Do Bullmastiffs have health problems?

Known health concerns in Bullmastiffs

These are the conditions most commonly seen in the breed — not guarantees, but things to be aware of:

• Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS): The flat-faced structure of the Bullmastiff causes narrowed nostrils, an elongated soft palate, and a narrowed trachea — which together restrict airflow. Symptoms include snoring, rapid breathing, exercise intolerance, and overheating. Mild cases are managed with weight control and limiting exercise in heat; severe cases require surgical correction. This is not a minor cosmetic issue — it affects quality of life.
• Hip and Elbow Dysplasia: Abnormal development of the hip or elbow joint causes pain and progressive arthritis. It's partly hereditary — which is why BVA screening of breeding dogs matters. Keeping puppies slim during growth and avoiding high-impact exercise before 12–18 months reduces severity.

How to reduce health risks in Bullmastiffs

Most health problems are either hereditary (managed by choosing a responsible breeder) or lifestyle-related (managed by the owner). Here's what actually moves the needle:

• Choose health-tested parents: Ask breeders for relevant health test results — BVA hip and elbow scores, BOAS assessments, eye tests where relevant. A responsible breeder won't be offended.
• Maintain a healthy weight: Obesity is the most preventable health issue in dogs and it compounds everything — joints, heart, and lifespan. Weigh your Bullmastiff monthly and adjust food accordingly.
• Annual vet check-ups: Not just for vaccines. A thorough annual exam checks heart, weight, teeth, eyes, and joints. Most problems caught early are far cheaper and more treatable.
• Appropriate exercise: Don't over-exercise puppies before 12–18 months — developing joints are vulnerable. Consistent exercise throughout life maintains condition better than irregular bursts.
• Pet insurance from puppyhood: Even a generally healthy Bullmastiff can develop a condition requiring expensive treatment. Insuring before any issues arise avoids pre-existing condition exclusions. Lifetime cover is worth the premium over accident-only policies.

The lifetime vet cost of a dog depends far more on diet, weight management, and preventative care than on the breed. A well-kept Bullmastiff will nearly always outlive and outperform a neglected one from the same litter.

Pet insurance for Bullmastiffs

UK insurance for a Bullmastiff typically costs £55–£110 per month. Given their health profile, lifetime comprehensive cover is worth the premium. A single BOAS surgery or orthopaedic procedure can cost £3,000–£8,000 — significantly more than years of insurance premiums.

Premiums increase with age. Insuring at puppyhood locks in lower rates and prevents exclusions for conditions that develop later.