Understanding how long Bullmastiffs live is an important consideration for potential owners of this beloved breed.
This is especially the case when considering the various health issues common with this breed. So how long do Bullmastiffs live?
The average life expectancy of a bullmastiff is between 8 and 10 years. Some may live as long as 12 or 13 years, but this is very rare. On record, the oldest Bullmastiff was a female named “Rosie,” who lived to be a whopping 17 years old!
While there are various health issues common with this breed, there are also many ways to enhance the lifespan of a Bullmastiff.
Here are nine essential things to keep in mind if you want your Bullmastiff to live a long and healthy life:
Bullmastiff breeding and genetics
A Bullmastiffs parents are an essential factor in determining how long they will live. For example, certain diseases are genetically inherited by the parents of Bullmastiffs, which then can be passed on to their pups.
Therefore, it is vital that you only buy bullmastiff puppies from breeders who have health tested both the sire and the dam of the litter.
Diet and nutrition
Feeding your Bullmastiff a high-quality diet is essential to keeping him healthy and prolonging his life. Look for food specific to large breeds, and make sure your dog always has access to plenty of clean water.
Regular Exercise
Bullmastiffs need plenty of exercise to live a healthy life. A romp in the park or a long walk is perfect, but make sure to avoid strenuous activity immediately after eating.
Remember that overweight dogs don’t live as long as healthy dogs, so take steps to give your Bullmastiff a healthy weight.
You should try to avoid letting your dog become overweight. Obesity can reduce the lifespan of a Bullmastiff by nearly two years!
Receiving proper Veterinary and Health Care
Like people, dogs need regular checkups and preventive care to stay healthy. This includes vaccinations, routine deworming, and tick/flea/heartworm prevention.
In addition, Bullmastiffs should see a veterinarian at least once a year for a complete physical exam.
Brushing their teeth
Dogs need to have their teeth brushed regularly to keep them healthy. This is especially important for bullmastiffs, who are prone to developing periodontal disease.
This can occur as early as two years of age, so it’s important to start brushing your dog’s teeth as soon as possible.
Giving them plenty of toys and things to chew on.
Bulldogs (including bullmastiffs) are prone to developing dental problems if they don’t have things to chew on. This is because they like to chew on things to relieve boredom or stress.
Provide your Bullmastiff with plenty of toys and chew bones to keep his teeth healthy and free from plaque and tartar.
Environmental Factors
Even if you provide your Bullmastiff with a good diet, health care, and plenty of exercise, he may still develop certain conditions that are beyond your control.
These environmental factors can affect the length of your dog’s lifespan. For example, living in an area with extreme weather conditions (hot or cold) can shorten his life.
Living with other animals
If you have other animals in your home, your Bullmastiff will likely live longer than if he lives alone. This is because dogs are social animals and need to be around other creatures to feel content.
Appropriate Mental & Emotional Stimulation
While caring for your dog’s physical health is essential, it’s also necessary to provide him with plenty of mental and emotional stimulation.
This will ensure that he remains happy and healthy as he gets older. Bullmastiffs who don’t get enough stimulation can become bored and destructive. This can lead to them developing behavioral problems, which can shorten their lifespan.
Socialization with other dogs and people
One of the best ways to provide your Bullmastiff with mental and emotional stimulation is to socialize him with other dogs and people. Well-socialized dogs typically have longer lifespans than those who are not.
There are several ways you can do this.
- Take your dog to a training class or on leash walks.
- Enroll him in daycare at the local pet supply store to play with other dogs.
- Try to find a dog buddy for your Bullmastiff. This can be anyone you know, including another dog or even one of your friends.
Just make sure that the friend is willing to meet up with you and your Bullmastiff regularly so they can develop an emotional bond.
Affection and companionship
Along with providing your Bullmastiff with plenty of toys and things to chew on, you should also make sure to give him lots of love. Bullmastiffs are prone to developing depression if they lack companionship. This can lead to them becoming inactive and shortening their lifespan.
Common Health Problems
Bullmastiffs are prone to several health problems, which can shorten their lifespan. Some of the most common health problems include:
Hip dysplasia
This condition affects the hip joint and can cause severe pain. Dogs with hip dysplasia may develop arthritis, which can shorten their lifespan.
Bloat
This is a condition in which the stomach expands and traps air. It can be fatal if not treated immediately. The best way to avoid this condition is to feed your Bullmastiff several small meals per day instead of one large meal.
Cancer
Bullmastiffs are prone to various types of cancer, including lymphoma, mast cell tumors, and osteosarcoma.
The worst is lymphoma, which can be fatal within weeks of diagnosis. Classic symptoms include unexplained weight loss, swollen lymph nodes, and pale gums.
Ear infections
Bullmastiffs are prone to developing ear infections, which can be painful and lead to hearing loss.
Eye problems
Bullmastiffs are also prone to various eye problems, including cataracts, glaucoma, and cherry eye.
Heart disease
Bullmastiffs are prone to developing heart diseases, including cardiomyopathy and subvalvular aortic stenosis.
Pancreatitis
This is an inflammation of the pancreas that can be extremely painful for dogs. In some cases, it can be fatal.
Elbow dysplasia
This is a condition in which the elbow joint does not form properly. Dogs who have it often develop arthritis, which can shorten their lifespan.
Gastric torsion
Also known as bloat, this a condition in which the stomach twists, trapping air and leading to suffocation. It is often fatal.
Skin problems
Bullmastiffs are prone to developing itchy skin, leading to them scratching and damaging their skin. It is especially important to keep their skin healthy in the summer months when they are more likely to get hot spots.
While all of these health problems can shorten a bullmastiff’s lifespan, many of them can be treated if caught early. So make sure to take your dog to the vet for regular checkups.
Final thoughts
In closing, Bullmastiffs can live a healthy life and make great pets for people who have plenty of time to spend with them. They are active dogs who need plenty of stimulation to stay healthy and happy.
They are also prone to several health problems, some of which can shorten their lifespan. However, many of these health problems can be treated if caught early. So always be mindful to take your dog to the vet for regular check-ups.
