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                                 BULLMASTIFFS
                                       
Author

   Nancy Milinkovich, theo92@bnr.ca
   Copyright 1996, all rights reserved. You may download and print a copy
   for your personal use; for further distribution you must have written
   permission from the author.
   
   Club names and breeder information were in part provided by the
   information given out by the American Bullmastiff Association, INC.
   
   Additions, corrections, and suggestions all welcomed.
   
   Thanks to Jon Dawson for providing materials on the standard, etc.
     _________________________________________________________________
   
Table of Contents

   
     _________________________________________________________________
   
Breed Purpose

   Originally Bullmastiffs were a combination of 40% English Bulldog and
   60% English Mastiff. They were bred specifically to accompany
   gamekeepers on their rounds, being able to track well and having
   sufficient size and strength to tackle and overpower a poacher.
   
   They are classified as a Working Dog. The English Bulldog from which
   the Bullmastiff is bred from was quite different from today's modern
   version. The English Bulldog of the 19th century was a more athletic
   dog than many of today's, although the loyal and calm temperments are
   still the same.
     _________________________________________________________________
   
Description

   The Standard describes the physical properties of the ideal
   Bullmastiff. Because of copyright concerns over the collection of all
   Standards at any single site storing all the faqs, AKC Standards are
   not typically included in the breed faqs. The National Breed Club can
   provide the reader with a copy of the Standard.
     _________________________________________________________________
   
Breed Characteristics

   They present an aristocratic, attentive and intelligent look. The
   Bullmastiff is distinguished from the English Mastiff by its smaller
   size and more compact face.
   
   They have been described as: intelligent, loyal, stubborn, laid back,
   family oriented, stoic, and even-tempered. Bullmastiffs rarely bark
   unless there is a reason. There is a minimal amount of slobbering
   associated with a Bullmastiff, usually after eating or drinking. They
   are a dog that requires consistent and fair training. They do not take
   well to being bullied into something but will accept leadership.
   Obedience work with Bullmastiffs can be challenging as they are
   independent thinkers, but once learned it sticks!
   
   The Bullmastiff seems to be very easy-going and as such tends to
   integrate well with other dogs. But as with any breed, you should
   start socialization early. Puppy kindergarten type situations are
   definitely recommended. As far as the Bullmastiff's relationship to
   other animals (other than dogs) I can only draw on my own experience;
   my Bullmastiff is extremely gentle with cats, birds, hamsters, etc.
   (can anyone else give me any info?). I have heard from others that
   size rather than aggressiveness is often more an issue when being
   around other animals. Often Bullmastiffs don't realize their size and
   can hurt a smaller dog, or cat, with rough-house play.
   
   In relationship to people, Bullmastiffs tend to be one family dogs.
   They bond extremely close with "their" people and can be suspicious of
   strangers. Early puppy interaction with lots of different people is
   key to overcoming potential problems due to this trait. Believe it or
   not Bullmastiffs can be quite cuddly and demonstrative. They must be
   integrated as a member of the family. I would say they are not very
   suitable for being an outdoor dog.
   
   Bullmastiffs are also very good with children. Their easy going nature
   and calmness, tend to make them able to tolerate the energy of younger
   kids. But again, due to their size constant parental supervision is
   required.
   
   They are a naturally protective dog. They have a suspicious nature in
   regards to strangers and "size" people up. Sufficient socialization is
   extremely important due to this fact. They also naturally "guard"
   their family members. Bullmastiffs are constantly attentive and
   curious about their surroundings and will be alarmed if any danger is
   perceived to their pack. These two factors make, in my opinion,
   on-going training and early puppy socialization, all important.
   Without it, Bullmastiffs can become over-protective and
   over-aggressive towards strangers and other dogs, etc.
   
   Bullmastiffs do not tend to tolerate LARGE variances in temperature.
   They do not like extreme heat or extreme cold. I have heard from
   people that some Bullmastiffs do like the snow.
     _________________________________________________________________
   
Exercise Requirements

   The Bullmastiff is not a high-energy dog. One longish walk every day
   should take care of required excercise. But play sessions, trips to
   exciting places and other highlights should be incorporated as they
   will otherwise tend to get bored.
   
   NOTE: Bullmastiffs do tend to have a high tolerance for pain and often
   will not complain about discomfort until the condition is quite bad.
     _________________________________________________________________
   
Suitability for Working People

   The Bullmastiff seems to tolerate being left alone well, and would fit
   into a family where both parties are working. Although it should be
   noted that any puppy will require someone coming home during the
   afternoon.
   
   Please note that puppies of any breed are a LOT of work and require
   without a doubt, time, energy and love. On average a puppy requires at
   least 4 hours per day and probably more if you are into any type of
   training.
     _________________________________________________________________
   
Grooming Requirements

   Bullmastiffs are a short-haired dog which have minimal shedding. The
   brushes I have found that work the best are: rubber palm brushes used
   in a circular motion to lift out dead hair and bring the oil to the
   surface followed by a slicker brush to trap the hair. A grooming
   session at least once a week should be sufficient.
   
   Ear cleaning is a must as is nail clipping.
   
   Would recommend teeth cleaning using an enzymatic toothpaste.
     _________________________________________________________________
   
Specific Health Problems

  HIP DYSPLASIA
  
   As with any large to very large breed, hip dysplasia is a problem.
   Suggestions are to make sure that both parents and grand-parents have
   been screened for hip dyplasia, either vet-cleared or OFA-cleared.
   
  OSTEOCHONDRITIS DESSICANS
  
   OCD "osteochondritis dessicans" - in the elbow can be particularly
   bad. They now OFA elbows.
   
  HYPOTHYROIDISM
  
   Hypo-thyroidism - this can cause many problems and you should ask
   about this in parents and grand-parents. Although it can be controlled
   with medication I would not knowingly buy a puppy or dog at risk for
   this disease.
   
  EYE PROBLEMS
  
   Can develop problems with the bottom lid poking through; this can be
   corrected with surgery. Also a problem is eyelashes growing inside the
   eyelid. This can be corrected with surgery. The symptoms are: puffy
   eyes with discharge, eyes that look half closed.
   
  RENAL FAILURE
  
   Probably mostly due to the hypo-thyroid condition if it is present.
   
  LYMPHOMA SARCOMA
  
   Have talked to some Bullmastiff breeders who are seeing an alarming
   trait in some lines with the development of lymphoma sarcoma. I would
   talk with the breeder to make sure that this trend did not exist in
   past litters of both parents and grand-parents.
   
  SUMMARY
  
   While this seems like a large list it should be remembered that the
   occurrences of some of the above conditions is rare. Hip dysplasia
   probably being the most common condition. As far as the breed as a
   whole, my vet has said it has very few commonly occuring medical
   problems as far as her vet science books are concerned.
     _________________________________________________________________
   
Resources

  UNITED STATES
  
   American Bullmastiff Association
          Pres: Peter Aczel, 1380 Masi Rd., Quakertown, PA 18951-5221
          
          Secretary: MaryAnne Duchin (1995-1997), P.O. Box 37, Dayton, KY
          41074; 606-291-3127
          
   ABA National Rescue/Information
          Barbara Brooks-Worrell, 9840 South 222nd St., Kent, WA 98031;
          (206) 850-6319
          
   Rescue/Central
          Linda Thompson, P.O. Box 399, Conifer, CO 80433; (303)
          697-0547; FAX (303) 697-5089
          
          Kelli Johnsen, P.O. Box 1902, Manhattan, KS 66502-0022;
          (913)539-5741
          
   Southern (including TX)
          Anna Williamson, 934 North San Jose, Abilene, TX 79603; (915)
          677-7635
          
   Eastern
          Anne Lewis, Rt. 1 Box 2475, Berryville, VA 22611 ; (540)
          955-2562
          
  CANADA
  
   Bullmastiff Fanciers of Canada
          Amy Hayward, RR #6 Woodstock, New Brunswick, Canada, E0J 2B0;
          Ph. 506-325-2658; Fax 506-328-0802
          
  CLUBS
  
   Bullmastiffs of NO. California
          Connie Urbanski, President, Patricia J. Potter, Secretary, 1957
          Everwood Court, San Jose, CA
          
   California Bullmastiff Fanciers
          Carol Beans, President, Mona Lindau-Webb, Secretary, 1934 South
          Holt Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90034
          
   Delware Valley Bullmastiff Club
          Adele Millett, President, Helma Weeks, Secretary, 133 Chase
          Avenue, Iveyland, PA 18974
          
   Eastern Atlantic Bullmstiff Association
          Roxanne LaPaglia, President, June Moeller, Secretary, Box 69,
          Rohersville, MD 21779
          
   Glass City Bullmastiff Fanciers
          David Schwieterman, President, Zoe Murphy, Secretary, 7326
          Starlight Rd, Perrysburg, OH 43551
          
   Great NY Bullmastiff Fanciers
          Pam Kochuba, President, Jude E. Newton, Secretary, 517 Commack
          Road, Islip, NY 11751
          
   Heart of America Bullmastiff Fanciers
          Lance Wright, President, Izetta Wright, Secretary, 215 St. and
          69 Hwy, Bucyrus, KS 66013
          
   Midwest Bullmastiff Fanciers
          Ben Baratto, President, Linda Haskett, Secretary, 514 South 700
          East, Marion, IN 46952
          
   Northwest Bullmastiff Society
          Mark Worrell, President, Laura Doll, Secretary, 9840 S. 222nd
          St., Kent, WA 98031; (206)850-6319
          
   New England Bullmastiff Association
          David Gomes, President, Cynthia Sellitto, Secretary, 147 Janet
          Dr., East Hartford, CT 06118
          
   Piedmont Bullmastiff Club of Greater Washington
          Greg Swain, President, Sue Andrews, Secretary, 14040 Esworthy
          Rd., Germantown, MD 20874-3312
          
   Southeastern Bullmastiff Enthusiasts
          Andrea Jiles, President, Jane Fleming, Secretary, 2587
          Willowbrook Circle, Birmingham, AL 35242
          
   Southwest Bullmastiff Club
          Don Topper, President, Vickie Miller, Secretary, 3700 Hialeah
          Dr., Arlington, TX 76017
          
  BREEDERS (ABA) (UNITED STATES)
  
   
          
   Dr. John G. & Susan M. Crawford
          DOX Bullmastiffs
          505 N. Ridgeland Avenue, Oak Park, Illinois 60302; (708)
          524-9788 (815) 673-2068; e-mail: john.crawford@aquila.com
          
   Lea Reuter
          Sound Off Bullmastiffs
          11605 Pythian Cave Road, Yreka, CA 96097; (916)436-2578
          
   Helene Neitsch
          Banstock Bullmastiffs
          14 Dodgingtown Road, Newtown, CT 06470; (203)426-8194
          
   Pam Kochuba
          Shady Oak Bullmastiffs
          52 Walnut Tree Hill, Sandy Hook, CT 06484; (203)426-7735
          
   Karen Skiba
          Avonlea Bullmastiffs
          46 Vista Drive, Danbury, CT 06810; (203)743-0880
          
   Chris Lezotte and Alan Kalter
          Happylegs Bullmastiffs
          6283 Hellner Road, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48105; 313-741-7326
          
   Crossbow Bullmastiffs
          Mickey & Dick Mullen
          3899 Kingston Oaks Cove, Oviedo, FL 32765; (407)365-6760
          
   Crossbow Bullmastiffs
          Reyna & David Blasko
          3493 Soda Canyon Rd., Napa, CA 94558; (707)252-8850
          
   Allstar
          Mimi Einstein
          377 Mt. Holly Rd., Katonah, NY 10536; (914)232-9166
          
   Bullmast
          Patricia O'Brien
          1012 Dolores Dr., Fullerton, CA 92633; (714)870-5235
          
   Sedentary
          Kathy McAlister
          Box 549, Hayden, CO 81639; (303)276-3196
          
   Tauralan
          Carol Beans
          12131 Arroyo Ave., Santa Ana, CA 92705; (714)544-1824
          
   Torous
          Bud & Pauline Smith
          Box 1415, Oakhurst, CA 93644; (209)683-8537
          
   Wild Heart
          Taun Brooks
          56372 Paseo Las Ninas, Yucca Valley, CA 92284; (619)369-2400
          
   Wild West
          Brian & Tracy Ferrick
          15455 Rockwood Rd., Escondido, CA 92027; (619)745-5756
          
   Wakulla Bullmastiffs
          Gail & Scott Lucas
          203 Mullis St. , North Augusta, S.C. 29841; 803-593-2823; ABA &
          SEBA
          
   Joyce Nelson
          113 Winifred Rd., Landsdown, MD 21227; 410-242-1961
          
   Merry Johnson
          11824 Harford Rd., Glen Arm, Md. 21057; 410-592-2859
          
   Melkev's Bullmastiffs
          Melinda Agee
          2808 Greenbriar Rd, Mt. Washington KY 40047; 502-538-8822
          
  CANADIAN BREEDERS
  
   Mike and Cheryl Kelter
          Blackmoor Perm Reg'd
          15412-84th Ave, Surrey, B.C., V3S 2N4; (604) 597-5205; E-Mail-
          mkelter@direct.ca
          
   Sylvia and Roy Lawton
          Kinanama Kennels
          17318 24th. Ave., Whiterock, BC V4B 5E7; (604)531-3895;
          (604)889-6836
          
   Nytestok Reg'd Bullmastiffs
          Amy & Lanson Hayward
          RR #6 Woodstock, New Brunswick, Canada, E0J 2B0; PH
          506-325-2658; FAX 506-328-0802
          
   Crimsontyde Bullmastiffs
          Larry Christie
          RR6, Site 11, Barrie, Ont, L4M 5P5; PH 705-436 1960; FAX
          705-436 7533; e-mail christie@bconnex.net
          
  DANISH INFORMATION
  
   Danish Bullmastiff Club
          Sandbjergvej 44, DK-2950 Vedbfk, Phone 45 42892843; President,
          Mr. Frank Hansen
          
          Magazine: DBC-News
          Tornbjergvej 26, P.o. Box 6, DK-4130 Viby Sj., Phone 45
          56821116, Fax 45 56820175, Editor, Mr. Henrik Hyttel Eriksen;
          E-mail HYTTEL@msn.com
          
   Breeders reg. in DBC:
   
   ASETHOR
          Mxnstedvej 28, Grxnhxj, DK-7470 Karup
          
   BEDSTE
          Lis Lingskov
          Kamillavej 4, DK-4593 Eskebjerg
          
   BIG BULLS
          Johnny L. Pedersen
          Mxllevej 130, DK-3630 Jfgerspris
          
   BRAKS
          Erik & Elin Madsen
          Favrbovej 22, DK-4591 Fxllenslev
          
   BULLGERDENS
          Bill L. Strand
          Skovbakken 9 DK-3630 Jfgerspris
          
   BULLSTONES
          Bente & Ralph Smidt
          Nebyvej 9, DK-4160 Herlufmagle
          
   DOWNLANDS
          Henrik Hyttel Eriksen
          Tornbjergvej 26, P.O. Box 6, DK-4130 Viby Sj.
          
   DROT
          Rune & Helle Johnsen
          Langgade 30, DK-9000 Aalborg
          
   FARMER DOGS
          Bente & Ronnie Petersen
          Gammelrand 10, DK-4470 Svebxlle
          
   KIALIXIS
          Johnny Jonasson
          Bogensevej 154, DK-5471 Soendersoe
          
   *NOTE: I am not guaranteeing the quality or honesty of any of these
   breeders, you should contact them directly and also call the local
   club for references.
   
   (If anyone would like to provide more breeders names please feel free
   to contact me via e-mail at theo92@bnr.ca)
   
  BOOKS/MAGAZINES, ETC
  
   Oliff, Douglas B. The Mastiff and Bullmastiff Handbook. Published by:
   Howell Book House, INC. 230 Park Avenue New York, NY 10169 U.S.A ISBN
   #0 85115 485 9.
   
   Beans, Carol and Adele Pfenninger. A Practical Guide to the
   Bullmastiff. (Carol Beans # (714) 544-1824)
   
   Beans, Carol. Bullseye.
   
   Hoflin Publishing (Colorado). Bullmastiff Annual.
   
   Hubbard, Clifford L.B. The Bullmastiff. Published by: Nimrod Press 15
   The Maltings Turk Street Alton Hants, GU34 1 DL ENGLAND.
   
   Walkey, Bill. The Bullmastiff Fancier's Manual. Published By: Coast
   Arts Publishing P.O. Box 363 Sechelt, B.C. CANADA V0N 1V0.
     _________________________________________________________________
   
   
    Bullmastiff FAQ
    Nancy Milinkovich, theo92@bnr.ca
