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Post by Spike on Jan 28, 2022 13:36:00 GMT
pawversity.com/breeds/molosser-dog-breeds Molosser Dog Breeds Molossers are a class of large dog breeds with a strong and solid built. Their lineage can be traced back to the shepherd dogs known as Molossus in the Molossia region of ancient Epirus, a southeastern region of Europe which is in modern-day Greece and Albania. The term mastiff is sometimes, incorrectly, used to refer to the breed category; however, even though mastiffs fall under the Molosser category of dog breeds, the term ‘mastiff’ by itself refers to the English Mastiff breed. The Molossers typically have a strong and thick body supported by supported by heavy skeleton. The muzzle is usually short on a rounded head, resting on a short yet muscular neck. The history of the Molosser breeds goes back to ancient times. In fact, the name Molosser is derived from King Molossus, who was the grandson of Achilles, and ruled his people, the Molossians, in the ancient lands that is now occupied by Greece and Albania. The breed spread far and wide through Asia and North Africa, and as it interbred with local breeds it contributed clear physical characteristics such as large size, large square head, and a short muzzle. Selective breeding modified the breed for local suitability and new functions. Molosser dogs have had an illustrious past, and have been used throughout history. Archeological excavations have revealed pictorial representations of such dogs hunting wild horses and donkeys, as far back as the 7th century BC. Molossers have been protectors, and fought in wars since ancient times, and were even used to stage fights against lions in the Roman amphitheater. Originally, the Molossers were hunters and protectors but their role in the modern world is broader and includes search and rescue, guard dog, and sheepdog (used for protection against large predators, as opposed to herding). Well Know Molosser Breeds Since this category of dog is possibly the most ancient of dog breeds, there are a large list of molosser; however, not all of them all well-known of officially recognized by a world body. The most recognizable molosser breeds are: 1- American Bulldog (United States) 2- American Pit Bull Terrier (United States) 3- Bernese Mountain Dog (Switzerland) 4- Boxer (Germany) 5- Bulldog (Great Britain) 6- Dogo Argentino (Argentina) 7- English Mastiff (Great Britain) 8- Great Dane (Germany) 9- Great Pyrenees (France) 10- Newfoundland (Canada) 11- Rottweiler (Germany) 12- Saint Bernard (Switzerland) 13- Shar Pei (China) 14- Tibetan Mastiff (Tibet)
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Post by Spike on Jan 31, 2022 8:48:23 GMT
Molosser Dog Breeds - thepetwiki.com/wiki/molosser_dog_breeds/ The Molosser is an ancient group of dogs that includes several breeds. The Molosser’s origins are steeped in folklore along with some facts making it difficult to separate the two. Molossers are considered to be the descendants from the same basic stock. The group as a whole are large, solidly built dogs with heavy bones, pendant-shaped ears, short muzzles and muscular necks. Molossers of today include a number of breeds such as Mastiffs, Great Danes, Anatolian Sheep Dogs, Bernese Mountain Dogs, Norwegian Elkhounds, Golden Retrievers, Rhodesian Ridgebacks, St. Bernards, Doberman Pinchers, Komondors, Rottweilers, Newfoundlands and more. Not everyone is in agreement about some of the breeds on the Molosser list. In ancient Greece, a group of people called the Molossi lived in Epirus, an area in Northwestern Greece. Their dogs were used as shepherds, guarding flocks and homes. When the ancient tribes went off to war, their Molosser dogs accompanied them, fighting alongside the humans, protecting food supplies. Known for their fierceness, these dogs were loyal and brave. Before coming to Greece, it is believed that Mastiffs could trace their beginnings to the Molossers and Tibetan Mastiffs are direct descendants of these ancient dogs. There is a legend in Greek mythology about a dog named Laelaps. The mystical Greek god Zeus gave Laelaps to Europa who in turn gave him to Kephalos of Athens. It was believed that Laelaps was destined to always catch his prey. At the same time, there was a ferocious beast known as the Teumessean Fox causing havoc in the country. This fox was also predestined never to be caught. Zeus decided that since Laelaps was always supposed to catch his prey and the fox would never be caught, victory for one or the other was a useless quest. Zeus then turned them both to stone and placed them in the sky, creating the constellations, Canis Major and Canis Minor. But before Laelaps was turned to stone, he sired the race of Molosser dogs. Civilization is thought to have begun about 3000 B.C. in Mesopotamia. A group of people known as Sumerians who were traders, raised pigs, sheep and goats and needed dogs to guard their flocks and homes. The Molossers fit the needs of the Sumerians, being brave, loyal, independent thinkers, highly intelligent and strong. The color black was bred into some Molossers, those guarding homes, because the dark color would appear more frightening to predators and thieves and it was difficult to see the dogs at night. The dogs guarding flocks were bred white so that shepherds could tell the difference between the dogs and wolves. White dogs also blended well with the flocks, offering a disguise which fooled predators into believing the flocks were unprotected. The dogs guarding home and property were larger, fiercer and more muscular than those protecting the flocks. These dogs were formidable, willing and able to fight any predator, human or animal. The flock dogs were used to chase intruders away, their lighter weight giving them more speed. The common threads in all Molosser dogs are their courage, extreme family loyalty and their strength. Dogs in the Molosser group have been bred for years to become well-balanced, stable, faithful family pets. People wishing to share their lives with a Molosser breed should thoroughly research their choice and have the ability to handle a dog with this much power.
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Post by Spike on Jan 31, 2022 9:54:41 GMT
Ancient Roman Molosser Dogs - www.k9rl.com/ancient-roman-molosser-dogs/ Molosser dog breeds: The Molossus was a type of molosser dog that belonged to the ancient Greek tribe and kingdom of the Molossians. In Rome, dogs were domesticated, both as guard dogs and as pets. In towns and cities in the Roman period, large dogs were kept principally as guard dogs, war dogs and also as pets by their owners. What kind of molosser dog did the Romans use in battle? The Roman legions bred their own war dogs from an ancient mastiff-like breed known as the Molloser. They were mainly used as watchdogs or for scouting, but some were equipped with spiked collars and armor and were trained to fight in formation. How were dogs used in ancient times? Initially, mankind used dogs to guard their homes. Later, dogs became hunters and participated in wars as soldier dogs. They were used for defensive and attacking purposes or even as messengers. Unfortunately, during ancient times, when dogs were used as messengers, they usually died. Dogs in Battle: War dogs were used by the Egyptians, Greeks, Persians, Sarmatians, Baganda, Alans, Slavs, Britons, and the Romans. The Molossus dog of the Molossia region of Epirus was the strongest known to the Romans and was specifically trained for battle. Other civilizations used armored dogs to defend caravans or attack enemies.
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Post by Spike on Jan 31, 2022 9:57:17 GMT
The Cane Corso is actually a very old breed that came from the molossus-type mastiff dogs of ancient Rome. The Molosser breeds are known for their wide chests, large stature, and muscled legs. This group mainly includes bully breeds, mastiffs, and anything that derived from those two subgroups over time. Defining the word Molosser is agreed upon by most as these dogs were named after the Molossi tribes in which these dogs originated. Because the Molosser dogs are one of the oldest known groups in the world, many dog breeds that fit into this group are controversial as some are extinct or have been bred too many times and don’t attain the physical qualities that they used to. Within the Molosser group, there are two divided groups which are home guardians or flock guardians. Light-colored Molosser breeds were preferred as flock guardians because they resembled the other animals while darker colored Molosser breeds were performed as home guardians because they blended in with the scenery at night. The American Kennel Club does not currently recognize Molossers as a separate group of dog breeds, however, there have been many proposals to do so. Currently, there are 10 breeds that are proposed as the new Molosser group under the AKC. They are listed below: Boxer Bullmastiff Cane Corso Dogue de Bordeaux Great Dane Leonberger Neapolitan Mastiff Old English Mastiff Rottweiler Tibetan Mastiff
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Post by Spike on Feb 20, 2022 6:03:40 GMT
10 Different Bulldog Breeds to Consider These bully breeds have come a long way www.thesprucepets.com/different-types-of-bulldogs-4694506 Breed Characteristics: The goofy, beloved bulldog is a gentle, loving breed that's great for families with kids. Dating back to 5th century England, this breed has come a long way since its days of fighting bulls for sport. Now, bulldogs are typically characterized by their charming yet grumpy expressions and affectionate personalities. All bulldog breeds have pit bull and mastiff origins. They were initially bred for moving cattle, fighting, and their guarding prowess, and they look like tough guys. Their faces have a perpetual frown, an almost grumpy expression, and they have a barrel-like, squat, and muscular physique. Most have smooshed in faces with short snouts and are prone to brachycephalic syndrome. These dogs also have hanging jowls, an underbite, and tend to drool a bit. Take a look at these 10 bulldog types that might interest you:
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Post by Spike on Feb 20, 2022 6:05:58 GMT
01 of 10 - English Bulldog The English bulldog is the oldest and most recognizable of the bulldogs. They are a popular choice as a family pet, known for being affectionate and calm. As a result of their popularity, they tend to be overbred and can suffer from more health problems than other bulldog breeds. As a flat-faced breed, they are particularly prone to respiratory, eye issues, and a tendency to overheat (they do not fair well in hotter climates). Monitor their weight closely; they are prone to obesity. Take extra care to find a responsible breeder that carries out rigorous health tests. Breed Overview GROUP: Non-sporting (AKC)
HEIGHT: 14 to 15 inches
WEIGHT: 40 to 50 pounds
COAT AND COLOR: Short, fine-textured, smooth, and glossy coat colored red, white, fawn, or fallow (pale brown) with or without patterns and markings, such as brindle, piebald, ticking, black masks, or black tipping
LIFE EXPECTANCY: 8 to 10 years
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Post by Spike on Feb 20, 2022 6:07:25 GMT
02 of 10 - French Bulldog The Frenchie, developed from the English bulldog, has soared in popularity in recent years. Playful and loving, they often have entertaining and outgoing personalities. They are not without their problems, though, and like its English bulldog relative, it is another brachycephalic (flat-faced) breed that can suffer from breathing difficulties and can quickly overheat. As with the English bulldog, be meticulous with selecting a good breeder. Breed Overview GROUP: Non-sporting (AKC)
HEIGHT: 11 to 13 inches
WEIGHT: 19 to 28 pounds
COAT AND COLOR: Short, smooth coat in brindle, fawn, white, or combination of brindle and white or fawn and white
LIFE EXPECTANCY: 10 to 12 years
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Post by Spike on Feb 20, 2022 6:08:47 GMT
03 of 10 - American Bulldog The American Bulldog evolved after its English counterpart made its way to the States. Recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1999, they are bigger, usually much healthier, and more agile. They have a very affectionate temperament, act like oversized lapdogs, and make good family pets. They are loyal and protective of their family. Due to their size and strength, these puppies need early and ongoing training and socialization. These high-energy dogs are best suited for an active, outdoorsy family. Breed Overview GROUP: Guardian (UKC), not recognized by the AKC
HEIGHT: 20 to 28 inches
WEIGHT: 60 to 120 pounds
COAT AND COLOR: Sturdy, stocky, and muscular build; large, box-like head with powerful jaws; ears that may be cropped, slightly pricked, or droopy
LIFE EXPECTANCY: 10 to 15 years
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Post by Spike on Feb 20, 2022 6:10:19 GMT
04 of 10 - Olde English Bulldogge While immediately descended from the English bulldog, this American breed was developed to produce a more healthy and athletic dog. The United Kennel Club officially recognized it in 2014. They are larger, less flat-faced, and more agile and energetic than the English variety. They are strong-willed and formidable guard dogs and are usually gentle and affectionate towards their family. Breed Overview GROUP: Guardian (UKC), not recognized by the AKC
HEIGHT: 16 to 19 inches
WEIGHT: 50 to 80 pounds
COAT AND COLOR: Muscular, medium-sized dog of great strength; large head with stocky, wide neck, square muzzle, undershot bite, and wide nostrils
LIFE EXPECTANCY: 9 to 14 years
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Post by Spike on Feb 20, 2022 6:11:41 GMT
05 of 10 - Australian Bulldog The Australian bulldog is very similar in appearance and temperament to the traditional English bulldog. These dogs were first developed during the 1990s to produce a healthier, more heat-tolerant companion dog. It is intelligent, loyal, and good with children. This breed will enjoy playing with a ball and likes to romp in the water. A good watchdog but not a guard dog, its bullish look still helps serve as a deterrent. Breed Overview GROUP: Not recognized by any international registries
HEIGHT: 17 to 20 inches
WEIGHT: 50 to 78 pounds
COAT AND COLOR: Short and smooth coat; shades of the fawn, apricot, orange, red, mahogany, white and brindle pattern
LIFE EXPECTANCY: 10 to 12 years
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Post by Spike on Feb 20, 2022 6:12:54 GMT
06 of 10 - Buldogue Campeiro The buldogue campeiro or Brazilian bulldog descends from the now-extinct Old English bulldog from Europe. It is a distinctly different breed than the recently American-engineered "Olde English bulldogge." This dog has a long history of working in rural farm environments. These dogs are tenacious, loyal, protective, and full of stamina. They are not the affectionate, companion-type dog that many other bulldogs are. Breed Overview GROUP: Not a recognized breed
HEIGHT: 19 to 23 inches
WEIGHT: 77 to 99 pounds
COAT AND COLOR: Short and smooth coat usually with fawn, brown, and brindle coloring with white markings
LIFE EXPECTANCY: 10 to 12 years
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Post by Spike on Feb 20, 2022 6:14:03 GMT
07 of 10 - Ca de Bou The ca de bou, which translates from Catalan to mean "bulldog," comes from the Spanish island of Majorca. It is also called the Mallorquin bulldog or Majorca mastiff. As its names suggest, it inherited its looks from both breeds. Bred for their working capabilities, they are not generally suited for novice dog owners. They can be independent and territorial. Breed Overview GROUP: Molossoid/mountain (FCI); Guardian (UKC); not an AKC-recognized breed
HEIGHT: 20 to 23 inches
WEIGHT: 66 to 84 pounds
COAT AND COLOR: Short and rough coat usually with brindle, fawn, and black coloring
LIFE EXPECTANCY: 10 to 12 years
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Post by Spike on Feb 20, 2022 6:15:02 GMT
08 of 10 - Continental Bulldog Originating in Switzerland, the continental bulldog or "conti" is a healthier, more athletic counterpart to the English bulldog. This breed was the result of outcrossing the Olde English Bulldogge, the American-designed breed. It has been recognized as a breed in Germany and Switzerland since 2005, although it is not officially recognized in the U.S. Breed Overview GROUP: Not an internationally recognized breed
HEIGHT: 15 to 21 inches
WEIGHT: 48 to 66 pounds
COAT AND COLOR: Short and smooth-coated; fawn or brindle, with or without black mask, with or without white
LIFE EXPECTANCY: 12 to 14 years
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Post by Spike on Feb 20, 2022 6:16:19 GMT
09 of 10 - Valley Bulldog The Valley bulldog is a rare bulldog variety that Canadians developed in the Annapolis Valley of Novia Scotia, Canada. This breed is a hybrid of English bulldogs with boxers; they share characteristics of both breeds. They tend to be friendly, athletic, and sometimes even a bit goofy (likely inherited from their boxer side). These hybrids are working dogs for catching livestock and protecting rural property like ranches and farms. Boxer-bulldog mixes are effective guard dogs today, inheriting the boxer’s alertness and suspicion of strangers. Breed Overview GROUP: Not an internationally recognized breed
HEIGHT: 14 to 18 inches
WEIGHT: 40 to 80 pounds
COAT AND COLOR: Soft, smooth, short coat is white with brindle, tan, fawn, red, or black
LIFE EXPECTANCY: 10 to 12 years
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Post by Spike on Feb 20, 2022 6:17:33 GMT
10 of 10 - Bullmastiff This large bulldog breed resulted from a cross between the Old English bulldog and mastiff. They are known for their sweet personalities and massive size. They also get along with children and other pets. Their imposing size makes them a good watchdog. But their grandiose size also makes a falling hazard for toddlers or seniors. They need proper training to curb their lumbering ways. Like most giant breeds, their life expectancy rarely reaches beyond 10 years or so. Breed Overview GROUP: Working (AKC)
HEIGHT: 24 to 27 inches
WEIGHT: 100 to 130 pounds
COAT AND COLOR: Short coat in fawn, red, or brindle
LIFE EXPECTANCY: 8 to 10 years
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Post by Spike on Feb 20, 2022 6:25:13 GMT
Quote: "10 Different Bulldog Breeds to Consider. These bully breeds have come a long way." www.thesprucepets.com/different-types-of-bulldogs-4694506 Why do many such lists of bulldogs leave out the boxer? The only reason ( and a very poor reason ) that comes to mind is the mere fact that "bulldog" is not a part of their given name. It takes very little research to learn that the ancestry of the boxer proves him to be 100% bulldog - a mixture of German bulldog ( Bullenbeisser ) and Old English bulldog.
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Post by Spike on Mar 18, 2022 5:47:28 GMT
ALL ABOUT MOLOSSER DOGS www.all-about-cane-corso-dog-breed.com/all-about-molosser-dogs-ezp-91.html Molosser dog. Origin. In ancient state Epirus that was located in the south of present Albania, family of governors was known as Molosses. Mother of Alexander Great, Olympius, was a daughter of Tsar of Epirus. It is believed that she was the first to breed large fighting dogs. Ruler of Epirus sold these dogs or sent them as precious gifts to many countries of the ancient world. The demand for powerful dogs was high at that time and the people of Epirus became skilful and wonderful dog breeders. They had excellent business qualities: sold only male dogs and never females thus preserving their own monopoly in reproduction of these animals. Very soon "the dogs from Epirus" became rare objects and cost so much that only the rich and rulers could have them. You may find these dogs described in the works of Aristotle, Gomer, Plutarch and Aesop. When in the year 55 B. C. the Romans landed in the British Isles they met "giant with broad mouth dogs" there. Right these "Britons" were forefathers of present Mastiffs. Historians witness that these dogs were the masters of Molosses almost in every particular. Naturally, British dogs were multiply bred with Roman Molosses and as a result they began to look like modern Neapolitan Mastiffs. Numerous descendants of Molosser dogs so to say had initiated the birth of individual breeds. These breeds were named differently: Mastiff, Mastin or Maten. They say this name issued from Latin "mastinus" (domestic). There is the other variation of this interpretation saying that name of some of these dog breeds issued from Celtic words "mas" ("dwelling") and "tuin" – tan (" to guard"), i.e. " the dog guarding house" and this variant was known to the whole Europe. Nowadays besides major seven dog breeds: Bordeaux Dog, Mastiff, Bullmastiff, Mastino Napoletano, Fila Brasiliero, Mastin Espanol and Tosa Inu, in this list you also may include some of the others: Great Dane, German Boxer, Rottweiler and all Swiss sheepdogs, Boston Terrier, French Bulldogs and one the smallest dog breeds – Mops.
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Post by Spike on Mar 18, 2022 5:51:20 GMT
470 — MOLOSSER BREEDS EVOKE OLD WORLD CHARACTERISTICS puredogtalk.com/captivate-podcast/470-molosser-breeds-evoke-old-world-characteristics/ Denise Flaim, creator of Modern Molosser, Rhodesian Ridgeback breeder and AKC judge, joins host Laura Reeves to share a passionate understanding of the Molosser breeds. “The name (molosser) comes from ancient Greece….,” Flaim said. “There was a dog called the Mollsus dog. It was reputed to be very large in size. Equally as ferocious. All of the ancient scribes and historians wrote about this dog. The Romans acquired them, legend has it, and they fought in the colosseum and they were used as war dogs. “What it’s come to mean today is a group of dogs, some of them related, some not, or only distantly, that have certain physical characteristics: great bone for their size, thick skin, oftentimes wrinkled, but not always. A role that involved being a guardian of people or property or sometimes livestock. Imposing large heads, oftentimes with muzzles that are slightly shorter than the length of skull but not always. So that’s kind of the phenotype of the molosser. “They are sort of a group of breeds that consider themselves part of this family. That list would include Mastiff, Bullmastiff, Dogue de Bordeaux, Neopolitan Mastiff, Cane Corso, Dogo Argentino, Boerbel etc. “I’m always very impressed by the molosser breeders, because they’re hard to breed. Many of them of are of a size and scope in terms of bone and substance that’s very hard to achieve. Many of them are head breeds. Because their heads and certain aspects of their bodies, the differential between one breed and another is minimal. “So, for example, Neopolitan Mastiffs and Cane Corsos, head planes are incredibly important. Neo’s are parallel planes and Cane Corsos are convergent. If you have a Corso with parallel planes, you’re starting to go down the slippery slope of losing type. So, in those two breeds, the fine points are super important because there’s so much inter-relation. “There used to be this old wives’ tale, that the Tibetan Mastiff was the mother of all mastiff breeds. Now we know from genetic research that every region of the world, mastiffs types evolved separately. Sighthound archetypes and mastiff archetypes pop up in every culture. “There is an incredible lack of respect for many of these breeds. As usual, people make fun of things they don’t understand. Across the ocean, the ability to judge and breed Neopolitan Mastiffs is considered the height of connoisseurship in dogs. “In America our idiom is one of loftiness and verticality and expansion. The Neopolitan Mastiff is an old-world breed. The Neo is opera, it’s an aria, it’s primal, it’s about all those earthy emotions. It’s a completely different way to look at the breed. “Go look at (Neopolitan Mastiffs) again through the prism of ‘this is an old-world breed.’ Re-calibrate yourself. The dog shouldn’t adjust to you and your preferences. You should adjust to the dog, its history, culture and its type. “Every breed is its own country, with its own language, its own traditions, its own culture … What you don’t wanna do is be like the stereotypical American tourist with the socks and sandals and the guidebook clenched in your hand with the real superficial understanding of whatever breed you’re bumping into.”
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Post by Spike on May 31, 2022 17:00:51 GMT
Could an AKC Molosser Group become a reality? BY DENISE FLAIM Dog breeds, it turns out, are really about dog people. www.modernmolosser.com/american-kennel-club-contemplates-creating-a-molosser-group Nothing drove that point home more clearly that the American Kennel Club’s attempt in 2009 to broach the subject of “Group Realignment” – the expansion and reapportioning of its seven Variety Groups. The practical need for the change is uncontested: As the AKC recognizes a growing number of breeds every year, some of the Groups, notably Working and Sporting, are splitting at the seams. But the shelving of the committee’s proposal had nothing to do with practicality, and instead with a cultural reaction that would be better analyzed by anthropologists than cynologists: Siberian Husky and Alaskan Malamute fanciers refused to go along with the idea of the proposed “Northern Group” – a linchpin of the realignment – because they reportedly did not want to lose the word “Working.” Yes, something as simple and powerful as semantics scuttled the Group realignment, as those two parent clubs saw the loss of the word as a direct threat to the breeds’ requirement for functionality: If they weren’t called Working dogs, people might think they didn’t need to work. An argument based on emotion, perhaps, but in the end that is what breed cultures – and breeds themselves – are about. If the AKC hopes to realign its long-standing Variety Groups, it isn’t enough to propose categories based on absolutes, like history and foundation breeds. Beyond that, it is about hearts and minds – about how fanciers see their breeds, and how they want them to be seen. Hoping the second time might be the charm, the AKC Group Realignment Committee reconvened late last year to take a fresh look at the problem. One of the options they are considering is the possibility of an AKC Molosser Group. Tom Davies of Brimfield, Mass., chair of the AKC Group Realignment Committee, notes that the idea of a Molosser Group was floated in the committee’s initial discussion. And the existence of a magazine like Modern Molosser, he adds, bolsters the idea that the Molosser category is a viable, workable one. One of the reasons that the Molosser Group concept was scuttled in round one was “the concern that it might give fuel to the animal-rights folks – that we would be putting all the ‘big, mean, dangerous dogs’ in one bunch,” Davies explains. Creating a group that might be a laundry list for home-insurance exclusions is a more than legitimate concern, and the prejudice exists not only among those on the outside looking in, but within the fancy as well. As long as a Molosser Group might be seen as the corral for “big, mean, dangerous dogs,” it is doomed. Perhaps the biggest obstacle to the idea of a Molosser group is the “M word” itself. Though it is commonly used and understood overseas, it is unfamiliar to many American fanciers and judges, who might find it – there’s that theme again – “scary,” Davies says. “Molosser” (pronounced with the emphasis on the second syllable – Mole-OSS-er, not MOLE-oss-er) derives from Molossia, an area in ancient Greece where a type of dog was bred for characteristics that would facilitate his role as a formidable protector of estate and livestock. The dogs that we call Molossers today have the phenotype of this ancient forebearer: large size; heavy bone; short, powerful necks; massive heads; relatively foreshortened muzzles; and thick, sometimes wrinkled skin. These features, minus size, also characterize the “mini-Molossers” such as the French Bulldog and the Pug. Looking to Europe, there certainly is precedent for a Molosser Group: The Fédération Cynologique Internationale has one – not that the AKC is predisposed to copying the FCI, American autonomy being part of our DNA and all. While conceptually, the FCI classification system differs dramatically from the American one – the former broad and flaccid, with subcategories under subcategories (and, inexplicably, a Group devoted solely to Dachshunds), the latter taut and sometimes frustratingly inflexible – there is merit in looking at what breeds FCI places under its Molosser banner. FCI Group 2 is divided into three sections, the second of which is “Molossoid breeds.” In turn, that is divided into two more sections: “Mastiff Type” and “Mountain Type.” This reflects the divergence in the role of Molossers: some were created to protect person and estate; others, to guard livestock. Turning to Molossers of that first group, “Mastiff Type,” we find those AKC breeds that appear regularly in this magazine’s pages: the Bullmastiff, Cane Corso, Dogue de Bordeaux, Mastiff and Neapolitan Mastiff. These are breeds that, for all intents and purposes, have no problem calling themselves Molossers, which is the ultimate litmus test of “What is a Molosser?” no matter what the history books say.
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Post by Spike on May 31, 2022 17:02:21 GMT
Could an AKC Molosser Group become a reality? Continued... But then there is the rest of the list: Boxer, Bulldog, Great Dane, Rottweiler and … Shar-Pei? (Under the original AKC realignment, the Shar-Pei club voted to relocate from the Non-Sporting Group – more appropriately the We Don’t Know Where You Fit Group – to the Northern Group. But under the FCI system, the Shar-Pei’s wrinkles, thick skin and massive head place it in the Molosser camp.) And it is here that we encounter the gravitational pull that breed culture can make on how a breed is classified. In the end, it does not matter if a breed is truly a Molosser in terms of heritage and classification, if its fanciers do not wish it to be. Consider, for example, the Great Dane, which is, by definition, the German mastiff. All true mastiffs are Molossers. But countless ringside conversations have told us plainly that many Great Dane fanciers do not see their dogs as Molossers. Particularly in the American show scene, the emphasis on the breed’s elegance seems counterintuitive to the Molosser label, with its focus on strength and power. The same likely applies to the Boxer, which in the U.S. has evolved dramatically from its heavier overseas counterpart. But that is not to say that the Molosser category by definition excludes athletic, even elegant breeds. Look at the Cane Corso and, lesser known to American fanciers, the Dogo Argentino. These are breeds that have, yes, Molosser heads in terms of their massiveness, but their conformation, while always strong and powerful, gives the impression of a dog that could run all day. We have seen beautifully constructed Corsos that could give a hound a run for its money in terms of their balance, athleticism and fluidity of form – all in a package that is distinctly Molosser. The FCI’s second grouping of Molosser breeds, Mountain Type, contains many breeds that are not well known to the American fancy. But the Tibetan Mastiff certainly is. Its presence in this subgroup – and the name change, to Do- Khyi, with “Tibetan Mastiff” parenthetically – reflects the fact that some smaller examples of this breed were used as livestock tenders. But a strong contingent of Tibetan Mastiff fanciers here and abroad, particularly in Asia, have articulated the idea of the more mastiff-like members of this breed community as historically being the more desirable. This remains a point of controversy, as the American Tibetan Mastiff Association recently put forth a proposed standard that arguably nudges the breed away from its mastiff form. But it is fair to say that the most successful, prolific and visible Tibetan Mastiff breeders in the United States clearly hold the breed as a Molosser in their mind’s eye. Lingering among the Mountain Type breeds for a moment, let’s stop at the Saint Bernard. Here is a breed that is certainly Molosser in phenotype. So much so, in fact, that it has been used as a backcross in other Molosser breeds over the decades to restore soundness and type, most notably in Mastiffs. Do Saint Bernards consider themselves Molossers? We simply can’t say, though we have yet to have one in our pages. If you ever doubted how deeply rooted this self-identity among individual breeds actually is, consider a magazine that was published some 30 years ago, the philosophical forerunner to the one you hold in your hand. Molosser Magazin was published in Germany by Christofer Habig, now vice president of the FCI, and an influential thinker in the world of European dogs. It is fascinating to us to note that the breeds that appear in that vintage magazine over and over again are the very same breeds that find themselves in our pages, with little to no variation.
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