Bully Kutta
Also known as Indian Mastiff · Pakistani Mastiff · Alangu Mastiff · Sindhi Mastiff
India and Pakistan, Mastiffs and guardian dogs
- Size
- Giant
- Height
- 75–84 cm
- Weight
- 60–90 kg
- Life expectancy
- 8–12 yrs
- Powerful
- Alert
- Dominant
- Protective
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
The Bully Kutta is a very large, short-coated mastiff type from the Punjab and Sindh regions of the Indian subcontinent. It is powerful and heavily built, with loose lips that give it its name. Type varies a great deal, and outside South Asia it is rare.
Size
- Size
- Giant
- Height at shoulder
- 75–84 cm
- Adult weight
- 60–90 kg
Typical adult ranges. Males are often at the top of the range and females at the bottom. Bigger breeds keep filling out until 18–24 months.
Lifespan
8–12 years
Most Bully Kuttas live 8–12 years. Like other giant dogs, they're usually considered senior from about 6, when twice-yearly vet checks help catch problems early. Keeping them lean is one of the most effective things you can do for a long life. How old is that in human years?
Temperament
It is described as alert, energetic and intelligent but also dominant and potentially aggressive, especially with other dogs. Experts advise that it should only be kept by very experienced owners.
- Powerful
- Alert
- Dominant
- Protective
Food
For a typical 75 kg adult- Energy
- ≈ 2,850 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Water
- 3 L–4.5 L
- a day, from all sources
- Most adults do well on two measured meals a day rather than one large one.
- Bloat is a risk in this breed: split food into smaller meals, avoid vigorous exercise for an hour either side of eating, and know the signs.
- Puppies of large breeds need a diet made for large-breed growth, so they grow steadily rather than fast.
- Choose a complete food for their life stage, and ask your vet before changing diet if they have a health condition.
Starting points only — age, activity and the food itself change the numbers. Work out portions for your dog · Foods to avoid
Exercise
60–90 min a dayIt needs substantial daily exercise and secure space. Controlled walks and structured training are essential for a dog of this size and strength.
Grooming & shedding
The short coat needs only a weekly brush, though such a big dog sheds a fair amount.
Health
Thorough early socialisation and firm, consistent, reward-based training are vital. These dogs have sadly been used in illegal dog fighting, so buy only from responsible breeders and avoid fighting lines. Some countries restrict or ban large mastiff types or their import, so check local laws. Little reliable health data exists.
The breed can be prone to
- Little breed-specific health data published
- Hip and elbow dysplasia (general risk in giant breeds)
- Bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus)
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Hip and elbow scoring
Not every Bully Kutta is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. See common conditions and the symptom checker.
History
Large hunting and guard mastiffs have long been kept in the Indian subcontinent, and the emperor Akbar is said to have hunted with one. An 'Indian Mastiff' was shown in London in the 1860s, including one entered by the Prince of Wales. Today the type is especially popular in Punjab, and Indian breeders now work under the Indian Mastiff Registry.
- Country of origin
- India and Pakistan
- Type
- Mastiffs and guardian dogs
- Recognition
- Recognised by the Indian National Kennel Club and the Indian Mastiff Registry; not recognised by the FCI, AKC or The Kennel Club
Is a Bully Kutta right for you?
Could suit
- Owners who can manage a good walk or two each day
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
Think twice if
- This is your first dog — an independent breed can be a challenge to train
- Space, food and vet costs are a concern — giant breeds need more of all three
Cost to keep
Highest than average- Food, insurance and medicines cost more for a big dog
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 8–12 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Not sure? Try the breed finder.
Bully Kutta FAQ
How big does a Bully Kutta get?
Adult Bully Kuttas typically stand about 75–84 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 60–90 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Bully Kuttas live?
Typically 8–12 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Bully Kutta need?
As a guide, around 60–90 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Bully Kutta need?
An occasional brush is plenty. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Bully Kuttas easy to train?
Often independent-minded, so training needs patience, consistency and high-value rewards.
Do Bully Kuttas shed?
A moderate amount. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Bully Kuttas good with children?
They're often better suited to adults or older, calm children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Bully Kutta live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Bully Kuttas have?
The breed can be prone to little breed-specific health data published, hip and elbow dysplasia (general risk in giant breeds), bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus). Not every Bully Kutta is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by the Petopedia editorial team to our editorial standards. General guidance, not veterinary advice.