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 and overpower a poacher.
They are classified as a Working Dog. The English Bulldog from which the Bullmastiff is bred from is quite different from today's modern version. The English Bulldog of the 19th century was a more athletic dog than many of today's, although the loyal and calm temperaments are still the same.
They present an aristocratic, attentive and intelligent look. The Bullmastiff is distinguished from the English Mastiff by its 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. They do not take well to being bullied into something but will accept leadership. Obedience work with Bullmastiffs can be challenging as they are independent thinkers, but once learned it sticks!
The Bullmastiff seems to be very easy-going and as such tends to integrate well with other dogs, providing LOTS of socialisation with other dogs is a on going thing. But as with any breed, you should start socialisation early. Puppy kindergarten type situations are definitely recommended. As far as the Bullmastiffs relationship to other animals (other than dogs) we can only draw on our own experience; our Bullmastiffs tolerate our cats and pet sheep but love to play chase with them if they can. I have heard from others that size rather than aggressiveness is often more an issue when being around other animals. Often Bullmastiffs don't realise their size and 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. This being said, if the family is loving and welcoming, getting a grown Bullmastiff dog through rescue contacts is a wonderful option, for those that don't want to go through the early "puppy" years. Almost all of the Bullmastiffs I meet in other people's homes are immediately outgoing and interested in being my best friend. 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 can live outdoors providing a balance is met and they also spend time indoors. Ours will happily do both.
Bullmastiffs are also very good with children. 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 required.
They are a naturally protective dog. They have a suspicious nature in regards to strangers and "size" people up. Sufficient socialisation 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. These two factors make, in my opinion, make on-going training and early puppy socialisation, all important. Without it, Bullmastiffs can become over-protective and over-aggressive towards strangers and other dogs, etc. The most amazing thing about Bullmastiffs is their ability to sense people's intentions - they seem to know instinctively the difference between a "bad" person and a harmless visitor to their property.
Bullmastiffs do not tend to tolerate LARGE variances in temperature. They do not like extreme heat or extreme cold. Although our Bullmastiffs love nothing better than playing in the snow, And we even have some that love the rain !!!
The Bullmastiff is not a high-energy dog. One longish walk every day should take care of required exercise. But play sessions, trips to exciting places and other highlights should be incorporated as they will otherwise tend to get bored. But until at least 12 months old possibly 18 months, exercise and walks should be on the dogs say so. Your dogs should be tired when they get home, not half way round. Be careful not to over exercise a youngster, as he or she will not complain but chances are he or she will suffer in later life.
NOTE: Bullmastiffs do tend to have a high tolerance for pain and often will not complain about discomfort until the condition is quite bad.
The Bullmastiff seems to tolerate being left alone for reasonable lengths of time, so long as they have lots to stimulate them, leave a radio or t.v. on for company. Providing the ground work is done as a puppy a Bullmastiff will fit into a family where both parties are working. It should be noted that any puppy will require someone coming home during the morning and afternoon. A Bullmastiff puppy will become destructive if left to its own devices.
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. Which all Bullmastiffs need especially in the early days.
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 once a day should be sufficient to keep the coat in good condition and to help show you are the pack leader.
Ear cleaning is a must as is nail clipping.
Would recommend natural teeth cleaning by chewing a LARGE raw meaty bone, alternatively you can brush them.
While this seems like a large list it should be remembered that the occurrences of some of the above conditions is rare. Hip dysplasia probably being the most common condition. As far as the breed as a whole, my vet has said it has very few commonly occurring medical problems as far as her vet science books are concerned.