Fetch Finder

Breed guide

Bullmastiff

A powerful guardian bred to stop poachers. Calm and loving at home, fearless as a protector.

A Bullmastiff
Photo: Fausto Moreno · CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
SizeLarge
Weight100–130 lb
Lifespan7–9 years
Yearly cost$2,500–$4,500*
👪 Good family dog Usually good with kids, with training and supervision.

At a glance

Energy level
Shedding
Grooming needs
Apartment-friendly
Handles cold
Affectionate / cuddly
Good with kids
Good for first-time owners
Easy to train
Good with other dogs
Good with cats
OK being left alone
Reliable off-leash
Protective / watchdog
Barking
Drooling

Great for

  • Calm households
  • Families wanting a guardian
  • Experienced owners

Watch out for

  • Drools
  • Short lifespan
  • Can be dog-aggressive

Daily care

Exercise: 30–60 minutes a day.

Grooming: Minimal.

Cold weather: Short coat; limit time in deep cold.

*Yearly cost covers food, routine vet care, preventatives, toys and supplies. It doesn't include the purchase or adoption fee, emergencies or grooming beyond basics.

Gear for a Bullmastiff

Some links are affiliate links: if you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Find a Bullmastiff near you

We're building a list of trusted Bullmastiff rescues, breeders and trainers. Rescues are listed first.

Listings coming soon. In the meantime:

Run a Bullmastiff rescue, training or grooming business? Get listed free.

Not sure a Bullmastiff is right for you? Take the 3-minute quiz to see which breeds fit your home and lifestyle.

Take the breed quiz

Similar breeds