Yeah, the short lifespan was the primary concern and we are aware of the health problems. Also didn't know if bullies were territorial with the male/male dog thing since we already have a smaller male dog but I think we are going female anyway.
You guys hit the head on the nail, the three we were looking at were Newfoundlands, Bernese Mtn dogs, and Bullmastiff. We kinda went towards the bully because much less shedding and wife likes the tough guy look for a little sense of security when walking around our new place (moving into the city/little more crime/etc)