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 owners: the diagnosis, the options, the cost, and the...
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Health
Hot days make me extra mindful of my Bullmastiffs — their size, thick heads...
Health
I check my dogs' mouths almost every day. Not because they enjoy it, but...
Training
Bringing a newborn into a home with a Bullmastiff is one of those life events...
Health
I’ve spent decades watching Bullmastiffs move through life — from bounding,...
When you’re raising a working Bullmastiff — whether he’s a family guardian, a scent-detection trainee, or a farm helper — nutrition is never an afterthought. Over the years with Shadowguard Bullmastiffs I’ve fed many diets, worked...
Summer in the UK means long walks, muddy fields and, for some of my Bullmastiffs, an increased risk of hot spots. Over the years at Shadowguard Bullmastiffs, I’ve learned that a few simple, consistent habits prevent many painful flare-ups — and...
Road trips and dog shows are two of my favorite ways to spend time with my Bullmastiffs, but both demand preparation — and a reliable emergency kit is non-negotiable. Over years of breeding, training and rescuing Bullmastiffs, I’ve learned that...
I’ve worked with senior Bullmastiffs for decades, and few things are more important — and more delicate — than keeping an older mastiff moving without worsening joint pain. Over the years at Shadowguard Bullmastiffs I’ve guided owners,...
Bringing a new Bullmastiff into a home that already has cats and small dogs can be one of the most rewarding — and nerve-racking — experiences you’ll go through as an owner. Over the years I’ve introduced several of my own Bullmastiffs to...
I spend a lot of time watching Bullmastiffs — in my kennel, at rescue, and in homes where I help new owners settle in. Over the years I’ve learned that understanding a Bullmastiff’s body language is one of the quickest ways to build trust and...
Bullmastiffs are wonderfully affectionate, but those generous rolls of skin—especially around the face, neck and tail—require regular attention. Over the years I’ve learned that a small, consistent routine prevents a lot of heartache: fewer...
I’ll never forget the first time I suspected bloat in one of my Bullmastiffs. It was late at night, he was restless, pacing between the kitchen and the bedroom, standing with a strange, uncomfortable posture, and then began to retch without...
When a rescue Bullmastiff first arrives at my home, I treat the situation like caring for someone who’s just left a storm. They’re often exhausted, confused and guarded. Over years of rescue and rehoming work I’ve honed a practical,...
I’ve trained dozens of Bullmastiffs to come back when called in parks, streets and busy beaches. It’s one of the most rewarding — and sometimes frustrating — parts of responsible ownership. Bullmastiffs are intelligent, independent and...