Straight answers on apartments and barking, from the American Kennel Club's own ratings of the Bullmastiff. We only answer where the rating is clear.
It is a hard fit for most apartments. The AKC rates the Bullmastiff 4 out of 5 for energy and 1 out of 5 for barking, and it is a giant breed. It does best with space, a yard or a very active owner.
AKC rating: Energy level 4/5 · Barking level 1/5 · AKC Bullmastiff page
No, it is usually a quiet dog. The AKC rates the Bullmastiff 1 out of 5 for barking — it tends to bark mainly to alert you.
AKC rating: Barking level 1/5 · AKC Bullmastiff page
Not answered here: kids, other dogs, first-time owners, shedding — the AKC rating sits in the middle or doesn't match our own, so the honest answer is "it depends on the individual dog". Read the full Bullmastiff guide.
Which breeds suit kids, apartments, first-time owners →
Breed ratings describe the typical dog. Every dog is an individual, and upbringing, training and socialisation matter as much as breed. Scores from the American Kennel Club, last checked November 3, 2026.
