Bullmastiff Overview
Origin: United Kingdom
Developed in 19th-century England by gamekeepers who crossed Mastiffs with Bulldogs to create a dog powerful enough to pin down poachers but quiet and controlled enough not to maul them.
The Bullmastiff originated in England during the 19th century, developed from Bulldogs and Mastiffs to create a powerful guardian dog for estates and game preservation. They combine the Bulldog’s courage with Mastiff size and strength. They are recognised by the ANKC as massive, powerful companion dogs with calm temperaments despite their intimidating appearance.
Bullmastiffs have moderate presence in Australia but face breed-specific legislation (BSL) complications in some states. They are ANKC-recognised but restrictions apply in parts of NSW, VIC, QLD, and SA. Before considering ownership, verify local council regulations—some areas prohibit them entirely, others require muzzling and liability insurance. Even in permissive areas, obtaining rental properties and insurance is challenging. They are brachycephalic-adjacent, struggling significantly in hot climates. Coastal NSW/VIC suit them far better than inland areas or QLD.
When legal ownership is possible, Bullmastiffs are loyal, protective companions suited to experienced owners in spacious homes with cool climates. Their massive size, heat sensitivity, and substantial costs require serious commitment. These dogs thrive as family guardians in appropriate environments but demand acceptance of legal restrictions and public perception challenges.
Bullmastiff Personality & Temperament
Understanding the Bullmastiff temperament is the most important step before bringing one home.
Loyal, protective, calm, gentle, courageous, devoted
Breed Ratings at a Glance
How the Bullmastiff scores across key traits (1 = Low, 5 = High).
Is a Bullmastiff Right for You?
❌
House with yard
Good (needs space)
Separation Anxiety: Moderate — this breed may struggle if left alone for long periods.
Bullmastiff Size & Appearance
Size
Giant
Weight M
45–60 kg
Weight F
40–50 kg
Height
63–69 cm
Coat
Short, dense
Colours
Fawn, red, brindle
Variations
None (large only)
Brachycephalic
No
Hypoallergenic
No
Bullmastiff Health & Lifespan
🔴Critical: Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (Bloat)
Bullmastiff is at elevated risk of bloat (GDV), a life-threatening emergency where the stomach twists on itself. Symptoms include a distended abdomen, unproductive retching, and restlessness. Immediate veterinary intervention is essential. Discuss preventive gastropexy with your vet.
9 years
Average Lifespan
Known Health Conditions
Joint development issue
Est. treatment: 2000–4000
Heart disease
Est. treatment: 2000–5000
Bloat (life-threatening)
Est. treatment: 2000–4000
Recommended Health Tests:
Hip and elbow scores, cardiac evaluation, ophthalmologist evaluation
Pet Insurance for Bullmastiff
Avg Annual Insurance: $950
Monthly Estimate: Estimated 70–120/month (availability limited)
Recommended Insurers:
• Bow Wow Meow
• PD Insurance
• Petinsurance.com.au
• Budget Direct
• Petcover
• NRMA
TIP: Insure before 6 months.
Compare insurance policies for your Bullmastiff
Given this breed's known health conditions, comprehensive coverage is recommended for Australian owners.
Compare Pet Insurance →
Bullmastiff Cost of Ownership (AUD)
| Category | Amount (AUD) |
|---|
| PURCHASE |
$2,000 - $4,000 |
| Food |
$2,800 |
| Vet |
$850 |
| Grooming |
$200 |
| Insurance |
$950 |
| TOTAL/yr |
$3,932 |
| Monthly |
$261 |
| LIFETIME (9 yrs) |
$35,388 |
| FIRST-YEAR EXTRAS |
$1,200–$2,200 (desexing, vax, microchip, setup, puppy school) |
$35,388
Estimated lifetime cost (9 years)
All prices in AUD. Costs vary by state, vet, and lifestyle. Sources: PetSure, RSPCA, Animal Medicines Australia.
Bullmastiff Grooming Guide
Frequency
Every 8–12 weeks
Brushing
N/A
Professional Cost
50–80
Coat
Short, dense
Shedding
★★★☆☆/5
Tools
Slicker/pin brush, deshedding tool, nail clippers
Nails
Every 4–6 weeks | Ears: Monthly | Teeth: 2–3×/week
Bullmastiff Exercise Needs
Daily Exercise
45 minutes
Type
Moderate walks, gentle play
Energy
★★☆☆☆/5
Separation Anxiety
Moderate
Mental Stimulation
Puzzle feeders, sniff walks, 10min training/day
Sports
Agility, flyball, scent work, swimming (breed-dependent)
Training Your Bullmastiff
Trainability: ★★★★☆/5
First-Time Owner: ★☆☆☆☆/5
N/A
Tips: Positive reinforcement only | Puppy school 8–12 weeks
Short 5–10min sessions | Socialise early with dogs, people, sounds
Finding a Reputable Bullmastiff Breeder
REGISTRIES:
• ANKC
• Mastiff Club
GREEN FLAGS: Health tests, ANKC/RPBA reg, visits allowed, health guarantee, screens buyers
RED FLAGS: Always available, multiple breeds, no health tests, Gumtree/social media sellers, pet shops
✅ Green Flags
- Registered with ANKC, RPBA, MDBA, or RightPaw
- Invites you to visit and meet the mother (dam)
- Provides health test results for parents
- Includes vet certificate, microchip, and vaccination records
- Has a waiting list (sign of demand, not a puppy farm)
❌ Red Flags
- Multiple breeds always available with no wait
- Won't let you visit or meet the mother
- No health testing mentioned
- Price significantly below market average
- Meets in a public place instead of their property
Trusted Australian Registries:
ANKC (ankc.org.au) · RPBA (rpba.org.au) · RightPaw (rightpaw.com.au) · Dogs Australia · ACF
Adopting a Bullmastiff in Australia
RESCUE OPTIONS:
• Mastiff Rescue Australia
• RSPCA Australia
Adoption Cost: $250–$600 AUD
(includes desexing, microchip, vaccinations)
Search PetRescue.com.au — Australia's largest adoption platform
❤️ Thousands of dogs need homes. Rescue dogs come desexed, vaccinated, and microchipped.
Bullmastiff — Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Bullmastiff cost in Australia?
ANKC-registered Bullmastiff breeders charge 2000–3500. Add substantial costs: food (50–80/week), veterinary care (2000+/year), pet insurance (70–120/month), and potential BSL-related expenses. Always verify local legality first.
Can I legally own a Bullmastiff in my area?
Legality varies by state and council. Some areas prohibit Bullmastiffs entirely; others require muzzling, special registration, and liability insurance. Check your local council website before purchasing. This is the critical first step.
Do Bullmastiffs shed a lot?
Bullmastiffs shed moderately year-round. Weekly brushing with a rubber curry brush manages loose hair. During shedding season, daily brushing reduces hair around your home.
How long do Bullmastiffs live?
Bullmastiffs have relatively short lifespans of 8–10 years. Their massive size contributes to shorter longevity. This is a significant consideration for potential owners.
Are Bullmastiffs good with children?
Bullmastiffs are protective and gentle with family children. However, their massive size (45–60 kg) requires supervision to prevent accidental knockdowns. They suit families with older children and experienced parents.
How much exercise does a Bullmastiff need?
Bullmastiffs need moderate exercise: 30–45 minutes of gentle daily walking. Their massive size and heat sensitivity limit strenuous activity. They are content as indoor companions in cool homes.
What health problems do Bullmastiffs have?
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, dilated cardiomyopathy, and gastric dilatation-volvulus (bloat—life-threatening) are common. Heat-related illness is significant in warm climates. Regular cardiac screening is essential.
Where can I find a Bullmastiff breeder in Australia?
Contact the Mastiff Club of Australia or ANKC-registered breeders. Before purchasing, verify your legal right to own one locally. Request health screening for hip, elbow, and cardiac issues. Breed rescue groups exist in some states.
Is pet insurance worth it for Bullmastiffs?
Pet insurance (70–120/month) is highly recommended given their predisposition to costly conditions like hip dysplasia, heart disease, and bloat. Treatment costs (2000–5000+) justify coverage.
Are Bullmastiffs unsuitable for hot Australian climates?
Yes, Bullmastiffs struggle significantly in hot climates. They are heat-sensitive and prone to overheating. Coastal NSW/VIC with temperate climates suit them; inland Australia, QLD, and summer heat pose serious health risks.
