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Common Bullmastiff
Health & Genetic Defects

Hip Dysplasia

Elbow Dysplasia

Thyroid Dysfunction

Eye Disorders

Kidney Disease

Bloat

Cancer

Heart Problems

Temperament

DNA
Cruciate Ligament Ruptures

You should always consult a Licensed Veterinarian first for medical and health issues.  Only a Licensed Veterinarian will be able to properly diagnose and treat your Bullmastiff.

Bullmastiff Cosmetics
Brindle Bullmastiffs
Dudley Bullmastiffs
Long-haired Bullmastiffs

Emergency Care
First Aid

Before You Buy
That Bullmastiff Puppy
Questions to ask a Bullmastiff Breeder

Please be sure to consult a Licensed Veterinarian for an accurate diagnoses and treatment of your Bullmastiff's thyroid.

Some Bullmastiff Breeders will argue that this is by no means a congenial defect - Veterinary Specialists will tell you it most certainly is.   The Bullmastiff Standard itself even "hints" that it is an inherited disorder.  What it basically comes down to is this - Is the Bullmastiff Breeder you are dealing with taking the simple effort to screen their breeding stock?  If not, why not?  As a Bullmastiff puppy buyer, it is up to you as to which opinion you think is more accurate - the Bullmastiff Breeders or the Veterinary Specialists?

The following articles and interviews are from or with W. Jean Dodds, DVM.  Dr. W. Jean Dodds is a nationally and internationally renowned authority on thyroid disease, immune disorders, and nutrition.  Thank You Dr. W. Jean Dodds for giving permission to reprint your work on this site.

Additional information on thyroid dysfunction:

There are over 50 different symptoms, but the most common and recognizable symptoms that your Bullmastiff may have a thyroid dysfunction include:

  • Chronic skin disease, hair loss, poor wound healing, strong odor
  • Diarrhea, constipation
  • Weight gain, slow metabolism, lethargy, intolerance to exercise and cold
  • Eye problems
  • Behavior changes - aggression, hyperactivity, passivity, anxiety, poor concentration, phobias
  • Seizures, ataxia

This set of symptoms was taken from several thyroid information sites and articles.  Is this a inherited disease?  The latest evidence found by vets say it is and this statement - "although it can be controlled with medication I would not knowingly buy a puppy or dog at risk for this (hypothyroid) disease" - within the Bullmastiff Standard says it is.  But some Bullmastiff Breeders believe otherwise and still will not do thyroid testing of their breeding stock. 

It is recommended that when you have your Bullmastiff's yearly exams done to go ahead and run a thyroid check.  At a minimal cost of around $30 - $50, this could help you identify and get the proper treatment for your Bullmastiff before it's too late.  When in doubt - always run a thyroid check - you and your vet may be surprised with the results.

 
Contributed by her owner Linda Thompson of Gemstone Bullmastiffs. "Bubbles" was bred by Anita Lewis and Jean Robinson of Leatherneck Bullmastiffs. Her official registration name is AKC CH. Leatherneck's Pink Champagne. Power The Dog of ORLOK as donated by her breeder Ghislaine Assink. Brindle Bullmastiff puppy out of "The Dog of Orlok". Born 2 April 2000, Power is out of Moraya The Dog of ORLOK and Turbo Tyson of Forest Rangers. Presley The Dog of ORLOK as donated by her breeder Ghislaine Assink. This is a beautiful representation of a brindle Bullmastiff puppy out of the kennel "The Dog of Orlok". Rescued by Mickey Mullen of Florida Bullmastiff Rescue, this is Bumper in his new home and on his new couch. Alex at 13 weeks old, contributed by Chris Lezotte and Alan Kalter of HappyLegs Bullmastiffs. Although a bit "off color" from the traditional Bullmastiff standard, these Dudley Bullmastiffs still make wonderful pets!

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