| Breed Purpose Originally Bullmastiffs were a combination of 40% English Bulldog and 60% English Mastiff. They were bred specifically to accompany gamekeepers on their rounds, being able to track well and having sufficient size and strength to tackle, overpower and hold a poacher. A product of this century, by 1924 the Mastiff-Bulldog cross had been stabilized and, as the Bullmastiff, the breed was officially recognized in Britain and was accepted for registration by the American Kennel Club in 1933 , where it earned a loyal but numerically small following. In addition to patrolling estates, the Bullmastiff has also been used as a police, guard and army dog. Breed Characteristics A Bullmastiff presents an aristocratic, attentive and intelligent look. He is distinguished from the English Mastiff by his smaller size and more compact face. They have been described as: intelligent, loyal, stubborn, laid back, family oriented, stoic, and even-tempered. Bullmastiffs rarely bark unless there is a reason. There is a minimal amount of slobbering associated with a Bullmastiff, usually after eating or drinking. They are a dog that requires consistent and fair training. Unique breed characteristics need to be taken into consideration. Though playful enough as a puppy, the Bullmastiff often takes a rather serious, sombre attitude toward training as he matures. He likes to work and concentrates hard on a new exercise for a given interval. However once he learns it, he will quickly become bored and lethargic if the exercise is not applied in a variety of practical and rewarding ways. The Bullmastiff seems to be very easy-going and as such tends to integrate well with most other dogs. But as with any breed, you should start socialization early. Puppy kindergarten type situations are definitely a must. As far as the Bullmastiff's relationship to other animals (other than dogs), size rather than aggressiveness is often more of an issue. Often Bullmastiffs don't realize their size can hurt a smaller dog, or cat, with rough-house play. In relationship to people, Bullmastiffs tend to be one family dogs. They bond extremely close with "their" people and can be suspicious of strangers. Early puppy interaction with lots of different people is key to overcoming potential problems due to this trait. Believe it or not Bullmastiffs can be quite cuddly and demonstrative. They must be integrated as a member of the family. I would say they are not very suitable for being an outdoor dog. Bullmastiffs are more tolerant of children than many other breeds. Their easy going nature and calmness, tend to make them able to tolerate the energy of younger kids. But again, due to their size, constant parental supervision is a must. They are a naturally protective dog. They have a suspicious nature in regards to strangers and "size" people up. Sufficient socialization is extremely important due to this fact. They also naturally "guard" their family members. Bullmastiffs are constantly attentive and curious about their surroundings and will be alarmed if any danger is perceived to their pack. Many people who see a Bullmastiff playing with children or other friendly person, cannot believe that this breed can be anything but friendly, however if the need arises the Bullmastiff can quickly take on a 180 degree change in personality and can change from a friendly clown into the most determined guard dog imaginable. These two factors make, in my opinion, on-going training and early puppy socialization, all important. Without it, Bullmastiffs can become over-protective and over-aggressive towards strangers and other dogs, etc. Bullmastiffs do not tend to tolerate LARGE variances in temperature. They do not like extreme heat or extreme cold. They will however frolick in a snow drift of two when the opportunity arises. Exercise Requirements The Bullmastiff is not a high-energy dog. One longish walk every day should take care of required excercise. But play sessions, trips to exciting places and other highlights should be incorporated as they will otherwise tend to get bored. NOTE: Bullmastiffs do tend to have a high tolerance for pain and often will not complain about discomfort until the condition is quite bad. Suitability for Working People The Bullmastiff seems to tolerate being left alone well, and would fit into a family where both parties are working. Although it should be noted that any puppy will require someone coming home during the afternoon. Please note that puppies of any breed are a LOT of work and require without a doubt, time, energy and love. On average a puppy requires at least 4 hours per day and probably more if you are into any type of training. Grooming Requirements Bullmastiffs are a short-haired dog which have minimal shedding. The brushes I have found that work the best are: rubber palm brushes used in a circular motion to lift out dead hair and bring the oil to the surface followed by a slicker brush to trap the hair. A grooming session at least once a week should be sufficient. Ear cleaning and nail clipping is a definit must. Specific Health Problems Hip Dysplasia Hip dysplasia is a progressive degeneration of the coxofemoral joint that occurs following the development of joint laxity when the dog is growing. The word dysplasia means simply "improper growth". Since the hip is composed not only of bone but, also the muscles, tendons, ligaments and joint capsule holding the bones together, there are limitless ways in which "improper growth" can occur. Therefore, hip dysplasia is not an "all-or-nothing disease, but is a syndrome, that, may progress from clinically undetectable to marked hindlimb debility. (All dogs have normal hips at birth). If, due to hereditary predisposition or enviromental influence, the bones and soft tissues mature out of synchrony, there develops an incompatibility of the parts of the hip. This leads to joint instability so that the ball and socket are not held together properly. When joint instability is present, the weight of the animal is no longer borne only by the perfectly smooth cartilage surfaces of the joint. Lesions (therefore, pain) develop at these sites of abnormal pressure. This is the start of degenerative joint disease or arthritis, which is what actually produces the signs we recognize (e.g., wobbly gait, soreness, slow rising, nonweight bearing). * Breeders who have bred only dogs with radiographically normal hips have decreased the incidence of hip dysplasia (in offspring) without exception! The Bullmastiff ranks 6th out of the top ten breeds for Hip-Dysplasia. ( as of 1994 ). Nothing we can do, however, will completely limit the occurrence of hip dysplasia in any line or breeds of dogs. When looking for a new pup always check the Dam and Sire's OFA's. These are certification numbers given to dogs who's x-rays have been taken on or after the age of two, and been certified by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals. This will give you a good idea of the shape of the dogs hips. In Canada hip x-rays can be certified by the Ontario Veterinary College at the age of 18 months. The following is an example of a dogs OFA number and what it means: BMF-558G24M-T BMF-Bullmastiff 558-558th Bullmastiff certified ( E-excellent, G-good, F-fair) 24-x-rayed at 24 months M-male T-tattooed The OVC number would look something like AA0918 and state only wether the dog shows any radiographic evidence of hip dysplasia. Osteochondritis Dessicans or Elbow Dysplasia OCD "osteochondritis desicans" or Elbow Dysplasia affects dogs of the large rapidly growing breeds between the ages of four and twelve months. It usually is found in the shoulder joints, but rarely it can affect the hocks or stifles. It is due to a defect in the cartilage overlying the head of one of the long bones. A puppy who jumps down stairs might sustain such an injury. The tendency for cartilage to be easily damaged may be hereditary. Repeated stress to the joint perpetrates the condition. The signs are gradual lameness in a young dog of one of the larger breeds, typically between six to seven months of age OFA now certifies elbows as well as hips. Hypothyroidism Hypothyroidism - This condition is due to inadequate thyroid hormone from the thyroid gland. Signs of thyroid defiency are lethargy, obesity, drooping of the eyelids, mental dullness and irregular heat cycles.Thyroid defiency causes the hair to become thin ans scant.The hair is coarse and brittle and falls out easily, skin gets thick, tough and dark in color.This can cause many problems and you should ask about this in parents and grand-parents. The condition is easy to treat with thyroid hormone give daily. Usually it is permanent and requires lifetime treatment. Eye Problems Entropion - This condition causes the eyelid and lashes to roll inwards causing irritation and possible ulcerization to the eyeball. It can be effectivitly treated with surgery. The symptoms are: puffy eyes with discharge, eyes that look half closed. Lymphoma Sarcoma Some Bullmastiff breeders are seeing an alarming trait in some lines with the development of lymphoma sarcoma. You should talk with the breeder to make sure that this trend did not exist in past litters of both parents and grand-parents. Origin and Purpose The Bullmastiff was developed in England by gamekeepers for protection against poachers. The foundation breeding for the modern purebred was 60 per cent Mastiff and 40 per cent bulldog. It is a guard and companion dog, and should be loyal, obedient, and thus suitable for training. General Appearance The Bullmastiff is a powerfully built, symmetrical dog, showing great strength and activity, but not cumbersome; upstanding and compact in appearance, with breadth and depth of skull and body, the latter set in strong, sturdy well boned legs.The height measured vertically from the ground to the highest point of the withers, should nearly equal the length measured horizontally from the forechest to the rear part of the upper thigh, and should slightly exceed the height at the hips. Bitches are feminine in appearance, of somewhat lighter bone structure than the male, but should still convey strength. Faults: (S) Lack of balance. Poor or light bone structure. (M) Lack of muscular development. Ranginess Temperament The Bullmastiff should be bold, fearless and courageous, a dependable guard dog; alert and intelligent. Faults: (S) Viciousness, Shyness (M) Apathy and sluggishness Size Height at the highest point of the withers: Dogs: 25-27 in (63-69 cm) Bitches 24-26 in (61-66 cm) Weight: Dogs: 110-130 lbs (50-59 kgs), Bitches 100-120 lbs (45-55 kgs) It is important that the weight be in proportion to height and bone structure, to ensure balance. Faults: (S) Over or under maximum height (M) Over or under maximum weight Coat and Colour Coat short and dense, giving good weather protection. Colour: any shade of red, fawn or brindle, but the colour must be pure and clear. A small white marking on chest is permissible but not desirable. Faults: (S) White markings other than on the chest (M) Black shading on body, legs or tail (reds and fawns) Head The skull should be large, equal in breadth, length and depth, with fair amount of wrinkle when the dog is interested; well developed cheeks. The skull in circumference may measure the height of the dog. Forehead flat, with furrow between the eyes. Stop definite. Faults: (S) Narrow or shallow skull. (M) Domed forehead. Insufficient stop Muzzle should be short, broad and deep, in the same proportion as the skull. The distance from the tip of the nose to the stop should not exceed one third of the length from the tip of the nose to the center occiput. Broad under the eyes and nearly parallel in width to the end of the nose: blunt and cut off square, appearing in profile in a plane parallel to the line of the skull. A black mask is essential. The nose should be black, flat and broad with widely spreading nostrils when viewed from the front. Flews not to pendulous. The lower jaw broad. Faults: (S) Muzzle to long, to narrow, pointed or lacking in depth. Muzzle too short; nostrils set on top; nose pointed, upturned or laid back; lower jaw narrow. (M) Lack of wrinkle. Flews too pendulous Teeth preferably level bite or slightly undershot. canine teeth large and set wide apart; other teeth strong, even and well placed. Faults: (S) Teeth overshot. Teeth more than a 1/4 in (.6 cm) undershot. Wry mouth. (M) Irregular or poorly place teeth. Small teeth. Eyes dark or hazel, and of medium size; set apart the width of the muzzle. Faults: (M) Light eyes. Eyes to close together or too small. Ears should be V-shaped and carried close to the cheeks; set on wide and high, level with the occupit, giving a square appearance to the skull which is most important. They should be darker in colour than the body, and the point of the ear when alert, should be level with the eye. Faults: (S) Rose ears. (M) Ears to long or to short. Lack of darker colour. Neck Well placed arched of moderate length, very muscular, and almost equal in circumference to the skull Faults: (S) Neck to short or to long. Neck weak and scrawny. Forequarters Proper angulation and proportionate bone lengths of the forequarters are very important. The shoulder bone should slope forward and downward from the withers at an angle of 45 degrees from the vertical. The humerus (upper arm) should form a right angle with the shoulder bone, 45 degrees from the vertical. The shoulder bone and the humerus should be approximately equal in length. The length of the foreleg from the ground to the elbow should be little more than half the distance from the ground to the withers, approximately 52 per cent. The shoulders and upper arms should be muscular and powerful, with round heavy bone, vertical and parallel to each other, set well apart; elbows set close to the body. Pasterns straight and strong. Feet of medium size, not turning in or out, with round toes, well arched. Pads thick and tough. Nails black. Faults: (S) Lack of proportion in bone. Shoulder to steep. Shoulders overloaded. Elbows turned in or out. Lack of bone in forelegs. Forelegs bowed. Weak pasterns. Splayed feet. (M) Feet turned in or out. White nails Body and Tail Body compact. Chest wide and deep, with ribs well sprung and well set down between the forelegs. Back short and level. Loins wide, muscular; croup slightly arched, with fair depth of flank. Faults: (S) Body to long. Shallow chest. Narrow chest. Lack of ribspring. Sway back. Roach back. Tip of hipbone higher than withers. (M) To much tuck up Tail set on high, strong at the root and tapering to the hocks. It may be carried straight or curved. Faults: (S) Screw tail. Crank tail. Tail set to low. (M) Tail carried hound fashion. To long or to short. Too heavily coated. Hindquarters It is important that structure, angulation, and proportionate bone lengths of the hindquarters be in balance with the forequarters. The pelvis (hip bone) should slope backward and downward from the spine at an angle of 30 degrees. The femur (upper thigh bone) should form a right angle with the pelvis. The lower thigh bone (stifle) should set at an angle of 45 degrees to the vertical. The pelvis and femur should be approximately equal in length. The ratio of the lengths of the femur, to the tibia/fibula, to the hock should be approximately as 4:5:3. The length of the lower leg, from the ground to the hock joint, should be little less than 30% of the distance from the ground to the top of the hip bones. The lower leg should be vertical to the ground. The hip bones should be broad, in balance with shoulders and rib cage. Hind legs strong and muscular, with well developed second thighs, denoting power and activity, but not cumbersome, set parallel to each other and well apart, in balance with forelegs and body. Feet as in forequarters. Faults: (S) Lack of proportion in bone. Poor angulation at hip bone. Narrow hip structure. Stifle to straight or over angulated. Cowhocks. Bowed hind legs. Splay feet. (M) Feet turned in or out. White nails. Gait The gait should be free, balanced and vigourous. When viewed from the side the dog should have good reach in the forequarters and good driving power in the hind hindquarters. The back should be level and firm, indicating good transmission from back to front. When viewed from the front (coming towards) or from the rear (going away), at a moderate pace, the dog shall track in two parallel lines, neither to close together nor to far apart, so place as to give a strong well balanced movement. The toes (fore and hind) should point straight ahead. Direction to exhibitors and judges The dog should be moved in the ring at a sufficient speed to show fluidity of movement, and not a slow walk. Faults: (S) Rolling, paddling or weaving when gaited. Any crossing movement either front or rear. Stilted or restricted movement. Dogs with structural weakness as evidenced by poor movement should not be used for breeding.) Disqualifications Liver mask. No mask. Yellow eyes. Note Faults are classified as Serious and Minor, indicated as (S) and (M) respectively. Note the minor faults are either points which would not of themselves contribute to unsoundness in the dog, or are the result of poor conditioning, which might be controlled, and are not likely to be hereditary. |