.

The Bullmastiff's ancestors include the English Mastiff and the now-extinct Old English Bulldog. These two breeds were combined to create the Bullmastiff.

Later, the Bullmastiff was imported to South Africa to guard diamond mines.

Physical Characteristics

The Bullmastiff and Pit Bull have some notable differences in terms of size. Bullmastiffs typically reach a height of between 25-27 inches, with females coming in slightly shorter at between 24-26 inches.

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The Pit Bull, on the other hand, is much more compact, with males measuring around 19 inches and females coming in at roughly 18 inches.

Bullmastiffs can weigh anywhere between 110-130lbs for males, with females sitting somewhere between 100-120lbs. In contrast, Pit Bulls are heavy for their size, with males and females clocking in at between 50-80lbs.

Both breeds have short coats, but the Bullmastiff's coat comes in three colors: fawn, red or brindle. The Pit Bull's coat, on the other hand, comes in a variety of colors and is often sleek and short.

The Bullmastiff's muscular build is evident in their large bones, while the Pit Bull packs more muscles per pound of body weight than any other breed.

Temperament and Personality

The Bullmastiff and Pitbull have distinct temperaments and personalities. The Bullmastiff is a gentle breed overall with a calm and affectionate nature, but can be very suspicious of strangers and intolerant of other animals.

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They are also independent thinkers with a high level of intelligence and confidence, making training a challenge. You'll need to be prepared to assert your authority and let them know who's boss.

On the other hand, the Pitbull is known for being loyal and affectionate, with a happy and patient nature. However, they can be strong-willed and stubborn, requiring an owner who can confidently assert their authority.

Here's a comparison of their temperament traits:

Overall, both breeds require a confident and assertive owner who can provide the necessary structure and training.

Personality and Temperament

The Bullmastiff and American Pit Bull Terrier are both known for their gentle and affectionate nature, making them great family dogs. They are also highly intelligent and confident, which can make them a bit challenging to train.

One of the key differences between the two breeds is their sensitivity level. Both the Bullmastiff and American Pit Bull Terrier are considered to be a little more sensitive than other dog breeds, but they handle it in different ways. The Bullmastiff tends to be more laid back and easy-going, while the American Pit Bull Terrier is more energetic and playful.

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In terms of affection level, the American Pit Bull Terrier is the clear winner. They are genuinely loyal, soft, and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers. The Bullmastiff, on the other hand, is average when it comes to affection level.

If you're looking for a breed that is social and loves to interact with people, the American Pit Bull Terrier is a great choice. They are a social breed that thrives on human interaction and attention. The Bullmastiff, while still social, has an average need for social interaction.

It's also worth noting that both breeds have a relatively low prey drive, which means they don't have a strong instinct to chase and catch small animals. However, they may still have some tendency to chase small animals, especially if they're not properly trained.

Here's a comparison of the two breeds in terms of their temperament and personality:

As you can see, both breeds share many similarities in terms of their temperament and personality. However, the American Pit Bull Terrier is more likely to be stubborn and clownish, while the Bullmastiff is more likely to be calm and docile.

Working Dog

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Working dogs are incredibly skilled and versatile, but some breeds are better suited for certain types of work than others. The Bullmastiff is generally not used as a service dog, which means they may not be the best fit for tasks like guiding the visually impaired or assisting people with disabilities.

The American Pit Bull Terrier, on the other hand, has a strong work ethic and can excel as a service dog with proper training, but they are not typically used for this purpose. This breed can be trained for detection work, however, and can even excel at it with the right training.

Here's a brief comparison of the two breeds in terms of their working dog potential:

It's worth noting that both breeds are not typically used as search and rescue dogs, and they may not be the best fit for tasks that require a strong instinct for search and rescue work.

A different take: Bullmastiff Rescue Texas

Trainability and Intelligence

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Both the Bullmastiff and the Pit Bull are known for being highly intelligent, but they can also be stubborn at times. Bullmastiffs are more independent thinkers, requiring firm consistency to keep them on track. Pit Bulls, on the other hand, are eager to learn and tend to pick up things quickly with upbeat training.

Both breeds need a lot of positive reinforcement and should be praised with the best dog treats. Admonishing them for bad behavior can lead to them becoming unresponsive.

Here's a comparison of the trainability and intelligence of Bullmastiffs and Pit Bulls:

Bullmastiffs are one of the best watchdogs, while Pit Bulls are average watchdogs. Bullmastiffs are also extremely protective guard dogs, while Pit Bulls are average defenders. This makes Bullmastiffs a great choice for those looking for a loyal companion and a protective watchdog.

Exercise and Activity

The Bullmastiff and Pitbull are both wonderful breeds, but they have some key differences when it comes to exercise and activity. The Bullmastiff is not naturally a high-energy dog and requires less exercise than the Pitbull.

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In fact, the Bullmastiff needs only 30-45 minutes of walking a day, which is a relatively short period compared to the Pitbull's recommended two hours of exercise per day. This is because the Bullmastiff is prone to laziness and can easily become overweight if not encouraged to exercise regularly.

On the other hand, the Pitbull is a high-energy dog that requires regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. They need to be taken out for a run or a long walk to burn off their excess energy.

Here's a quick comparison of the exercise needs of the two breeds:

Overall, the Bullmastiff requires less exercise than the Pitbull, but both breeds need regular physical activity to stay healthy and happy. With the right amount of exercise and attention, both breeds can thrive and make wonderful companions.

Grooming and Health

The Bullmastiff and Pit Bull are both relatively easy to groom, thanks to their short coats. Daily brushing is recommended to limit shedding.

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Both breeds need baths only every month or two, but be prepared to get their nails professionally trimmed to prevent overgrowth. The Bullmastiff, in particular, may need more frequent nail trims due to its lower activity level.

Here's a quick comparison of grooming needs for the Bullmastiff and Pit Bull:

Overall, both breeds are relatively low-maintenance when it comes to grooming. However, the Bullmastiff may require a bit more attention to its nails.

Weight Management

Weight management is a crucial aspect of your dog's overall health, and it's essential to understand their specific needs. A Bullmastiff, for instance, has a strong tendency to be overweight.

To prevent obesity, it's recommended to feed your Bullmastiff 3 to 4.5 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals. This will help maintain their weight and prevent excessive weight gain.

In contrast, an American Pit Bull Terrier has an average risk for obesity, requiring around 1.5 to 2.5 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals. This breed is also prone to weight gain if not monitored closely.

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The American Bulldog, however, has a low to average risk for obesity, requiring 3 to 5 cups of high-quality dog food daily, divided into two meals. This breed is generally less prone to weight gain compared to the Bullmastiff.

Here's a comparison of the weight gain potential of these breeds:

Regular exercise and monitoring of their food intake will help keep your dog's weight in check. By understanding their specific needs, you can take the necessary steps to ensure they live a happy and healthy life.

Dog Allergies and Grooming

When it comes to grooming, some breeds are easier to manage than others. The Bullmastiff and Pit Bull are both easy to groom, thanks to their short coats. They require daily brushing to limit shedding, but baths are only needed once a month or every two months.

Both breeds have moderate shedding levels, but regular brushing can help keep their fur looking fabulous. It's essential to trim their nails professionally, especially for the Bullmastiff, as their nails may not wear down as quickly due to their less active lifestyle.

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If you're looking for a low-maintenance breed, the American Pit Bull Terrier and American Bulldog are great options. They require minimal grooming and have moderate shedding levels. However, the Bullmastiff is a big drooler, so if you're not fond of slobber spots on your clothes, it might not be the best choice.

Here's a comparison of the breeds' grooming needs:

Keep in mind that regular grooming is essential for all breeds, regardless of their grooming level. Regular brushing, nail trimming, and baths can help keep your dog healthy and looking its best.

Ownership and Cost

The cost of owning a Bullmastiff or an American Pit Bull Terrier is a significant consideration for many potential owners. The price range for a Bullmastiff is $1200-$1500, making it a more expensive option compared to the American Pit Bull Terrier, which costs $500-$700.

If budget is a concern, the American Pit Bull Terrier is a more affordable option. However, it's worth noting that both breeds can make wonderful companions with proper care and attention.

If you're looking to bring one of these breeds home, you'll find that Bullmastiffs are quite easy to get, as they have very frequent availability. In contrast, American Pit Bull Terriers are a commonly available breed, but not as readily available as Bullmastiffs.

Price and Availability

Bullmastiff by Sea
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When thinking about the cost of owning a Bullmastiff, American Pit Bull Terrier, or other breeds, it's essential to consider the initial purchase price and availability.

The price of a Bullmastiff can range from $1200 to $1500, making it a significant investment. On the other hand, the American Pit Bull Terrier is more affordable, with a price tag of $500 to $700.

If you're having trouble finding a specific breed, availability is also something to consider. Bullmastiffs are relatively easy to get, with frequent availability. American Pit Bull Terriers are also commonly available, but not as easily accessible as Bullmastiffs.

Here's a breakdown of the prices and availability of the breeds mentioned:

In comparison to other breeds, the Bullmastiff and American Pit Bull Terrier are priced similarly, with the American Bulldog being the most affordable option at $500 to $600.

Reproducibility

Reproducibility is a crucial aspect of owning a dog, especially when considering the costs involved.

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Bullmastiffs, American Bulldogs, and American Pit Bull Terriers have a relatively long gestation period, lasting around 60-64 days. This means that breeding should be a careful and planned process to ensure the health and well-being of both mother and puppies.

More frequent breeding can be detrimental to the health of the dog, so it's essential to breed responsibly. Both Bullmastiffs and American Bulldogs should only be bred once a year, while American Pit Bull Terriers also follow the same breeding frequency.

Here's a quick comparison of the litter sizes for these breeds:

Keep in mind that these are average litter sizes, and actual numbers can vary depending on several factors.

Recognition and History

The Bullmastiff and Pitbull are two distinct breeds with different histories and recognition. The Bullmastiff has been recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) since 1934 as a Working breed.

The Bullmastiff is recognized by several organizations and kennel clubs, including the American Canine Registry, American Kennel Club, and Federation Cynologique Internationale (FCI). The FCI recognizes the Bullmastiff in the Pinscher and Schnauzer - Molossoid and Swiss Mountain and Cattledogs group, in the Molossian type section.

Credit: youtube.com, THE BULLMASTIFF - A QUICK LOOK AT THE HISTORY AND BREED STANDARD

The Pitbull, on the other hand, is not recognized by the AKC or FCI. However, it is recognized by several other organizations, including the American Canine Registry, Dog Registry of America Inc., and North American Purebred Registry, Inc.

Here's a comparison of the recognition of the Bullmastiff and Pitbull:

The Bullmastiff and Pitbull have different breed recognition, but both breeds have their own unique characteristics and histories.

Health and Lifespan

The Bullmastiff and Pitbull are both beloved breeds, but when it comes to their health and lifespan, there are some key differences to consider.

The Bullmastiff is considered a very healthy dog breed, with an average lifespan of 9 years. In contrast, the American Pit Bull Terrier has a slightly longer lifespan, averaging 12 years.

Both breeds can be prone to certain health issues, however. The Bullmastiff is susceptible to cancer, hypothyroidism, progressive retinal atrophy, heart problems, entropion, kidney issues, hemangiosarcoma, lymphosarcoma, and osteosarcoma. The American Pit Bull Terrier, on the other hand, is more likely to experience hip dysplasia, demodectic mange, and skin allergies.

Take a look at this: Lifespan Bullmastiff

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When it comes to veterinary visits, the American Pit Bull Terrier may require more frequent check-ups, with a recommendation for at least one visit per year, and possibly two.

Here's a comparison of the two breeds' health issues:

Overall, while both breeds have their unique health considerations, the American Pit Bull Terrier may require more frequent veterinary visits to stay healthy and happy.

Diet and Nutrition

When feeding your Bullmastiff or Pitbull, it's essential to consider their unique dietary needs. Bullmastiffs require 3 to 4.5 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.

A Pitbull's daily food intake is significantly lower, with a recommended 1.5 to 2.5 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.

Both breeds benefit from regular, balanced meals to maintain a healthy weight. However, the Bullmastiff has a strong tendency to be overweight, making it crucial to monitor their food intake.

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Here's a comparison of the average daily food consumption for Bullmastiffs and Pitbulls:

The American Bulldog, not mentioned in this comparison, has a low to average risk for obesity, with a daily food intake of 3 to 5 cups of high-quality dog food daily.

Bite Characteristics

When comparing the bite characteristics of Bullmastiffs and Pitbulls, it's essential to consider their bite force and potential for biting. Bullmastiffs have a bite force of between 200 and 400 PSI, which is considered ordinary.

The American Pit Bull Terrier, on the other hand, also falls within the same range, with a bite force of between 200 and 400 PSI. This means that both breeds have a similar level of bite force.

In terms of biting potential, the American Pit Bull Terrier has a higher chance of biting someone, with a biting potential of high 🔼, whereas the Bullmastiff has a low chance of biting, with a biting potential of low 🔽.

Intriguing read: Pitbull Dog Bite

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Here's a comparison of the biting potential of the two breeds:

Both breeds also have a tendency to nip, chew, or play-bite, but the American Pit Bull Terrier has a stronger tendency to do so, making it essential to socialize and train both breeds properly to prevent unwanted behavior.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the bite force of a Bullmastiff?

The bite force of a Bullmastiff is approximately 556 PSI, a powerful force that's typical of Mastiff breeds. This impressive strength is a key characteristic of these large and loyal dogs.

Edwin Grimes

Senior Assigning Editor

Edwin Grimes is an accomplished Assigning Editor with a passion for curating engaging content. With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the publishing industry, Edwin has established himself as a trusted expert in his field. Edwin's areas of expertise include canine diet and nutrition, where he has successfully overseen the development of numerous articles and series.

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