One of the few drawbacks to owning a Bullmastiff is that large dogs age faster than smaller ones. Your Bullie will be considered a senior citizen at six or seven years of age, and will need a bit of special care going forward.

As mentioned earlier, have a routine blood test and thyroid panel done to establish a baseline for your dog, and also to alert you and your vet to any possible problems. Dogs are experts at masking their discomfort, and Bullmastiffs are especially stoic. Be alert to any changes in their behavior, however minor, and watch closely for signs of fatigue. Older dogs enjoy exercise, but be careful not to push them too far – those aging joints may be quite painful. Tooth and gum problems also can afflict the older dog, and severe tartar buildup can cause a systemic infection affecting the kidneys, liver, and other vital organs. Be sure to maintain proper dental care; gnawing on knuckle bones from your butcher can often eliminate the need for anesthesia-assisted tooth cleaning, and older dogs are especially at risk when they undergo surgical procedures, so anything that can be done to avoid such stress is beneficial.

A softer bed, possibly made of the new "therapeutic" eggshell foam, can ease those painful joints. You can even consider one with a built-in, dog-safe heating element to get them through a long winter on those drafty floors. There are many, many joint supplements on the market, and they do make a remarkable difference in the comfort level of the older dog. Experiment with different ones to find the supplement that works best with your dog’s own metabolism; remember, these are not "quick fix" products – they work with the dog’s body, so they do take time to be effective. Be sure to keep the dog on the slender side if he is experiencing joint pain.

Just like older people, personality traits in dogs sometimes become more pronounced as they age, and Bullmastiffs often become particularly sensitive, especially to changes in their environment. Try to ease them through any major changes such as a move, death in the family, etc.

Watch them carefully for any signs of discomfort, but enjoy your dog as you always have. With a bit of extra attention, they can lead wonderful, productive lives for many years to come.