Saturday, September 1, 2012

Breed of the Month--Bullmastiff


Bullmastiff


Color:  Must have black muzzle, can have white markings...red, brindle, fawn.
Height:  Males:  25-27 inches/  Females:  24-26 inches
Weight:  Males:  110-130 lbs/  Females:  90-120 lbs
Life Span:  8-10 years


Breed Health Concerns:  Allergies, cardiomyopathy, subaortic stenosis, mast cell tumors, bloat, elbow dysplasia, hemangiosarcoma, osteosarcoams, retinal atrophy.


Coat:  Dense, weather resistant, short, hard, lying flat to body.
Country of Origin:  Great Britain

Visit the American Kennel Club for breed standards and more information.

Created by crossing Bulldogs and English Mastiffs, the Bullmastiff was designed to be more agile and a quiet tracker, originally called "Gamekeeper's Night Dogs."  Poaching carried the penalty of death in England and Bullmastiffs were used to quietly bring them down.

The Bullmastiff of today is more mellow but still widely used for his amazing guarding abilities.  He is protective, but not aggressive.  The Bullmastiff is devoted to his family and alert, but is essentially a calm breed.  The Bullmastiff needs strong leadership and is not a breed recommended for first time dog owners.

Exercise:
Although the Bullmastiff is a very large dog, he does not require an enormous amount of exercise, and can sometimes be a bit lazy.  Regular twice daily walks will keep the Bullmastiff happy and healthy.

Grooming:
The coat of the Bullmastiff is easy to care for and needs only be brushed a few times a week.  Take extra special attention to keep the wrinkles of the face clean and free from infection.

Training:
The Bullmastiff grows large quite quickly and must be trained on basic manners from puppyhood.  Independent minded, the Bullmastiff needs consistent positive reinforcement training.  Socialization from puppyhood is also vital for the breed.






No comments:

Post a Comment