Living with a Bullmastiff: Pros and Cons You Need to Consider

The Bullmastiff is a large and powerful breed of dog that has been bred for generations to be a protector and a companion. While these dogs are known for their loyalty and affection towards their families, there are also certain challenges that come with owning a Bullmastiff. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of living with a Bullmastiff, so you can make an informed decision about whether this breed is right for you.

Pros of Living with a Bullmastiff

1. Loyal and Protective: Bullmastiffs are fiercely loyal to their families and will do whatever it takes to protect them. These dogs have a natural instinct to guard their territory, which makes them excellent watchdogs.

2. Gentle Giants: Despite their size, Bullmastiffs are gentle and affectionate with their families. They are known for being excellent with children and making great family pets.

3. Low Energy: Bullmastiffs are not high-energy dogs, and are content with a moderate amount of exercise each day. This makes them a good choice for people who live in apartments or don’t have a lot of time for exercise.

4. Easy to Groom: Bullmastiffs have short, dense coats that are easy to maintain. They don’t require frequent grooming or bathing, which can be a plus for busy owners.

5. Health Benefits: Owning a dog has been shown to have many health benefits, including lower blood pressure, decreased anxiety, and increased exercise. Bullmastiffs can provide all of these benefits, while also being a loyal and loving companions.

Cons of Living with a Bullmastiff

1. Size: Bullmastiffs are large dogs, weighing between 100 and 130 pounds. They require a lot of space to move around, which can be a challenge for people who live in small apartments or houses.

2. Health Issues: Bullmastiffs are prone to certain health issues, such as hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and bloat. These health issues can be expensive to treat and may require regular veterinary care.

3. Training: Bullmastiffs require early socialization and obedience training to ensure that they are well-behaved and obedient. Without proper training, they can become destructive and aggressive.

4. Shedding: While Bullmastiffs have short, dense coats, they do shed. This can be a problem for people who are allergic to dog hair or who prefer a clean home.

5. Cost: Bullmastiffs can be expensive to purchase from a reputable breeder, and they require regular veterinary care, food, and grooming. This can add up to a significant expense over the life of the dog.

Tips for Living with a Bullmastiff

If you are considering getting a Bullmastiff, there are certain things you can do to make living with your dog easier:

1. Provide Plenty of Space: Bullmastiffs need a lot of space to move around, so make sure you have a large yard or a spacious home.

2. Start Training Early: Early socialization and obedience training are key to ensuring that your Bullmastiff is well-behaved and obedient.

3. Brush Regularly: While Bullmastiffs have short coats, they do shed. Brushing your dog regularly will help keep shedding under control and will also help keep your dog’s coat looking healthy.

4. Provide Regular Exercise: While Bullmastiffs don’t require a lot of exercises, they do need regular walks and playtime to stay healthy and happy.

5. Consider Your Lifestyle: Before getting a Bullmastiff, consider whether your lifestyle is compatible with owning a large dog. If you travel frequently or have a busy schedule, a Bullmastiff may not be the best choice for you.

Conclusion

Living with a Bullmastiff can be a rewarding experience, but it’s important to carefully weigh the pros and cons before making the decision to bring one of these dogs into your home. While Bullmastiffs are loyal, affectionate, and protective, they also require a lot of space, early training, and regular veterinary care.