One of the most common calls I get from owners is: "My Bullmastiff is bored and destructive — what can I do?" Over the years I've learned that a deliberate, breed-specific enrichment rotation does more than stop chewing and digging; it builds confidence, channels natural drives, and strengthens...
Read more...
Training
I’ve fed entire litters and groups of adult Bullmastiffs for decades, and one...
Training
I once had a visitor freeze in my doorway while my Bullmastiff, Hektor, let out...
Health
I’ve spent decades living with and caring for Bullmastiffs, and one hard...
Health
I’ve treated and rehabilitated a fair number of Bullmastiffs with cruciate...
I’ve spent decades living with and caring for Bullmastiffs, and one hard lesson I’ve learned is that these dogs are masters at hiding pain. Their stoic nature and strong bond with their people mean they’ll often mask discomfort until it...
I’ve treated and rehabilitated a fair number of Bullmastiffs with cruciate ligament injuries over the years, both dogs I’ve bred and those I’ve taken in through rescue. It’s one of those injuries that can be confusing and frightening for...
Hot days make me extra mindful of my Bullmastiffs — their size, thick heads and short muzzles mean they can overheat faster than many people expect. Over the years at Shadowguard, I’ve tested and adapted a range of cooling strategies that work...
I check my dogs' mouths almost every day. Not because they enjoy it, but because with Bullmastiffs — powerful, stoic, and prone to specific dental issues — early detection makes all the difference. Over the years I’ve learned how small changes...
Bringing a newborn into a home with a Bullmastiff is one of those life events that fills you with awe and a fair bit of nervous energy. Over the years I’ve guided many families through this transition, and every time I’m reminded that...
I’ve spent decades watching Bullmastiffs move through life — from bounding, goofy youngsters to the dignified, sometimes creaky seniors who’ve taught me the most about joint care. Picking the right joint supplement isn’t just about buying...
I often meet owners who are worried because their Bullmastiff has crept past a healthy weight. I’ve been there myself—one of my own dogs came back from a rehoming with a noticeable “softness” around the ribs and hips. Over the years I’ve...
When you're looking for a Bullmastiff puppy, finding a responsible breeder is the single most important step you can take to protect the health and temperament of the dog you bring into your home. Over decades of breeding, training and rescue work...
I still remember the day ShadowGuard — a pale-fawn Bullmastiff with tired eyes and a body that had clearly known neglect — arrived at my door. He wasn’t the first dog I’d taken in for rehabilitation, but his condition and his guarded...
As a breeder and lifelong caretaker of Bullmastiffs, I’ve seen hips that move like well-oiled gates and hips that complain at the slightest provocation. Hip issues are common in our breed, and while genetics and veterinary care are central, a...