The Bullmastiff is very powerfully built, but not cumbersome, with a broad wrinkled head and fairly short, square, dark muzzle (about 1/3 the length of the whole head). The nose is black with large nostrils. The dark hazel, medium-sized eyes should have an alert, intelligent expression. The v-shaped wide-set ears are pendant and dark colored. The teeth should meet in a level or slightly undershot bite. The short back is straight and level between the withers and the loin. The tapering tail is set high and reaches to the hocks. The short, slightly rough coat comes in brindle, fawn, or red, often with black markings on the head.
This is a 1924 breed obtained by crossing Mastiffs with Bulldogs in the country of England. The Bullmastiff was used as a gamekeeper's dog to track down, tackle and hold poachers. The dogs were fierce and threatening, but were trained not to bite the intruders. When the need for gamekeeper's dogs decreased, the dark brindle dogs so good for night camouflage gave way in popularity to the lighter fawn coloration. It has been prized as a hunting guard, as an aid in army and police work, and is used as a watchdog by the Diamond Society of South Africa. Today's Bullmastiff is a reliable family companion and guardian. It enjoys living with the family, with whom it comforts itself well.