There are specific kinds of dog owners out there, some preferring smaller dogs while others prefer much larger breeds. Without a doubt, one of those bigger breeds is the Bullmastiff German Shepherd mix.

If you have been considering getting a Bullmastiff German Shepherd mix, it is important to know all about the breed. Here are some of the most important things that you need to know about this dog mix.

A Couple of Facts about the Bullmastiff German Shepherd Mix

There are a few things that you should know about the origins of the breed that can help you to get a better idea of what kind of dog you are looking at. There are three facts in particular that can do just that.

The first is that the Bullmastiff was bred as a guard dog. Their lineage goes back to the mid-1800s in England, where they were used to protect estates from potential poachers. Gamekeepers bred them for their speed, size, strength, and their tireless working ability.

German Shepherds, on the other hand, are considered to be one of the most versatile breeds around. Throughout their lineage, the German Shepherd has held a number of different jobs. They have chased down bad guys, acted as service dogs, served in the military, herded stock, sniffed out illegal substances, and so much more.

Finally, the mix can come in any number of looks. Even though the breed is large, they can come in different appearances. The Bullmastiff German Shepherd mix can come in black, brindle, fawn, or black and tan. They can also have both short and medium-length coats, including the double coat that traditionally comes with the German Shepherd.

The mix can also have the muscular, sturdy build that traditionally comes with the Bullmastiff, or it can have the leaner, more athletic build that is associated with Shepherds. Their muzzles could be long, short, or something in the middle. The breed can take on the traits of both or either parents’ breed, depending on the dog.

Temperament and Intelligence

Because the breed is so unique and there are so many possibilities about how they can turn out, it can make it quite difficult to predict what kind of temperament they will have. The history and genetics of the purebred parents can play a major role in this factor.

German Shepherds are naturally full of energy and are quite intelligent. The Bullmastiff, meanwhile, is more affectionate and docile by nature.

That said, the two do share traits. Both are quite devoted, courageous, headstrong, and powerful. They make for great family protectors, excellent guard dogs, and great watchers for your property. It is also important to socialize them since they can be naturally wary of strangers.

Great training at the puppy level can turn this mixed breed into a loyal, protective, excellent guardian as well as one of the best companions that you could ask for. Their training, as well as any socialization, can be a great definer of what their temperament will be like.

Does the Bullmastiff German Shepherd Get Along with Other Pets?

If you do plan on having other pets, like cats or other dogs, in the mix, then you need to introduce and acclimate your mix to those animals as puppies. Bullmastiffs, in particular, are not terribly dog friendly, especially with dogs that are their gender.

German Shepherds, on the other hand, tend to get along very well with other animals. They can also be quite adaptable if they are introduced to those other animals as a puppy. They enjoy chasing, but they tend to do well with other dogs and cats. But if you introduce them as an adult, it can be hit or miss as to how they take to those other pets.

Keep in mind that both breeds have naturally high predatory instincts. They can also be very territorial. Some individual pets within the breed might not take well to other animals, particularly if they have been brought into the home well into adulthood. The earlier you can introduce them, the better the chances are that they will get along with other pets.

Great Family Dogs

So long as they have the proper socialization and training at an early age, this mix can be one of the best family pets around. The bullmastiff, in particular, is a protective pet, while the German Shepherd is intelligent, loyal, and loving.

Just be cautious if you have small children around. They are quite large and can easily bulldoze a small child who is playing or not looking. That said, they have strong guardian instincts which can be fully fostered during puppy training stages.

Conclusion

If you are looking for a breed that is both fiercely loyal and quite powerful, then look no further. These are one of those hybrid breeds that can take on traits from either of their parents. The one guarantee is that they won’t be small.

Both breeds of dogs are very protective and extremely loyal. With the right socialization and training, they can make for great family pets. They can also make intimidating guard dogs, great for family homes.