Taking care of a Bullmastiff

The Bullmastiff is a magnificent breed of dog.  Their size intimidates most people.  Bullmastiffs are a very gentle and quiet breed if they are raised correctly.  Bullmastiffs are good with children and they make great family dogs.  Bullmastiffs do well in apartment living.

The Bullmastiff breed is prone to hip dysphasia.  If you are buying a puppy go to a reputable breeder.  Make sure the puppy’s hips have been x-rayed.  Make sure his parents are OFA certified.  This will lessen the chance your puppy will develop hip dysphasia.

You will need to feed your Bullmastiff puppy a food that is high in protein and calcium.  This is necessary because a Bullmastiff grows to be such a large dog.  A Bullmastiff puppy needs to be fed 3 times a day until he is around 3 months old.  When he is 3 months old feed him twice a day.  Be sure you feed your Bullmastiff a high quality healthy diet.  Do not over feed your puppy.  This will put too much stress on his fast growing joints and bones.

Bullmastiff puppies need exercise but do not let them over exercise.  They should not be allowed to run up and down the stairs until they are at least 1 year old.  Check your puppy’s feet and legs often so you can detect any problems that might be developing.  They grow so fast and their bodies become so massive they sometimes develop leg and foot problems.

Before you get a Bullmastiff make sure you have the time to care for him.  Bullmastiffs require a lot of your time.

Do not feed your Bullmastiff leftover people food.  Bullmastiffs are prone to developing several illnesses.  They are kidney problems, cardiac disease, tumors and several others.  They can develop digestive problems that can be pretty severe.  Bull mastiffs can develop eye problems so you must make sure their eyes are kept clean and mucus free.  You must do this so they do not develop eye infections. 

Bullmastiffs are usually full grown when they reach 2 years of age.  When they reach their full growth they can become obese very easily.  You must watch your dog’s calorie intake because you want to avoid your Bullmastiff getting too heavy.  Watch your Bullmastiffs food intake and keep him healthy and happy. 

Do not bathe your Bullmastiff unless absolutely necessary.  Baths will dry his skin and hair.  He might develop sores and they will get infected from all of his starching.  Food allergies will also cause sores and scratching.

You must start socializing your Bullmastiff puppy when he is very young.  You must get him used to people and other animals at an early age.  You can take your puppy to socialization and obedience classes.  These are very good to get your puppy used to different situations.  Bullmastiffs are very good with children.  When small children play with a Bullmastiff or any dog they must be supervised.  A Bullmastiff is a devoted and loving dog breed.  They make fabulous pets if properly cared for and trained.

Article sources:

http://www.howtodothings.com

http://www.memrabull.com