 In the early 19th century, English gamekeepers created this noble breed by crossing the Bulldog with the Mastiff to obtain fleet-footed, powerful dogs, known as night dogs, for protection against poachers. These dogs combined tremendous physical strength and guarding instinct with an affectionate disposition and devotion to their master.  Fleetness of foot and the instinct to pursue have remained definite characteristics of the Bullmastiff. Because they are so powerful, it is essential that they be trained early not to jump on people. They are most intelligent and easily obedience trained; however, a Bullmastiff has a definite mind of his own. His independence of spirit make your relationship with him more of a working partnership than the conventional dog/master association which some people might expect.  He will give you and your family boundless love and devotion, but he will retain a portion of himself as a free spirit, capable of making his own decisions and acting on them. Your children will be his charges, to protect and love; but they must respect him, and not be allowed to torment or tease him. The Bullmastiff asks only to be made as much a part of the family as possible. He will reward such treatment with a devotion and genuine friendship which is not exceeded in any other breed.  |
