How to Care for a Bullmastiff

Bullmastiffs make great companions, as they love to be around people and are relatively calm while indoors. But, as friendly as they are, bullmastiffs have a dominant personality and need to be trained to interact with adults, children and other animals.

Things You'll Need

  • Electric Dog Clippers
  • Dog Balls
  • Dog Beds
  • Dog Bones
  • Dog Bristle Brushes
  • Dog Collars
  • Dog Conditioner
  • Dog Dishes
  • Dog Flea/tick Control Medication
  • Dog Grooming Sprays
  • Dog Leashes
  • Dog Shampoo
  • Dog Tags
  • Dog Training Aids
  • Dog Treats
  • High-quality Dog Food
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Have your bullmastiff vaccinated when you first get her, and have her get yearly booster vaccinations to maintain her immunity to disease. Consult your veterinarian about flea control products. If your dog has a bowel problem, have your veterinarian test a fecal sample, and then administer appropriate medications if necessary.

    • 2

      Choose a dog food formulated specifically for large breeds, which will mean lower amounts of protein and fat than are found in other dog foods. According to the American Bullmastiff Association, a good guideline for puppies is 19 to 25 percent protein and 8 to 14 percent fat. Look for meat as the first ingredient.

    • 3

      Train your bullmastiff at an early age to be around people, especially children and other animals. The bullmastiff puppy needs early socialization to people and different locations. This breed can be aggressive and needs to be reminded who is in charge. Train your bullmastiff not to pull on her leash.

    • 4

      Walk your bullmastiff daily. This breed is not very active and can gain weight easily.

    • 5

      Bathe your bullmastiff only when necessary. The dog's shorthaired coat tends to stay clean and sheds very little.

    • 6

      Brush your dog's coat occasionally with a firm-bristle brush.

    • 7

      Trim the nails frequently and check the foot pads often for wear and tear, as this breed carries a lot of weight.

    • 8

      Feed your bullmastiff two or three small meals a day instead of one large meal, as this breed is prone to bloat.

    • 9

      Understand the health problems associated with bullmastiffs, such as hip dysplasia, bloat and eyelid problems. Many bullmastiffs also have thyroid problems, so check for this when your dog is over 3 years of age.

    • 10

      Expect your bullmastiff to live for less than 10 years; this is the breed's average life expectancy.