What was the Bullmastiff originally bred to do?
The breed was originally trained to track down poachers, but was trained to intimidate, rather than attack. Early Bullmastiffs were bred for utility and work rather than their looks. They did their work at night and their dark coat color was bred for this work; they were nicknamed the “Gamekeeper’s Night-Dog.” As poaching began to disappear, the Bullmastiff was more in demand as a guard dog and the lighter brown color became popular. Looks became important for breeders, and they focused on creating a beautiful dog that was established as a pure breed in 1924 by the English kennel club The original Bullmastiffs were fierce and threatening, but were trained not to bite the intruders. The modern day breed also has a very gentle, fiercely protective streak. Because of this breeding, the Bullmastiff is both a masterful watchdog and a friendly family companion.
