Bullmastiff Stud Dog Guide: Health Testing, Temperament & What to Expect

The Bullmastiff was bred to be a guardian — powerful, fearless, and loyal. Producing quality puppies in this breed demands rigorous health testing and absolute attention to temperament.

The Bullmastiff is a massive, imposing dog — typically 100–130 lbs — with a history as a gamekeepers' companion used to apprehend poachers. Modern Bullmastiffs are family companions, but their guardian instincts remain strong. Breeding irresponsibly in a dog of this size and drive is genuinely dangerous. Temperament screening is not optional.

Health Testing Requirements

Hip Evaluation (OFA or PennHIP)

Hip dysplasia is one of the most significant health problems in the Bullmastiff. OFA Good or Excellent is the target for a breeding male. Fair is marginally acceptable. Do not breed a male with OFA Mild or worse — in a dog this heavy, hip dysplasia is painful and quality of life is severely affected.

Elbow Evaluation (OFA)

Elbow dysplasia is common in heavy breeds. OFA Normal (Grade 0) is required for a quality stud. Elbow issues in a 120 lb dog are difficult and expensive to treat.

Cardiac Evaluation

Subaortic Stenosis (SAS) and other cardiac conditions occur in Bullmastiffs. OFA cardiac evaluation by a board-certified cardiologist is the gold standard. A clean annual cardiology exam should be on file for any active stud.

Eye Certification (CAER)

Annual CAER exam is standard. Entropion (eyelid rolling inward) is common in brachycephalic and heavy-headed breeds. A stud should be free of significant structural eye abnormalities.

Thyroid Evaluation

Hypothyroidism is present in the breed. OFA thyroid panel is advisable for studs with any history of thyroid issues in the line.

Cystinuria Testing

Cystinuria — a metabolic disorder causing kidney and bladder stones — has been documented in Bullmastiffs and some related breeds. DNA testing for known variants is available and advisable.

Temperament — Non-Negotiable

In a Bullmastiff, temperament screening is as important as health testing. A Bullmastiff with poor temperament is a 120 lb liability. The standard calls for a dog that is bold, confident, and responsive to its owner — never fearful, unpredictably aggressive, or difficult to manage around strangers.

Before using any Bullmastiff stud:

• Meet him in person
• Observe how he behaves with strangers (he should be watchful but not reactive without cause)
• Ask about his history with children and other dogs
• Ask whether he has any bite history

A dog that has bitten anyone unprovoked should not be bred.

Stud Fees for Bullmastiffs

Bullmastiff stud fees typically range from $1,200 to $3,000:

• Health-tested male with full OFA panel and cardiac clear: $1,200–$2,000
• Champion-titled male with proven litters: $2,000–$3,000
• Imported bloodlines from European working stock: can exceed $3,000

Summary

A quality Bullmastiff stud has OFA Good or better hips, OFA Normal elbows, a current clean cardiology report, CAER eye certification, and a confirmed stable, trainable temperament. The combination of size and guardian drive in this breed makes temperament evaluation as important as any health test. Fees run $1,200–$2,000 for a well-tested male.