I molossers they are a category of very robust dogs and suitable for all those activities that require strength and endurance, they have a strong character and become very attached to their master with great dedication.
To the group belong mostly large dogs, such as dogues – formerly selected as war dogs and today used as guard and defense dogs – and mountain dogs, more used as shepherds. But there are also small-sized molossoids like the Pug.
What does molossoid mean?
The term “molossoid” comes from the name of the Molossian people, an ancient Greek tribe that was settled in Epirus. Here, these large dogs were prized, performing important tasks: guarding homes and borders, watching over flocks, and sometimes, fighting.
They are divided into three broad categories:
- mastiff: used in the past especially for the guard;
- Mountain dogs: used in the past as shepherd dogs;
- Small molosser dogs: designed exclusively as companion dogs.
How to recognize a molossoid?
Molossians are characterized by having a strong body, and rounded skull, low-set ears, a short jaw and, except for the smallest sizes, exceed 45 kilograms in weight. They can be tall and long-limbed or powerful and vigorous; they also have a courageous temperament and can be excellent companions for the whole family.
Molossians have often been painted as dangerous dogs, but they are not. The manifestations of aggression do not depend on the breed, but on the education that is given by man to the animals – a very important aspect for the molossers – and on how they are raised. The relationship with the owner and socialization aspects with other dogs and people play a fundamental role.
In Italy, the list of dangerous dog breeds is no longer in force previously drawn up in our legal system. Since 2009, in fact, there is no longer any reference to dog aggression based on the breed of belonging.
After all, there are bad bosses, not bad dogs.
The most representative dog breeds of molossers
1. Cane Corso
Descendant of the Roman molosser, the Cane Corso is a specimen of medium to large size which is characterized by short hair and a muscular and toned build. Loyal, protective and intelligent, he needs a balanced upbringing and frequent exercise.
It belongs to the Dogue category.
2. Neapolitan Mastiff
The Neapolitan Mastiff, a breed of Italian origin, is a perfect guardian, massive and alert, despite a sly appearance.
It belongs to the Dogue category.
3. Dogo Argentino
White and muscular it is the Dogo Argentino, a molosser with a hunting nature, protective of his family and distrustful of strangers.
Obviously falls into the category of Dogue.
4. Great Dane
Tall and slenderthe Great Dane is an anomalous dogue: it is one of the giants of the species.
5. Dogue de Bordeaux
Powerful, idle but always alert è he Dogue de Bordeaux.
6. The Rottweiler is a Molosser
Molossoid selected during the nineteenth century is the Rottweiler (photo on the cover): determined, protective and territorialan asset but also a responsibility for those who have to educate him.
It belongs to the Dogue category.
7. Boxer
Safe, loyal and playful is the Boxer, of German origins, which can be an excellent companion dog as well as a defense dog and falls into the Dogue category.
8. Saint Bernard
Next to the dogue typology there is that of the mountain dogs, imposing and with thick fur. The St. Bernard, the giant of the Alps, is one of the most representative. Loyal to his master, determined, he is still a perfect mountain rescue dog.
9. The Newfoundland is a molosser!
Always among the mountain dogs and equally brought to the rescuebut in this aquatic case, it is the Newfoundland, coming from the homonymous Canadian region. It is an affectionate and imposing dog.
10. Pug
Among the small specimens there is the Pug, lively and protective as well as an excellent companion dog.
11. Bulldog
Bulldogs, patient and sociable dogs, are also included among the small-sized molossoids.
Proper nutrition for molossers
However, they need special care, both for their size and for breathing problems that some specimens can show. For this reason, it is important to know what themore adequate nutrition.
Since they have a particular metabolism, which burns a greater amount of energy, these animals should consume to maintain their ideal weight at least 2,400 calories a day. If the food is taken in a constant and balanced way, at precise times and divided into suitable portions, they will not gain further weight. One of the goals of food diet is own avoid accelerated growth of the puppyharmful to general health.
To avoid accelerated growth and overweight, nutrition must be rich in proteintrying to reduce fat, calcium and phosphorus. Only proteins safeguard the general health of the animal.
The antioxidants are another aspect to take into account. They limit and/or slow down the oxidation of the joints and fight cardiovascular diseases. Among natural foods with a rich content of antioxidants we find:
- lemon;
- orange;
- pomodoro;
- tea leaves.
Even those with high levels of fiber they are of great importance because they promote digestion and prevent various stomach diseases. Also, they help cleanse the blood of toxins and to balance fat levels contained therein.
Therefore, choose it quality foodlengthens the life of the molosser dog, which still needs care and affection.
It is important to follow these three tips:
- The animal must eat calmly. If he is stressed he runs the risk of indigestion and gastric torsion. It is ideal that he remains calm even after the meal.
- The meat must be low in fat. Fish is a great choice. Remember to boil it in hot water to eliminate any bacteria.
- No matter how hungry your dog may be, increasing rations can do more harm than good. As an alternative, you can divide the daily ration into several meals.
Recurring health problems
Unfortunately a recurring disease is the stomach torsion that only balanced nutrition will prevent. Also, molossoids suffer from joint problems. The bigger they are, the more likely their limbs are to wear out quickly. In fact, over the years the risk of osteoporosis and obesity increases.