The Bullmastiff Character:

Breathes there the man with soul so dead
Who never to himself hath said
Look at that fine, that noble head!
       BULLMASTIFF!

Need you a guard, an honest friend,
One who will serve you to the end.
With loyalty that naught can bend?
        BULLMASTIFF!

Mark how that great, that noble hound,
Whose brow is knit in the thoughts profound,
Is always in his habits, sound
        BULLMASTIFF!

A friend to you, he knows no fear,
An honest fellow, conscience clear,
A dog that you will hold most dear,
        BULLMASTIFF!

    The Bullmastiff is a strong and powerfully built animal that possesses great intelligence and a willingness to please, making them ideal family companions and protectors.  Although large, the breed remains both agile and active and is successful in conformation, obedience, agility, tracking, carting and therapy work.  The Bullmastiff's coat may be red, fawn or brindle.

     The Bullmastiff's known history in England begins around 1860, when they were developed to keep large estates and game preserves free of poachers.  Gameskeepers needed a dog that could track quietly, cover short distances quickly and pin and hold poachers without mauling them.  The foundation breeding was 60% Mastiff and 40% Bulldog; breeders were hoping to create a dog faster and more aggressive than the Mastiff, yet bigger than and not as ferocious as the Bulldog. 

   The Bullmastiff is fearless and confident, yet remains docile and sweetnatured with his family.  They are natural guardians of the home, but do not bark much, as silence was a virtue when guarding estates.  Bullmastiffs are indepenent thinkers and may not respond to traditional obedience training.  The breed does not require much exercise or grooming, and can live happily in a house or an apartment. 

                                                                                                       

American Kennel Club