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Bull Mastiff

Bull Mastiff is a giant working breed from England also known as Gamekeeper's Night Dog, Bull Mastiff.

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Bull Mastiff

Breed overview

Bull Mastiff is a giant working breed from England also known as Gamekeeper's Night Dog, Bull Mastiff.

Developed in 19th-century England by crossing Bulldogs and Mastiffs to guard estates from poachers.

People looking into Bull Mastiff usually prepare for Moderate exercise needs, Low grooming needs, 100–130 lbs • 24–27 in.

Gamekeeper's Night DogBull Mastiff

History and origin

Bull Mastiff is tied to originating from England, specifically English estates, with sources often placing its development around 1860 CE.

Bull Mastiff is described here as placed in the Working group and marked as an established breed.

Developed in 19th-century England by crossing Bulldogs and Mastiffs to guard estates from poachers.

Browse dog breeds from England Browse more Working breeds

Quick facts

Breed group
Working
Size
Giant
Origin country
England
Region
English estates
Origin year
1860 CE
Weight
100–130 lbs
Height
24–27 in
Lifespan
8–10 years
Breed status
Established

Traits and day-to-day fit

Energy level
2 / 5
Trainability
3 / 5
Good with children
4 / 5
Shedding level
3 / 5
Barking tendency
2 / 5
Moderate exercise needsLow grooming needsChildren score: 4/5Trainability: 3/5

Coat and classification

Bull Mastiff is grouped here with these coat and texture descriptors.

ShortDense

Bull Mastiff is also listed as recognized by these kennel-club organizations.

Recognized by AKCRecognized by FCIRecognized by CKCRecognized by KCRecognized by KCA

Appearance and build

  • Powerful, muscular build
  • Broad, square head
  • Short muzzle with black mask
  • Short, dense coat in fawn, red, or brindle

What this breed is known for

  • Developed in 19th-century England by crossing Bulldogs and Mastiffs to guard estates from poachers.
  • Bullmastiffs are powerfully built and loyal, known for their gentle affection with family despite their imposing size.
  • They are natural guardians—confident and brave yet typically docile and quiet at home.

Health and care notes

Bull Mastiff is noted here for Moderate exercise needs and Low grooming needs.

  • Hip Dysplasia
  • Elbow Dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Cancer

Coat details: Short, Dense

These are informational breed-guide notes, not veterinary advice.

Frequently asked questions

Where does the Bull Mastiff come from?

Bull Mastiff is closely associated with England, especially English estates in the sources used for this page.

How big does a Bull Mastiff get?

Typical size details for Bull Mastiff on this page are 100–130 lbs, 24–27 in, 8–10 years.

What is the Bull Mastiff known for?

Developed in 19th-century England by crossing Bulldogs and Mastiffs to guard estates from poachers.

Sources and citations

References below include kennel-club profiles, breed standards, and supporting background links for deeper reading.
  1. American Kennel Club breed profile
    American Kennel Club
  2. Royal Kennel Club breed profile
    The Royal Kennel Club
  3. Royal Kennel Club breed standard
    The Royal Kennel Club • Breed standard
  4. Bull Mastiff reference page
    Wikipedia

Use the linked breed directories and standards for deeper reference. Breed guides are informational and do not replace veterinary or breeder advice.