Why was the Bullmastiff breed developed?
Originally Bullmastiffs were a combination of 40% English Bulldog and 60% English Mastiff. They were bred specifically to accompany gamekeepers on their rounds, being able to track well and having sufficient size and strength to tackle and overpower a poacher. In the late 1800s, poaching of game on large estates was commonplace with poachers prepared to kill the gamekeeper rather than face the death penalty if they were caught. The game keeper needed a tough brave dog that could wait silently in the dark for the poacher to approach and then bring the offender down so he could be apprehended. The Bullmastiff was quick, strong and courageous enough to attack on command and hold the poacher yet not maul him.
