The Bullmastiff is one of the largest of all purebred dogs. He is sedate in his role as caretaker and alert in his original role as guardian and protector. Originally used as a gamekeepers dog (or otherwise known as the keeper's night dog), they were bred to chase and knock down an intruder and hold down without mauling, until such time as their owners released them. They are British in Origin, and was originally a cross between Bulldog and Mastiff. The Bulldog was chosen for its speed, tenacity and ferocity, the Mastiff for his size, weight and power. The Bullmastiff was first recognised as a breed in 1924.

He is one of the most affectionate and responsive canines known to man. In his deep desire for human companionship, he will cheerfully tolerate an incredible amount of abuse from toddlers and tots but is intelligent enough however, to recognise that he need not accept this from adults.

The Bullmastiff is a working dog and is happiest when he has a jog to do. He is not a �ne man"dog and loves all the family equal. His personality is stable, steady animal, completely lacking in excitablility. He is intelligent and willing to learn. They adore children but the midnight prowler has alot to worry about. Bullmastiffs will usually only bark when there is something worth looking at.