Loyal and Protective

Bullmastiffs are naturally protective and make excellent guard dogs due to their size, strength, and loyalty. 

Calm and Gentle at Home

Despite their large size, Bullmastiffs are generally calm and gentle indoors, especially when properly exercised. 

Minimal Grooming Needs

Their short coat requires minimal grooming, making them relatively easy to care for in terms of coat maintenance. 

Good with Children

Bullmastiffs tend to be patient and gentle with children, making them great family dogs when properly socialised. 

High Exercise Needs for Size

Bullmastiffs, while calm indoors, require regular exercise to stay healthy and prevent boredom. 

Prone to Health Issues

Due to their large size, Bullmastiffs are prone to certain health issues, including joint problems and bloat, which can be expensive to manage. 

Can Be Stubborn

They are intelligent but can be independent and stubborn, requiring consistent training from an experienced handler. 

Not Ideal for Small Spaces:

Bullmastiffs are large dogs that do best in homes with plenty of space and access to a yard for outdoor activity. 

Exercise Needs

Bullmastiffs are moderately active dogs that require regular exercise to maintain their health. They enjoy walks, playtime, and outdoor activities, but their energy levels are generally lower than those of more active breeds. They are prone to obesity if not exercised regularly, so maintaining a daily routine is important. 

Walks

Bullmastiffs need at least one or two moderate walks per day, combined with playtime in a secure yard. Due to their size, they should not engage in strenuous exercise at a young age to prevent joint issues. 

Training

Bullmastiffs are intelligent but can be independent and stubborn. Early obedience training is crucial to manage their size and ensure they are well-behaved. Positive reinforcement works best with this breed, and consistency is key. Given their natural guarding instincts, they need to be trained to distinguish between normal and threatening situations. 

Purchase Price

$3,000 - $7,000 AUD depending on breeder and lineage. 

Initial Setup

Around $500 - $800 AUD. (crate, bed, toys, etc.)

Food

Approximately $1,500 - $2,000 AUD per year, given their size and dietary needs. 

Grooming

Minimal grooming costs, typically around $200 - $400 AUD per year. Their short coat requires only occasional brushing, but they benefit from regular ear cleaning and nail trimming. 

Vet Bills

Initial vaccinations, microchipping, and desexing can cost around $600 - $1,200 AUD. Ongoing annual check-ups and preventive care could cost $600 - $1,000 AUD per year, with additional costs for managing potential joint or digestive issues. 

Total Lifetime Cost

Over a 7-10 year lifespan, the total cost of ownership can range from $25,000 - $50,000 AUD, depending on health and lifestyle factors. 

Size and Weight

Bullmastiffs typically stand 61-69 cm (24-27 inches) tall and weigh between 45-59 kg (100-130 lbs), with males being larger than females. 

Coat

Bullmastiffs have a short, dense coat that is easy to maintain. While they shed moderately, their coat requires only occasional brushing to remove loose hair and keep it clean. 

Colour Options

Bullmastiffs come in a variety of colours, including fawn, red, and brindle. Some may have a black mask, adding to their imposing appearance. 

Temperament

Bullmastiffs are known for their calm, confident, and protective temperament. They are loyal and devoted to their families, and while they can be aloof or reserved with strangers, they are generally affectionate with those they know. Despite their size, Bullmastiffs are gentle and often enjoy being close to their family members. 

Good with Children

Bullmastiffs are typically good with children due to their patient and protective nature. However, because of their large size, supervision is recommended around younger children to prevent accidental injuries during play. 

Socialisation

Early and consistent socialisation is important for Bullmastiffs to ensure they are well-adjusted and comfortable around other animals, people, and environments. Proper socialisation helps manage their natural protective instincts. 

Indoors vs. Outdoors

Bullmastiffs prefer to live indoors with their families but need regular outdoor time for exercise. They are not suited to living outdoors full-time due to their strong bond with their family and their preference for human interaction. 

Apartment Living

Due to their large size, Bullmastiffs are not ideal for apartment living unless they have regular outdoor access. They do best in homes with yards where they can exercise, though their calm nature allows them to settle well indoors if properly exercised. 

Time Alone

Bullmastiffs can tolerate being left alone for moderate periods, but they thrive on companionship and may develop separation anxiety if isolated for long periods. They are best suited for homes where someone is present for most of the day. 

Common Health Issues

Bullmastiffs, like many large breeds, are prone to certain health conditions, including hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, bloat (gastric torsion), and heart issues. Regular vet check-ups, a balanced diet, and controlled exercise are essential for keeping them healthy. 

Guarding Ability

Bullmastiffs are naturally protective and make excellent guard dogs. They are loyal and will often act as a deterrent to intruders simply due to their size and presence. However, they are not overly aggressive unless provoked. 

Affectionate Nature

Despite their large size, Bullmastiffs are affectionate and enjoy being close to their families. They are known for their gentle nature and often seek out attention and affection from their owners. 

Suitability for Dog Parks

Bullmastiffs can be social with other dogs, but their size and protective instincts mean supervision is necessary in social settings like dog parks. Early socialisation helps ensure positive interactions with other pets. 

Climate Adaptability

Bullmastiffs can adapt to a variety of climates but may struggle in extreme heat due to their short snouts, which make them prone to overheating. In hot weather, it’s important to provide plenty of water, shade, and avoid exercising them during the hottest parts of the day. 

Ethical Breeding Considerations

Due to their predisposition to certain genetic conditions, such as hip dysplasia and bloat, it’s important to purchase from a reputable breeder who conducts health screenings. Ethical breeding practices help reduce the risk of hereditary health problems and ensure the well-being of the puppies.