Have I studied this breed? : are you fully aware of all the breed specific issues …

Joint issues-Hip Dysplasia,,Osteochondrosis Dissecans (OCD),Panosteitis (Pano)

Allergies

Immune system Dysfunction

Lazy Whelpers, difficulty breeding,, Pyometria,mastitis,False pregnancy

Eye problems

Bloat

Prone to Urinary and Ear infections

Heat Stroke

Obesity

The life expectancy for Bullmastiffs 8 – 10 years.

Is the bullmastiff the right breed for you?: stating the obvious here, they are big! They need to be obedience trained. They drool, they snore, their tail is like a weapon and I have the bruises to prove it. They need a strong well rounded human, who will exercise them, spend hours playing and training. They need to have their dietary intake monitored not only for its nutritional value but also because if allowed they will gorge themselves to the point of bloat. They will tear down prized landscaping because that nice shrub really looks like a chew toy to them. They will try to eat rocks, bricks and anything else they can get in there mouth. Basically they are like 100lb plus toddlers that need to be watched, and taught right from wrong. Don’t think of a Bullmastiff as a dog that you can buy and it will just lay there, They are energetic and mischievous at times. Don’t leave your favorite shoes laying around and expect them to be there later.

Owner Responsibilities:

Training, Socialization, ( Dream Acres asks for a contractual agreement as to the proper training of Puppies)

Weekly care :Grooming consists of not only brushing also giving attention to the eyes, teeth, ears, feet and nails.( Nails should be trimmed weekly to prevent splay feet ) Bathing should be held to a minimum based on the fact that Bullmastiffs are prone to dry skin if bathed to frequently. If proper brushing is done and a damp cloth is ran over coat to remove excess dirt. Bullmastiffs are a low maintenance in the bathing department. The coat being weather resistant.

Can you afford a quality Bred Bullmastiff?: Please read my article on why some breeders charge what they do.

Can You afford the expense of owning and caring for a Bullmastiff: you must be willing to spend quite a bit having your puppy inoculated and monthly doses of flea repellants and heart worm meds. You should also be supporting health with supplements. Bullmastiffs also to have at the minimum basic obedience training. You should also factor in emergency care.

And don’t forget the Food! A 100lb Bullmastiff will require 3-4 cups of premium kibble daily. If you are feeding Fribble- n -Its or Chowtime ( names changed to protect the guilty) you can look forward to feeding 6-8 cups daily. And factor in the vet bills increasing too…would you raise your human children on coocoo puffs and wing dings? Listen to your breeders if you are considering changes in the diet of your Bully they will direct you better then those filling there pockets with kick backs !

Mary Atchison