The bullmastiff originates from crossings between english bulldog and old english mastiffs, and paintings from the middle of the 1800's show dogs similar to today's breed.
The bullmastiff was created to chase down and hold poachers, illegal hunters who a growing problem in Britain at the time. To be able to do this job, the dog had to have a strong guarding instinct but lack hunting instinct. These dogs were once known as 'night dogs' since they worked during the night, but 'bullmastiff' was also a name also used early.
The bullmastiff was recognized in England in 1924. Today it is quite a bit calmer than it once was, and makes a good pet, but is still a formidable watchdog.
The bullmastiff is a powerful, strong and healthy breed. The skull is large and square shaped with marked stop and short muzzle. The ears are small and v-shaped, and help build up the head's square shape. The neck is of medium length, arched and muscular. The body has a short and straight back with broad, deep chest, well lowered between the shoulders and rear.