The known history of the Bullmastiff begins about the year 1860 in England. It is probable that the story of the breed is really centuries old but proof is difficult.

In the latter part of the nineteenth century in England, the problem of keeping large estates and game preserves free from poachers was an acute one. Penalties were severe, yet poaching seemed impossible to eradicate by mere laws.

It is not surprising therefore, that the gamekeepers decided to enlist the aid of the greatest protector nature has given to man - the dog. These men cared nothing for the looks of a dog as long as he served them well.

Numerous breeds were therefore tried. The Mastiff, while courageous and powerful, was not fast enough and not sufficiently aggressive. The Bulldog, big, strong and active in those days, was a trifle too ferocious and not large enough for their needs.

These men wanted dogs that would remain silent at the approach of poachers, they needed fearless dogs that would attack on command, they wanted the poachers thrown and held, but not mauled. For these needs, they crossed Mastiff and Bulldog and the dog they wanted was produced. The resulting offspring was known either by their present day name or as "Night-Dogs."

In 1900, the Westminster Gazette we find the following report: "Mr. Burton of Thorneywood Kennels, brought to the show, one "Night-Dog" (not for competition) and offered any person one pound who could escape from it while dog was securely muzzled. One of the spectators who had had experience with dogs volunteered and amused a large assembly of sportsmen and keepers who had gathered there. The man was given a long start and the muzzled dog slipped after him. The animal caught him immediately and knocked down his man with the first spring. The latter bravely tried to hold his own, but was floored every time he got on his feet, ultimately being kept to the ground until the owner of the dog released him. The man had three rounds with the powerful canine, but was beaten each time and unable to escape."

For this type of work, dogs of a dark brindle colour were preferred owing to their lack of visibility. It was inevitable however, that as the breed gained in popularity and true Mastiff blood was used, a large number of light fawns should appear. The black mask and densely coloured ears were often inherited from the Mastiff.

Finally, owing to the increasing popularity of the breed, a number of pioneers started on a scientific basis, to breed to type in an effort to set a goal which pure bred dog breeders might seek. This type finally became sufficiently ddistinct for the English Kennel Club to grant recognition of the Bullmastiff as a pure bred dog in 1924. In October, 1933, the American Kennel Club granted recognition to the Bullmastiff and sisnce that time the breed has made numerous friends in North America.