Bullmastiff Lifespan: Average Life Expectancy and More!

You’re planning to welcome a dog into your family and fell madly in love with bullmastiffs thanks to their trademark leisurely lumbering around the house. These massive guard dogs have comically oversized, pug-like heads and are affectionate. But how long can you expect them to be a part of your life and household? Keep reading to learn about the lifespan of a bullmastiff, common health issues, exercise needs, and fun facts about this zany breed!

A Beloved Behemoth: Bullmastiff Overview

The byproduct of breeding mastiffs and bulldogs, the bullmastiff is a large, loyal, and powerful breed. Originally, gamekeepers created these oversized dogs to help protect large country estates and game preserves in mid-to-late 19^th century England. With the winning mastiff and bulldog combination, bullmastiffs were created specifically to be powerful, fast, and courageous.

Bullmastiffs come in various colors, grow as tall as 27 inches high at the shoulders, and can reach a weight of up to 130 pounds, according to The American Kennel Club (AKC). These gentle giants make great family dogs despite their background in protection. Their docile behavior and calm demeanor make them an excellent candidate for smaller homes and apartments, an uncommon trait for such large-breed dogs.

What Is the Average Life Expectancy for a Bullmastiff?

You already know your family needs one of these slobbery, furry soulmates, but don’t forget that dog ownership is a responsibility. When welcoming home a new, wiggly family member, it’s crucial to consider their various care needs and how long they’ll be a part of your life. So, how long do bullmastiffs live? The average life expectancy of a bullmastiff is 7-9 years.

Sadly, the bullmastiff ranks fourth in the top 10 dogs with the shortest lifespans. While larger animals in the wild typically have longer lives than smaller species, the opposite is currently true for domesticated animals, such as dogs. In a 2020 interview with Psychology Today, Professor Mark Elgar of the University of Melbourne’s School of Biosciences shares that larger dogs age more quickly, which is why they have shorter lifespans than their smaller relatives.  

Unleash the Secret to a Long, Healthy Life

Unfortunately, these lovable lugs don’t have the longest lifespans, but there are ways to help ensure your pooch is set up for as long and healthy a life as possible.

Be Prepared

First, if you are purchasing a bullmastiff, ensure you’re supporting an ethical breeder and gather as much health information from them as possible about your dog’s family lineage and any genetic testing. Conversely, if you’re adopting from a rescue or shelter, consider purchasing a DNA test that screens for various potential health issues.

Consult the Experts

Additionally, it’s important to schedule annual veterinary checkups for your dog. Follow your vet’s recommendations regarding any tests they think need to be run, diet for large-breed dogs, weight management, and exercise.

Provide Your Pooch with an Active Life

While these lovable and lumbering dogs enjoy snuggling on the couch, they still need physical and mental exercise. Take them for regular short walks and consider introducing them to various enrichment games or toys.

Canine Cardio: Healthy Activities That Are Perfect for Bullmastiffs

Even though bullmastiffs are considered the 9^th laziest dog breed, a long, healthy life requires regular activity. An idle lifestyle is the easiest way to reduce an already too-short lifespan. While they may want to stay home from your next long hike, consider short daily walks or sniffaris. Additionally, registering for a weekly obedience class is a great way to keep you both active and mentally challenged. Finally, load up your pup anytime you need to make a trip to any of these dog-friendly stores.

Common Health Issues for Bullmastiffs

Fortunately, bullmastiffs are relatively healthy dogs. Additionally, with the added information from your breeder or DNA testing, you should be able to prepare for many health conditions you and your furry friend may face. The three most common health concerns for bullmastiff owners are:

Hip Dysplasia

This genetic condition can be somewhat common for larger dogs. Hip dysplasia occurs when the hip bone doesn’t properly cradle the dog’s thigh bone. Because it can be passed down from parents, please talk with your breeder about hip dysplasia in their family lines. Unfortunately, no genetic testing is available for hip dysplasia. If you’ve adopted your bullmastiff, discuss immobility issues with your veterinarian and explore whether a hip radiograph should be done.

Heat Stroke and Heat Exhaustion

An active lifestyle can help extend your bullmastiff’s lifespan but use caution when exercising your dog during warmer months. Due to their short muzzles, bullmastiffs are more prone to suffering from heat exhaustion and stroke. Avoid high temps by walking your pup earlier or early in the evening.

Hypothyroidism

Finally, the last health condition to know about is hypothyroidism. A thyroid hormone deficiency causes this condition. Symptoms of hypothyroidism include lethargy, obesity, and infertility. Unfortunately, dogs with hypothyroidism will require life-long medication.

Fun Facts About These Massive Slobber Machines

Still on the fence about whether a bullmastiff is the right dog for you? Never fear! These fun facts about our beloved behemoths will help you decide that your life has been missing a bullmastiff:

• Bullmastiffs were ranked one of the coolest dog breeds in 2022, thanks to their adorably wrinkled faces, making them appear like oversized pugs.

• Light sleeper? You may struggle to get a good night’s sleep with snoring echoing through your halls. Bullmastiffs were ranked number six in our list of dogs who snore the most!

• Yo, Adrian! If Rocky understood how amazing bullmastiffs are, so can you! Butkus appeared in Rocky and Rocky II and belonged to Sylvester Stallone!

• There are only two canine NFL mascots, and one is a bullmastiff! The Cleveland Browns rally behind Chomps the Bullmastiff, and the team’s fan base is the Dawg Pound.

• Their slobber is worse than their bark AND bite. These guard dogs were originally bred to track quietly and corner poachers who were illegally trespassing. Even now, bullmastiffs prefer not to bark or bite.

Embark on a Journey Full of Drooling, Snoring, and Love

Whether you’re a solo bachelor looking for a little extra company or a bubbly family ready to grow by four paws, you’ll find a great companion in a bullmastiff. While these lovable pooches may have a short life expectancy, they more than make up for it with love and loyalty. Get out there and cherish one of these furry friends as much as you can and for as long as you can!

The photo featured at the top of this post is © iStock.com/Wavetop