GENERAL APPEARANCE
Shoulder height: 61-68.5cm (24”-27”).
Colour: Brindle, red or fawn with black masks.
Coat: Short, hard, close and weather resisting.
Gait: Fore and hindlegs move straight forward with good hind propulsion. Strength and power are essential characteristics in the Bullmastiff but not to the point of becoming too cumbersome. The heads are large with shorter square broad muzzles. The dark eyes have a docile expression and the ears which are set high, hang close to the cheeks. The back is strong and straight and the high set tail is carried out when moving. The hindquarters are moderately angulated and the feet are catlike in shape. 
CHARACTERISTICS AND CARE
Bullmastiffs combine high spirits, reliability, endurance and alertness.
Weighing up to 60kg (l30lb) these dogs are not suitable children’s pets, however as a family companion they are both lovable, trustworthy and show strong guarding instincts. They only bark to attract attention so the causes always should be investigated. Being slow to mature physically, Bullmastiffs need plenty of calcium and vitamins up to 18 months of age. Coat care is minimal and only periodic brushing is required.
HISTORY
With poaching rife in Britain during the 17th and 18th centuries, gamekeepers found the Mastiffs too slow and cumbersome to be effective deterrents. As Bulldogs in those days were more active and agile but too small to bring a poacher to the ground, gamekeepers found the answer crossing the Mastiff with the Bulldog. The result was that the gamekeepers got a dog who retained the desired size and strength but with increased agility. While serving their purpose, Bullmastiffs, as they became known, varied greatly in appearance. It was not until 1924 when enough conformity in type was established, that they warranted breed registration in Britain.