Bandog Mastiffs

A Short Glance at the Modern Bandog History in Greece by Stelios Sdrolias

2011-02-06T23:09:00.020-05:00

My quest for the strongest protection dog -regardless of breed - prompted me to meet and test many breeds, both in Greece and abroad. The first to deal with these dogs in Greece was Mr. Panagiotis Tsikouris, owner of Molosser Gate kennels. His first Bandog was imported from Romania on 1993-94 for Mr.Dimitrios Gletzakos (Top applied martial arts instructor and expert in VIP bodyguarding). Due to Mr.Gletzakos relocation, the dog ended up at Molosser Gate kennels. People who saw the dog work said the dog was a mediocre specimen temperament wise. Maybe this what pushed Mr.Tsikouris to create his own line from his existing stock of APBT and Neapolitan Mastiffs. A new line was created,which became very famous all over Greece.The most famous ones were: Hades, Lulu Bell, Boss and Kronos. Offspring from those dogs were used for protection and breeding purposes.

A protection dog trainer from the UK who trained dogs and K9 handlers for security agencies shared his experience on Bandogs in a private circle of people. He had personal experience with these dogs since his partner owned the famous 'Zane'. His views sparked a flame for many who were searching for the ultimate defense dog for Personal Protection and Patrol Work. One of the most notable UK breeders of that era was John Young (J7 Security). His dogs defined the beginning of the re-birth of the Bandogge in the UK.

In 1999 I had the opportunity to discuss more about Bandogs with an American Bandog breeder in California (I was attending a technical seminar in San Diego at the time). I tried to personally meet the most significant breeder of our time, Joseph Lucero III, but it was not feasible at that time. We kept a good contact which proved to be priceless in the future.

In 2000 I contacted Mr.Tsikouris and visited his kennel numerous times. I tested his Bandogs and it was the first live encounter I had with these dogs. The most impressive specimen was -for me - Boss (First generation Bandog). Although I bought my first Bandog named Kalma in 2001 from his kennel, my quest for a more complete Bandog had just begun. This was the time I met Nikos Meligkounakis - a non-commissioned officer of the Greek Air Force and dog trainer- who saw Kalma for the first time in 2002. Thrilled by her temperament, we started exchanging ideas and views about Bandogs and similar breeds. After a while he was converted from a Cane Corso fan to a Bandog one.

My next step was to import straight from Mr. Lucero's kennel (Working Class K9) 2 puppies in 2002. The male pup was named Rony, which Nikos asked me to import as his personal future dog, and a female pup named Mila for my late dear friend Alexandros Antiochos.

In 2003 I was contacted by a Bandog breeder, Mario Governale owner of Thunderdome Kennels NY, who was kind enough to offer me a pup for free after acknowledging my dedication for Bandogs. It was then when Nikos asked me again to import 2 more pups (a male for his brother and a female for him). Due to the excellent relationship I had with Mr.Governale, I managed to import 3 pups from his kennel. Thunderdome's Zara, Lara and Atlas.

This created a core of good Bandogs from selected kennels in Greece.

In 2004 and after extensive training scenarios and tests, it became obvious that Rony was not a dog that I could base� a breeding line the way I had imagined it. It was then that I asked for Mr.Lucero's help again. His response was phenomenal. He bought back a dog from his very successful bloodline, a full brother to the famous Lucero's Curly (TV: Fear Factor, Movie: Hulk, Don't mess with the Zohan).

His name was Lucero's Dude and he was owned by the famous dog trainer Mr. Tom Richie. Before the dog was sent to Greece, Mr.Lucero told me to make clear to Nikos that Rony should be -at least- neutered, so he could never be bred. A perfectly sound demand from someone who believes that only the supreme quality specimens should be allowed to be bred.

On July 4th, 2004, Dude arrived in my country. It was the same day that Greece won over CZ Republic in the renowned Euro 2004 Football Championship. A typical Lucero Bandogge in both type and temperament. I changed his name from Dude to Judo.

At that period I could not keep another dog in my house, so Judo was kept under co-ownership terms by Nikos in his house.

Unfortunately my collaboration with Nikos (Bandog Farm) was terminated in August 2008. The main reasons that led me to end our partnership was that he was breeding for financial purposes, but mainly because he lied to me repeatedly, violating our agreement on the number and frequency of breeding of the dogs. A prime example of that is Thunderdome's Lara who was bred at least 6 times by the time she was 7 years old and sometimes without resting between litters. He also violated the agreement on Rony's non-breeding status, who he bred for financial gain, putting my relationship with Mr.Lucero on the line. Needless to say that Mr.Lucero was extremely disappointed by Nikos's ethics and asked that Nikos Meligkounakis (BandogFarm) should not use his name in his advertisements of his so-called kennel. Again, with the utmost disrespect, Nikos still heavily uses Lucero's name to sell puppies to unqualified owners.

Some might consider this testimony as a personal attack against Nikos. I can assure you that this is not the case. I gave far too many chances to him to step back on the right track, but he chose to become a puppy producing farm. It is obvious that education and moral values are the driving forces of our actions. It is those actions that will ultimately provide a judgment against the passing of time. I cannot ethically afford to associate my name with the mass producing of Bandogs. I feel committed to myself and to the people that supported me in raising, training and breeding these dogs.

On/Off Bandogs Greece remains true to the policy 'few selected breedings for few selected owners'. My love for these dogs and my mission to perfect them has no room for financially driven mass production of dogs for the general public. Dogs from my breeding's have found their way to the USA, Italy,Denmark, Holland, Norway, Finland, Slovakia even Madagascar, gaining excellent testimonials even from other Bandog breeders. This is my payback for the the effort I place upon these dogs.

We are the only kennel in Greece (and quite possibly the world) that has access to dogs from the Lucero bloodline for breeding purposes with values and guidelines. Mr.Lucero's friendship, guidance and of course his dogs will continue to be a huge part of our program.

Stelios Sdrolias
On/Off Bandogs Greece

courtesy of Dan UK

2009-01-24T01:23:00.021-05:00

The Dog

Captain James Dickie

Hutchinson & Co Limited, 1933

The Mastiff

In ancient days there existed a dog called a Molossus, or Dog of Molosiss in Greece, and from this dog both the bulldog and the mastiff, possibly also the pug, descend. Edmund de Langley, writing in the fourteenth century, mentions the Molossus (mastiff) and the Aluant (bulldog). This appears to be the first occasion when the breeds were mentioned separately. Dr. Caius, on the other hand, mentions only one breed “ the Mastive or Bandogge ” in a book written about 1570, so we presume that, in the Middle Ages, the breeds were frequently cross. I suggest that in future bull-mastiffs be called Bandogges – surely a more attractive name!

The present-day mastiff is an excellent dog from every point of view. He is dignified and is not given to barking, except when necessary, intelligent and very courageous. His traditional job is to act as a guard and companion, and this he does extremely well. In these hard times big dogs which are expensive to keep and do not work for their living (as, for instance, do gun-dogs) are in danger of losing ground as they did during the war. The mastiff is one of our oldest British breeds, a dog possessing the traditional virtues of the Englishman, and it is to be hoped that this breed will not be allowed to suffer.

The Bull-Mastiff (Bandogge or Bandog)

When the Bull-mastiff Club was formed, to standardize a small handy mastiff or large old-fashioned bulldog, there was a dispute as to the name: some wished to call them night-dogs, some bull-mastiffs, some bandogs. Queen Elizabeth or her physician, Doctor Caius, would have been in no doubt at all : bandog is the traditional name.

Though earlier writers distinguished between the Alaunt or Canis Anglicus (bulldog) and the Canis Molossus (mastiff) Caius fails to mention the smaller variety: the “ mastive of bandogge ” was “ An huge dogge, stubborne, eager, burthenous of body and therefore of but little swift-nesse, terrible and fearful to behold and more fierce and fell than any Archadian curre. ”

In Vero Shaw’s opinion this description refers to the bulldog rather than to the Canis Molossus or “mastive” of Edmund de Langley which, being supposed to be of Greek origin, was doubtless the “Arcadian cur.”

In any event, the bulldog and the mastiff were freely interbred between the fourteeth and the nineteenth centuries; the hard and fast line of demarcation appears to be of fairly recent date.

The present-day bull-mastiff, considered simply as a dog, is a magnificent beast.

He was evolved by crossing the old type bulldog (not the toad-like variety) with the mastiff. The result was a dog similar to the Dogue de Bordeaux and the Spanish bulldog (both, it is believed, descended from English bulldogs of the old type).

Some have “ crank ” tails, but the majority of tails are straight.

The dog has enormously powerful jaws, the more so because they are short (the “punishing jaw” business is nonsense from the purely mechanical as well as the practical point of view), an excellent nose and plenty of brain room. For his size he is active. He has a sense of property and is game
without being quarrelsome.

His only fault as a guard might be over-friendliness.

The Bulldog

THREE varieties of “ Alauntz ” are mentioned in The Mayster of Game, written in the fourteen century: “ The which men clepyn Alauntz gentil. Other there byn that men clepyn Alauntz ventreres. Other byn Alauntz of the bocherie.”

The first variety is so “gentil ” that Edmund de Langley, in giving a list of the animals which it would attack, mentions oxen, sheep and swine, “ or to men or to other hounds, for men have seen Alauntz sle her mayster.”

Evidently a nice pet to leave with the children. This variety was shaped like a “ greyhounde ” except the head, “ which shuld be greet and short.”

The second and third varieties were evidently more heavily built, and “ Thei holde fast of here nature.”

They were used for bull-baiting and boar-hunting in company with greyhounds.
Edmund de Langley alludes to mastiffs in addition, but it is fairly clear that they and bulldogs descend from the same parent strain.

Bull- and bear-baiting continued up till about 1850, and it was believed that to bait a bull before slaughtering improved his flesh : to this day many people believe that the flesh of a coursed hare is better than that of a shot one. It may be so.

In old pictures of bull- and bear-baiting the dogs shown are like small, active mastiffs. They were magnificent specimens physically and, necessarily, brave to a fault.

When bull-baiting became unfashionable the dogs were kept only by the lowest classes until, about 1860, they first appeared at shows.

The shows did the dogs more harm than the bulls, bears of Bill Sikes. Lest I be accused of prejudice, I will quote the Natural History Museum : “ Other characteristics are the short, wide skull, the small loins and hind limbs and the strength of the forequarters. These features are exaggerated in the present breed, which is useless for fighting. The skull for instance (as shown by the specimen in the table case), is so broad and underhung as to be a monstrosity, while the outward bending of the legs is excessive.”

It may be noted that the specimen alluded to (a show champion whelped in 1901) is far less of a monstrosity than present-day champions.

The present-day bulldog is born old ; he is a wheezy amiable creature, useless for any purpose, but, usually still retains the indomitable courage of his ancestors.

Doubtless, if a club were formed to revive the old breed it could be done. It would only be necessary to pick out and breed from the least deformed puppies produced by parents themselves not too inbred.

The rapidity with which dogs will throw back to ancestral and natural type is proved by the Brancaster Basset hounds Q. V.

Revive the National Dog

I HAVE been accused by no less a person than the secretary of the London Bulldog Society: he said that I had tried to discredit the National Dog.

I replied that my regret was that the national dog is extinct, or almost so, and has been replaced by a useless, wheezing monstrosity. Underslinging of chassis may improve motor-cars, but it does not improve dogs.

Meanwhile, a correspondent wants a mate for a bull-terrier bitch which is a throw-back to the old bulldog, and there seem to be no bulldogs of the authentic type. Here is a head study of a typical bulldog of seventy years ago : the fact that his ears are cropped gives him a somewhat ferocious appearance, but he has a kind, intelligent eye and plenty of brain-room ; he has a powerful jaw (none of your useless “punishing” length), and terrific muscles to work it.

He has a good nose, too: the flews are not too tight and the nose itself is big, with wide-open nostrils, rather like a Gordon setter’s.

Altogether a magnificent head for a companion dog. His body was equally good.

His courage was proverbial : such dogs attached and were killed by lions and bears in the “good old” cruel days.

This is the Alaunt of old days – the real National Dog of England.

Above is a picture of a bulldog from Jesse’s Anecdotes of dogs (1846). The accompanying text says : “ The bull-dog has been called the most courageous animal in the world …His strength is so great that, in pinning a bull, one of these breed …has been known, by giving a strong muscular twist of his body, to bring the bull flat on his side.

“In consequence also of his high courage and perseverance, a bulldog has gone a greater distance in swimming than any other dog has been known to do. In a match that was made for the purpose, one of these animals fought and beat two powerful Newfoundland dogs.”

All of these statements may be true. The body of the dog has enormous power and heart room for his size ; his build shows speed and agility, only his poor broken face is ugly.

The “ smashed-in face ” was produced by methods that would not be tolerated to-day (cutting of ligaments and beating with a mallet) and has been exaggerated and perpetuated by “ the fancy.” The correct head was illustrated in my last article.

Is this magnificent breed of dog to be allowed to become extinct?

Breeding

UNFORTUNATELY for the whole race of dogs, nearly all breeders want to sell their puppies as expensively as possible.

The public will give more money for the progeny of a show champion than for an ordinary dog. Naturally, therefore, the breeder caters for the demand regardless of other matters.

Actually it is the sire of the champion who has proved a success, from the breeding point of view, not the champion himself, whose stock may be of indifferent quality.

Logically, therefore, if one wants champions, one should breed from the sires and dams of champions rather than from champions.

Whether from the show or the working point of view, there are many factors, other than the actual parents and their history, to be considered. In race-horses, where pedigrees are more carefully kept than is normally the case with dogs, many horses, themselves big winners, have failed at the stud.

Points to Consider

Presuming, for the moment, that we are breeding for points (in my opinion an undesirable proceeding if carried to excess), we should first consider the dam’s faults.

Suppose we find that our Labrador is long in the back and flat-sided, but has an excellent head and an exceptionally strong foreface, it would appear obvious that she should be mated to a short-coupled, well-ribbed up dog.

Not only that, but the sire should come of a family of strong-bodied dogs.

If his head is faulty, the question arises whether the ugly head is a family trait ; above all, whether he is inbred to an ugly-headed dog. If so, the ugly head will be a pre-potent trait, which will certainly show itself in the pups.

If his ugly head is purely a personal affair, and his good body a family matter, we have our perfect sire, all else being equal, a great deal a better sire than a champion who happened to be the only strong-bodied dog of a weak family.

Once in twice out, is the traditional rule in breeding dogs and horses ; breeding out and out tends to cause reversion to original type. Inbreeding in fact, accentuates peculiarities, outbreeding tends to eliminate them.

It must be remembered, however, that inbreeding tends to accentuate and fix bad points as well as good ones. Physical or nervous weakness, especially the latter, may become dominant and ineradicable from future generations.

In Scottish terriers, for instance, there is a nervous strain ; they are charming and plucky little dogs as a rule, but many years ago someone inbred to a nervous dog and his characteristics still keep cropping up.

From the breeding point of view mental characteristics are more important than appearance. Scientific selective breeding will alter the appearance of a race of dogs in a few generations, but disposition is far more difficult to influence. There are, for instance, untrainable strains of show gun-dogs, which breed true-all useless and untrainable.

A Case in Point

Generally speaking, the sire is the stronger influence as regards type ; the dam influences size and disposition. Remember the mule and the jennet. The mule is big, like his dam, but otherwise like his donkey sire; the jennet is in every way more like a pony than a donkey, but is small, like his donkey dam. The same principle applies to dogs.

Do not worry, therefore, if the sire is on the small side ; a big dam will usually compensate.

When it is desired to breed from an old dog the mate should be young. I once mated a Labrador aged eight to her own great-great-grand-nephew ; she had a large and healthy litter. If I had mated her to a dog of her own age she would probably have had fewer and less healthy pups.

Breeding for Type

MOST breeders breed for appearance, some for qualities combined with “correct” type, a few –the wise ones- bother little about appearance and breed for qualities.

Except, however, in the case of working dogs, this last category is almost non-existent. For this reason a pup from a working strain usually makes the best companion.

It is this point which is forgotten by a correspondent who suggest reviving the old English bulldog by crossing in the German “boxer” instead of breeding out and out from those available puppies which are anatomically sound and so “worst” from a show point of view.

Doubtless the boxer cross would be a short cut as regards appearance, but if the idea is to revive the national dog, why introduce outside blood?

Especially is this so when it is the dog’s courage and tenacity which we wish to preserve; any outside blood might bring in a change of disposition which would persist in the breed long after all appearance of the foreign blood had been bred out.

Many gun-dog breeders have found out this fact to their cost by crossing into a working strain useless show blood, with the idea of improving the appearance of their dogs; the result in such vases has frequently been to spoil the strain from both points of view.

Beware, in gun-dogs, of the holder of many challenge certificates who is not a champion ; there is only one reason-he is untrainable.

Telegony

TELEGONY is “ The (hypothetical) influence of a previous sire seen in the progeny of a subsequent sire from the same mother” (Oxford Dictionary), and is widely believed in by dog breeders.

It is, in fact, a very ancient belief, but scientists (who do not deny its possibility) have, so far, failed to trace a single indubitable case of it in any animal.

An example, quoted in the Encyclopaedia Britannica, is that of the Baron de Parana, who breeds thousands of mules.

In hundreds of cases mares (dams of mules) subsequently produce pure-bred foals with no trace whatever of mule about them.

Sir Everard Millais experimented for thirty years with cats, rabbits, mice, sheep, cattle, fowls and pigeons, and never saw a certain case of telegony.

My Own Experience

Many cases are, of course, duly vouched for. I bred a litter of Gordon setters myself; two of twelve were all tan, the remainder black and tan. Both parents were in the Kennel Club Stud Book. Had the dam ever been mated to an Irish setter here would have been a clear case of telegony, but she never had been so mated and had never had a tan or red pup in her life!

The tan pups, in fact, were either sports or throw-backs: the probable explanation is that, as Gordons were very scarce in war-time, an Irish dog had been crossed in and that this dog was an ancestor of both sire and dam.

All unknowingly, I was probably inbreeding to an Irish dog seven or eight generations back.

The incident, in fact, was not a case of telegony but a warning against crossing outside blood into any breed.

Breeding – Some Theories and Facts

MANY scientists deny the possibility that acquired characteristics can be transmitted to puppies by parents: docked dogs for instance, do not produce ready-docked puppies: mental characteristics, however, seem to be different and to be transmissible. Thus a trained retriever dog will sire more easily trained puppies than his untrained litter brother –this, at least, is the opinion of every breeder I have ever consulted. Scientifically minded readers (if any) will find that Weissman admits the possibility of modification of the germ plasm in the body of the individual host.

Another point: purely female characteristics are transmitted through the sire: thus, a cock from a good laying strain sires prolific hens, a bull from a good milking strain, sires cows which give a lot of milk. Similarly, a dog from a prolific strain will sire bitches which will have big litters.

Bandogges History A Breed in Progress by Martin J. Leiberman

2008-02-11T23:11:00.000-05:00

**With New Commentary Below**

Bandogges History A Breed in Progress
by: Martin J. Leiberman

In the middle nineteen sixties John Bayard Swinford, VMD began crossing American Pit Bull Terriers with English Mastiffs. I had a similar ideology and we were eventually introduced by a mutual acquaintance. John and I remained friendly for over three years. During that time we combined ideas and collaborated on a number of breed specific issues. Our goal was to breed a large super Mastiff, "a dog fearing nothing made of flesh." Our work began by crossing English Mastiffs with Pit Bulls. However, over time it became apparent that garnering English Mastiffs for this project was increasingly difficult. We needed to bring in an infusion of outside blood. We looked at our options and came up with the Italian Bull Dog, an ancient European Mastiff.

We liked the primitive over done appearance of the dog. We liked the natural suspicion exhibited by the breed. In addition, we liked the hard bonding characteristic of the breed. We didn't like the differential in skull size between the bitches and dogs. We also had a problem with the breed's lack of (prominent) dentition. Plus, many of the Italian Bull Dog bitches have a condition called cat face. These dogs lack length of muzzle (often times) and it impedes endurance and the ability to bite. The late Luigi Forina bred Italian Bull dogs, as they were affectionately called in those days. That was well before folks called them Neapolitan Mastiffs. Senior Forino lived on Logan Street in Brooklyn, not far from the queen's border. Luigi, allowed us to harvest blood from a well-made 240-pound stud dog. This blood was crossed back into our (existing) brood bitches.

We now had the fresh blood our project needed. The impact of the hybrid-vigor factor surfaced immediately. Without question we had created a superior mastiff. This being the first responsibility of the Bandogge project. Conversely, we also created an inferior American Pit Bull Terrier. However, the goal of the Bandogge breeder should not be to improve the Pit Bull Terrier, as this would prove to be futile. However, to improve the mastiff, with their many faults would be a reasonable challenge. Our primary focus would be to improve motor skills, to thicken nerves and capture a higher degree of gameness. One must never loose sight of an important historical fact. It took three hundred years to create the perfect bull and terrier cross. Having said this, it is also safe to assume the larger the dog the longer the journey to perfection.

One must view the Bandogge as an ongoing work in progress of a breed in progress. It is my opinion that our first generation breeding produced pups that were vastly superior to their Mastiff parents. This is not arrogance, but fact. Ergo, I am comfortable stating that the first segment of our genetic journey was a success. The breeding that followed continued to demonstrate reasonable gains. John Swinford died in the fall of 1972. I continued to breed and promote our project well into the next decade. I guess I became distracted by responsibility. I have not put pups on the ground for many years. In truth, I no longer have the temperament to deal with the voluminous numbers of un-coachable puppy buyers. Today's breeding environment has endless options. The modern breeder of Bandogges has a wealth of outside blood to infuse into his or her kennel. Rare breeds are no longer rare! The world has become smaller, more transparent and less mysterious.

In terms of the Bandogge project, I feel the best has yet to come! It is nice to see young people like Mario and Vicki Governale realize the true potential of the Bandogge. More importantly they are willing to run with the torch and tackle (endless daily) kennel chores. Mario and Vicki own the Thunder Dome facility. The kennel is spacious; the atmosphere is feral and clean. I am pleased that folks like Mario and Vicki are so passionate about the development of the Bandogge. I am certain it would please John Swinford as well.

Comments/Commentary

"John and I remained friendly for over three years" - This shows that Mr. Leiberman's efforts occurred both independent of, concurrently to and thereafter Dr. Swinford's. It shows that whilst they did indeed collaborate, it was for a relatively brief period of time (certainly by dog breeding standards in respect to the fixing of a line(s)) in view of common perceptions and that whilst there were shared elements in terms of standards, Mr. Leiberman's views should be treated as both distinct to and equal of Dr. Swinford's, yet Swinford is seemingly attributed with a disproportionate degree of credit as a result of fame garnered through the books released by one Carl Semenic.

The entire "Swinford concept" was embraced to varying degrees by a number of individuals both in terms of breeding the actual 'Swinford' dogs (Swinford, Leiberman, the Grimm family etc.) and in terms of furnishing the component breeds (Kelly, Ashton, the Sottile family). With Swinford's passing, the concept continued on as it had done for hundreds of years beforehand in Europe, Africa, Asia and beyond, yet the specific Swinford program itself was not sustained, despite the fact others maintained an affinity toward the concept. There will no doubt be opinions as to why this might be, but one part of the explanation must be that insufficient progress had been made to produce a consistent, worthwhile line to preserve or even to play a significant role within the continuing programs of others:

The Sottile family were one of the earliest to import numbers of rare breed mastiff and continued to own and breed these dogs; Neapolitans and Cane Corso amongst them.

The Pitbull fraternity continued along their path as before, with the concept holding little to no interest for 'serious dog men'

The Grimm family were never sufficiently happy with the Swinford dogs and later gave them up upon discovery of the American Bulldog, which was described as being that which the Swinford was always meant to be; so much so that this sentiment was conveyed by the family through David Putnam's popular publication, "The Working American Bulldog".

Mr. Leiberman's efforts continued on for a period after Swinford's death; "I continued to breed and promote our project well into the next decade" and he also went on to set-up a very successful business within the pet/working dog industry, which in part may explain in part how he "became distracted by responsibility".

As pertains to the use of the Neapolitan, Mr. Leiberman makes quite clear his likes and dislikes in the aforementioned article. He also clearly states the the majority of issues pertained to the females of the breed and that they made use of a male for purposes of their breeding. The effect of this infusion of Neapolitan into the existing EM and APBT combinations was that "Without question we had created a superior mastiff."

Whilst it is mentioned that "Conversely, we also created an inferior American Pit Bull Terrier" it must be remembered that at this time, dog fighting was by and large a "tolerated activity" by the authorities and still a persistent albeit small part of 'popular male culture'. The only context in which this comment holds any pertinence is in the context of the 'box' or fighting dog. However, as Leiberman clearly goes on to state, "the goal of the Bandogge breeder should not be to improve the Pit Bull Terrier" instead it is to "...improve the mastiff".

This returns to the point of breeding in the modern age. Thunderdome Bandogges made use of the very same combinations of breeds employed by Dr. Swinford and Mr. Leiberman; indeed the EM, Neo, Bull & Terrier and also the American Bulldog combined to produce the very dogs that Mr. Lieberman referred directly to in his glowing endorsement of the Thunderdome programme with owners "so passionate about the development of the Bandogge" producing dogs to such a standard that, as Mr. Leiberman himself puts it "I am certain it would please John Swinford as well."

Mr. Leiberman's thoughts clearly were not in isolation, as the dogs Mr. Leibermans comments were based upon (amongst them Thunderdome's Silver Belle, Bodacious Bo, Hurricane Rosie and Mad Max) and their descendants (Gator, Harden's CJ, Blockbuster's Porsche, Taboo, Atlas, Lara, Zara and through cooperation with DK9; Storm Bruin, Richie's Hondo etc.) have actively been sought out and used to provide foundation stock for numerous programs around N. America (Blockbuster, Jim Harden, DK9 to name but three) and around the world (for example: Bandog Farm and On/Off Bandogges in Greece).

WORKING CLASS KENNELS DUDE

Whilst other kennels have enjoyed relative success, only two other programs from N. America have exerted such an influence over quite literally, "the Bandogge world", these are:

Working Class Kennels (WCK9) of California, who have also shipped dogs internationally (Canada, Peurto Rico, America) for commercial and personal security applications. In addition, to along with Hardball Kennels, WCK9 also provided the foundation stock for Elite Kennels and also coincidentally, has more recently contributed fresh blood to the Thunderdome program not to mention gained notoriety for the abilities of its foundation stock to perform in the entertainment industry for Movies such as 'Hulk' and TV including 'Fear Factor'.

Mr. James Walsh, who has seen demand for his dogs as far afield as Denmark, Holland and Italy where they have proven themselves useful not only for security, but also in the arena of weightpull competitions.

Bandog from Wikipedia

2007-09-07T21:55:00.000-05:00

This is the Wikipedia Bandog article. Below the article is some input from Dan Balderson (DanUK) on the validity of the text.

Bandog (also known as Bandogge) is a name derived from early English and refers to a dog that was bound by a chain until it was released at night in order to guard property. The fact that the modern day Bandog is also large, is a guard dog, and is composed of some Mastiff and some Bulldog, as was the original Bandog, is all that the Bandog of old and the modern Bandog have in common.

History of the bandog

Most writers are of the opinion that all dogs (Canis lupus familiaris) originated from the wolf (Canis lupus); however, the exact development of the original Bandogs still remains a mystery. Although, it is impossible to say exactly how the Bandog originated, it is certain the original Bandogs were bred with a functional purpose, as were all working breeds, and for the Bandog this purpose revolved around guarding and protecting. ^{[citation needed]}

Early incarnations of the Bandog probably had bloodlines from bull baiting dogs and the Guardian Mastiffs or the cross of both like the war dogs used in the Crusades.

William Harrison, in his description of England during 1586, first mentions the breed in his statement, "Bandogge which is a huge dog, stubborn, uglier, eager, burthenouse of bodie, terrible and fearful to behold and often more fierce and fell than any Archadian or Corsican cur." It is assumed that the word "Bandogge" originated from the use of strong bonds and chains to secure the dogs.^{[citation needed]}

In 1576, Dr. Caius states that, among others characteristics, the "Mastiff or Bandogge is serviceable against the fox and the badger, to drive wild and tame swine out of meadows, and pastures, to bite and take the bull by the ears, when occasion so required."^{[citation needed]}

The Bandogs of old were strictly working dogs, often of various crosses and various sizes. Usually these dogs were coarse-haired hunters, fighters and property protectors without a strictly set type, developed from eastern shepherds and mastiffs crossed with western Bullenbeissers and hounds, with a few local bloodlines eventually being established as specific types in some regions, such as Britain, Spain, Germany, Poland and elsewhere in Europe. One of the most famous Bandog programs in England led to the establishment of a recognized breed, the Bullmastiff.

Modern Breed Description

When describing Bandogs, it should be noted there have been many variations of such programs under a variety of names, but the breed commonly accepted as the Bandog today was developed in the 1960's by American veterinarian John Swinford, who set out to create a guardian dog superior to all others. Though many breeders of Bandogs today disagree on just what breeds went into Swinford's original breeding scheme, it has been proven that the basis of his program was largely derived from 50% American Pit Bull Terrier and 50% English Mastiff. Unfortunately, Swinford died in October of 1971 at an early age and his version of the Bandog, although very successful, was never perfected or recognized as a purebred during Swinford's time. Eventually, all the original Swinford dogs died out. .

—Dogwork 02:06, 13 October 2007 (UTC)Another notable developer of working class Bandogs is Joe Lucero. Lucero refers to his dogs as American Bandogge Mastiff. There are other bandog strains in existence under different names, but the Swinford and Lucero lines are the most famous celebrated for their stable temperaments and outstanding working qualities. Many people believe these dogs to be the perfect protection and working class guard dogs.

Many programs have used American Pit Bull Terrier (American Staffordshire Terrier) and Neapolitan Mastiff crosses, as has been the case with the Lucero program. Other programs, such as the Swinford program, developed primarily founded upon American Pit Bull Terrier and English Mastiff crosses. A few programs have also used other bully type breeds as well as other mastiff type breeds. Regardless however of which program a breeder selected, if they were breeding dogs true to guarding purposes it has been essential to select dogs suitable for such work. Dogs were bred from strains that have temperament, phenotype, to do home guardian or personal protection. The Bandog is a rugged dog, heavily boned and muscled, intimidating when seen and is ferocious when provoked. The Bandog, any variety, is strictly a working breed and should be a result of serious and dedicated planning, starting from careful selection of parent breeds and more importantly, appropriate representatives of those breeds, with the health and temperament testing being on the top of the list of priorities, while the uniformity in appearance is the last of the breeders' concerns. The intention in each case is to combine the courage and tenacity of an American Pit Bull Terrier with the large size and guarding instinct of a Mastiff.

Broad skull, strong muzzle that is medium to long muzzle depending on the strain, wide shoulder, powerful chest, great agility, intelligence and very well controlled dog.

Future

The hope is that the breeding of these dogs will finally be perfected; however, the Bandog is being bred by many breeders who range from the very serious and knowledgeable to the very amateurish and inexperienced, sometimes called backyard breeders. Like with all dogs, the Bandog can display either the best or the worst characteristics of the parents (or the parent breeds), depending on the knowledge of the breeder and the randomness of genetics. Therefore, a purchaser of a Bandog must do a good deal of investigation to avoid the risk of buying a puppy from a breeder that doesn't understand the necessity of proper selection.

[edit] Appearance

It should be noted that appearance is of least concern to serious bandog breeders, as the purpose of such dogs is first and foremost function. It should also be noted that not all groups currently agree on a universal standard. While some breeders share a general standard, the SSDA has kept their standard for the Swinford type dogs private and for this reason the general standard seen below will vary significantly from their adopted version.

Size: Males and females: Height: 25" or greater. Weight: 100 lbs or greater.

Drives: Natural guardian ability is required. The dog should display prey drive with enthusiasm. Defensive drive should be bold and confident when stimulated. Weakness in any form should be selected against.

Specials characteristic: Effectionate with the family, intelligent, loyal and devoted to their master.

Temperament: Effectionate, loving, and submissive to the master and family (including children), yet fearless adversary to anyone who threatens the Bandog's master or property. Although accepting to welcomed guests, the Bandog should present a guarding disposition towards visitors if his master is not at present.

Disposition: The Bandog protects their master against any danger, even to give their own life to protect him.

Body: Large, but compact. Powerful, but agile. Should represent an athlete.

Color: Different mixes of colors are acceptable, but most common colors are: any brindle color, black, golden fawn, fawn and red. Other colors are allowed too, as is red and black on their noses. Large amounts of white has been frowned upon by some programs due to its lack of being a natural color, inability to camouflage the dog well, and because it is often associated with various genetic defects.

Coat: Short, close and medium fine.

Ears: Cropped or natural.

Neck: Very strong, muscular and robust.

Eyes: Dark preferable, but should bear some relation to coat color.

Tail: Docked or natural.

Faults: Failure to be worked, failure to work successfully, producer of genetic problems in pups, poor immune system, affected by hip and elbow dysplasia. Excessively undershot.

Foundation Breeding

What is reported here is just an estimated expected average range of various foundations breeds commonly seen in various Bandog programs.

The Primary Group , approximate average of 25-75% from American Pit Bull Terrier and/or American Staffordshire Terrier.

The Secondary Group ,approximate average of 25-75% from Mastiff and/or Neapolitan Mastiff.

A Tertiary Group (used in some programs) approximate average of 0-75%: American Bulldog, Boerboel, Bullmastiff, Bulldog Campeiro, Bull Terrier, Cane Corso, Dogue de Bordeaux, Fila Brasileiro, Great Dane, Perro de Presa Canario, and/or the Tosa Inu.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bandog

Below by Dan Balderson:

The Wikipedia article still seems a bit off. Bandogges are mentioned by Geoffrey Chaucer over a 100 years before William Harrison wrote his works for example. Likewise, the Bandogge pre-dates the ‘sports’ of Bull baiting’ and such like. Bandogges pre-date the Normans, given that it was an Anglo Saxon term that eventually fell foul of the Norman (French) influence that led to the eventual word of ‘mastiff’. A wolfhound / Azores Griffon type dog was employed by the ‘Celts’ and was likely one of the forebears of the earliest Bandogge types. These dogs and the esteem with which they, along with boar and other key elements to that lifestyle are still seen today in the highly stylized forms of traditional ‘Celtic’ works of art, particularly as incorporated into knot work.

There is truth to the point of securing the dog, but the origins, at least as so far back as can be traced to Chaucer, suggest that Bandogge’s were in fact catch dogs that were kept tied whilst on the hunt until the game was in clear view / and at bay upon which time they were released, much akin to many modern hunters employing ‘Bulldogs’ today.

In terms of modern origin, the Bandog / Bandogge still originates from the British Empire; the term was used along with Game Keeper’s Night dog, Bull and Mastiff, and of course Bullmastiff with equal regularity until such time as an official breed was recognised under the latter term. However, Bandog, was also one of the proposed breed names (as they were regularly referred to as such in Print, certainly from around the 1930’s) at the time of acceptance and determination of a modern breed standard. The Bandogge concept was widely employed across the empire, notably in Southern Africa, but also in India where the term ‘Seizers’ came to the fore. These dogs were often mixes of English and German hounds with Bull, Mastiff and (Bull) Terrier breeds, or the latter combined with indigenous dogs, notably hounds such as the Rampur hound for the express purpose of big game hunting.

The Swinford stuff is also not wholly accurate. He worked with a great number of people to achieve his ends, of course Liebermann is known, but the likes of Grimm’s and a few others were equally involved, they simply chose not to gain the same degree of notoriety, nor had the exceptionally privileged background as to be able to conduct themselves as he did. His program was not entirely based on APBT to Neo, as Lee and others are correct to point out, that just happened to be at around the time he was most well-known prior to his death. His program was not successful or long lasting. Families such as the Grimm’s would encounter the American Bulldog and pursue it as everything the combined Swinford program was hoped to be, but was not. This point was even recorded in print when the family was interviewed about their involvement with both types of dog.

The current breeding section is a load of old tosh and frankly dangerously provocative “to combine the courage and tenacity of an American Pit Bull Terrier with the large size and guarding instinct of a Mastiff”. This is not strictly true and as such should not be presented in this context. It is a fallacy perpetuated by the limited and hence poor research of the author Carl Semenic whose primary research early on was gained during his exposure to the illicit world of dog fighting that existed and thrived in his region of the USA .

More accurately, the infusion of the Pitbull terrier is to correct the many structural, biological and temperamental flaws inherent in today’s mastiff breeds, to create a tighter, more functionally sound and active dog without the type of ‘tenacity’ that many folks would associate with the word when used in conjunction with the term ‘pitbull’ …it is not dog fighting aggression or tenacity …which is in many ways anathema to the purpose of a working mastiff. The Pitbull, when selected carefully, contributes a greater degree of bid ability and tolerance even, around people, creating a more fun-loving, less sharp, but very human-focused dog. Equally, inappropriate selection of the Pitbull can cause no end of problems; shyness, fearfulness (toward people) are inherent issues with some lines of these dogs, not specifically avoided because for other purposes (i.e. fighting) such traits were an acceptable hindrance, when they didn’t otherwise impede performance in the illicit world of dog fighting. It is also true that the Pitbull is far from the only breed used or necessary to be used in the development of Bandogs. Staffordshire Bull Terriers are equally employed, though do not produce the same degree of size in the F1 progeny as many lines of Pitbull might, but still develop the same positive qualities. Indeed, the Stafford is documented as having been used in the re(-construction) of the Perro de Presa Canario among other breeds. In sport/pp working bandogs, AmStaff blood is also heavily employed, in part because these dogs are not only bigger, but because many lines have already been bred to perform in avenues such as Schutzhunde for many generations. In animal catching Bandogges, both English Bull Terrier and American Bulldog have also been employed, in particular in regions such as Australia where non-indigenous hogs have reached epidemic proportions and are otherwise prey only to the Saltwater Crocodile once mature.

Not only is the assertion that “why don't breeders simply cross Bandogs with other Bandogs. The answer is at the current stage of Bandog development, when one crosses a Bandog with another of its breed, the final product is not a Bandog. Bandogs do not breed true yet and it seems that Bandog breeders are far from having perfected a purebred dog.” Yet another poor attempt at research by drawing upon the opinion of a frankly unqualified author such as Semenic, it is patently false and in keeping with the ignorance presented prior; the Bandog is most often a tight mastiff/bull mastiff not a large pitbull (petbull/pulldog). The primary breeding practice in the initial generations is to backcross the first filial generation to the mastiff component of the breed, rather than to another F1 or the parent bull & terrier; because again, the effort is to produce a balanced, functional working mastiff, not a large pitbull. This is exactly the same type of process employed in the creation of all breeds and is no different in bandogs. The primary differentiator is the employment of traditional, rather than modern Kennel Club breeding practices that do not preclude selective line and even out-crossing to maintain both performance and health, even if it does sacrifice a degree of type.

I really don’t like the use of the word aggressive in the piece either, it is thrown around without care or attention to the readership, or the effects it might have upon them. In short and without wanting to sound too callous, critical or offensive, it is quite an amateurish piece in many regards when actually scrutinised, and I find it to be lacking. However, having seen the pieces on other breeds, such as the Presa Canario, which I’m reliably told is petitioned regularly by Dogo Canario breeders to ensure it states a view akin with their beliefs, this is one area in which Wikipedia falls down, given a lack of quality references to support submissions.

FRANKIE, Sch. III, Demo Dog for training and Demo Dog in schools, TV Star, Owned by Chris Carr in Pennsylvania

2006-12-23T19:11:00.000-05:00

Frankie, Home Invasion http://stronghaus.com/homein.html

Obedience Demo http://stronghaus.com/basic.html

http://www.stronghaus.com

SCRAPPY GIRL aka "Girl", FR Brevet & FR I , owned by Leri Hanson, California. Sire, Lucero's Mako; Neo x Pit, Dam, AB

2006-12-23T19:10:00.000-05:00

http://www.ca-k9services.com

More Pictures & Video

Brevet, Out Guard

Brevet, Recall from Bite

Brevet, Muzzle Heal

Brevet, Face Attack

Brevet, Defense of Handler

Brevet, Food Refusal

Brevet, Defense of Handler

Girl with Ron Marshall

Baby Girl with John Tuuri's Mae

Girls Littermates

Combat's Kismet, GDT, IDT3, CGC, FR Brevet & ACD, Winner of Hardest Hitting, owned by Becky In BC Canada,

2006-12-23T19:09:00.004-05:00

mailto:bc_bandogge@telus.net?subject=Bandogs

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Make an on-line slide show at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Make photo slide shows at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Make an on-line slide show at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Make video montages at www.OneTrueMedia.com

MORE VIDEOS HERE

Pictures from the French Ring Brevet trial and pics of training for it

Eric S aka "E-Dog's", Debo, Sch. BH, Training for PSA & Sch. Southern California

2006-12-23T19:08:00.013-05:00

"E is too blessed humble. If you could see the OB he has on Debo you'd flip! It's da shiznito fo' sho. I could

black market you some footie J/K. I got shotz n' I know he does too. I'll say this..Outta all the dogs I seen on

my last visit besides Wonder Womans(Leri's) dogs, Eric had the tightest OB outta all them. I visited anotha camp

where it's all GSD's and Debo woulda even shown a handful of them what was up!

Even with the helper suited up on the field..the dog has some fo'real CLARITY!

Try n' talk him into it cause not only is the dog VERY well trained.. He's got the most of the fundamental traits

for working LOCKED IN!

I mean Structure, Temp, Nerves, Drives, Character.. and BOND to top it off. The guy really rubs of on his dog.

Don't take that wrong.

FOr as much as E hails up everybody else he RARELY boast his own queso but IMO he's TOP NOTCH all da way." ~MaTi,

Hawaii

Manson Family Bandogs owned by Calvin and Antoine

Kimbo, Sch. BH

Leo, Sch. BH

Leo Sch. BH with Kimbo Sch. BH in the background above, and Leo and Kimbo below.

Max, Sch. BH

Southern Cross Tzu, owned by Ryan Hand, K9PS Australia, 1st place PP Division

Return to Heel in the Off Leash portion

Trublue's Shooter, owned by Maria Brian, 3rd Place K9PS Australia

2006-12-23T19:08:00.000-05:00

Trublue Bandogs & Neos

Southern Cross Fat Mick, owned by Katrina Hartwell of Southern Cross Kennels, K9PS Australia, 1st place DD

2006-12-23T19:07:00.000-05:00

Southern Cross Kennels

Lucero's Ajax, IDPL

2006-12-23T19:06:00.000-05:00

"The IPDL title goes to AJAX a very fine dog in his own right. I was the videographer for that event. His Call off was inches from the decoy after about a 50 yard send, and his hold bark was very intimidating, grips were only surpassed by his OB. Joe Lucero happens to be a VERY good trainer as well." ~Eric S. aka E-Dog, California

AJAX earning his IPDL TITLE:

MaTi's Hana Cane Corso x APBT, training for Schutzhund, Hawaii

2006-12-23T19:05:00.008-05:00

Tony the Bull's Atilla, bred by TTB, F1 Fila Brasiliero x APBT training for Iron Dog and other sporting events

Philippe Roy's, Voodoo F1 Rott x AB, FR Brevet Training, RIP Voodoo. Montreal, Canada

2006-12-23T19:05:00.000-05:00

Vader, owned by Antione Freeman, bred by Jason Gayle and David Merryman, Maryland, was training for PSA BST, RIP Vader

2006-12-23T19:04:00.001-05:00

Angus owned by Corey Tuhaka, 1st Place PP Division, K9PS Australia,

2006-12-23T19:04:00.000-05:00

Cognac, CGC, owned by Lindsay, training for Rally O Obedience

2006-12-23T19:02:00.000-05:00

Cognac is

(50%) Neo

(12.5%) Olde English Bulldog

(12.5%) Boxer

(12.5%) Dogue De Bordeaux

(12.5%) American Bulldog

and will possibly go on to do Therapy Work.

Diesel owned by Lindsay, training for Sch., will go for his BH in the spring.

2006-12-23T19:01:00.000-05:00

He is (50%) AB

(25%) Neo

(12.5%) Boxer

(12.5%) pit

Bailey, owned by Lindsay, training for Rally O Obedience

2006-12-23T19:00:00.001-05:00

Bailey is (50%) American Bulldog

(25%) Neo mastiff

(25%) Boxer

and she'll also do Therapy Work.

2006-09-14T00:46:00.001-05:00

Bandogge as defined by Thunderdome:

We use the term Bandogge to describe a dog made up of Bulldog and Mastiff blood. In our 15 years experience with the Bandogge breed, it is our opinion that more important than the breeds used to create a Bandogge, are the individual dogs you use. We have not limited ourselves to one particular cross, but have utilized excellent dogs from different mastiff breeds. The fact that we are not tied down by a breed standard allows us to breed dogs that will add the most to our breeding program. We are not breeding dogs for economics, this is our passion.

Bandogges History A Breed In Progress
by: Martin J. Leiberman

In the middle nineteen sixties John Bayard Swinford, VMD. Began crossing American Pit Bull Terriers with English Mastiffs. I had a similar ideology and we eventually introduced by a mutual acquaintance. John and I remained friendly for over three years. During that time we combined ideas and collaborated on a number of breed specific issues. Our goal was to breed a large super Mastiff, "a dog fearing nothing made of flesh." Our work began by crossing English Mastiffs with Pit Bulls. However, over time it became apparent that garnering English Mastiffs for this project was increasingly difficult. We needed to bring in an infusion of outside blood. We looked at our options and came up with the Italian Bull Dog, an ancient European Mastiff.

We liked the primitive over done appearance of the dog. We liked the natural suspicion exhibited by the breed. In addition, we liked the hard bonding characteristic of the breed. We didn't like the differential in skull size between the bitches and dogs. We also had a problem with the breed's lack of (prominent) dentition. Plus, many of the Italian Bull Dog bitches have a condition called cat face. These dogs lack length of muzzle (often times) impedes endurance and the ability to bite. The late Luigi Forina bred Italian Bull dogs, as they were affectionately called in those days. That was well before folks called them Neapolitan Mastiffs. Senior Forino lived on Logan Street in Brooklyn, not far from the queen's border. Luigi, allowed us to harvest blood from a well-made 240-pound stud dog. This blood was crossed back into our (existing) brood bitches.

We now had the fresh blood our project needed. The impact of the hybrid-vigor factor surfaced immediately. Without question we had created a superior mastiff. This being the first responsibility of the Bandogge project. Conversely, we also created an inferior American Pit Bull Terrier. However, the goal of the Bandogge breeder should not be to improve the Pit Bull Terrier, as this would prove to be futile. However, to improve the mastiff, with their many faults would be a reasonable challenge. Our primary focus would be to improve motor skills, to thicken nerves and capture a higher degree of gameness. One must never loose sight of an important historical fact. It took three hundred years to create the perfect bull and terrier cross. Having said this, it is also safe to assume the larger the dog the longer the journey to perfection.

One must view the Bandogge as an ongoing work in progress of a breed in progress. It is my opinion that our first generation breeding produced pups that were vastly superior to their Mastiff parents. This is not arrogance, but fact. Ergo, I am comfortable stating that the first segment of our genetic journey was a success. The breeding that followed continued to demonstrate reasonable gains. John Swinford died in the fall of 1972. I continued to breed and promote our project well into the next decade. I guess I became distracted by responsibility. I have not put pups on the ground for many years. In truth, I no longer have the temperament to deal with the voluminous numbers of un-coachable puppy buyers. Today's breeding environment has endless options. The modern breeder of Bandogges has a wealth of outside blood to infuse into his or her kennel. Rare breeds are no longer rare! The world has become smaller, more transparent and less mysterious.

In terms of the Bandogge project, I feel the best has yet to come! It is nice to see young people like Mario and Vicki Governale realize the true potential of the Bandogge. More importantly they are willing to run with the torch, and tackle (endless daily) kennel chores. Mario and Vicki own the Thunder Dome facility. The kennel is spacious, the atmosphere is feral and clean. I am pleased that folks like Mario and Vicki are so passionate about the development of the Bandogge. I am certain it would please John Swinford as well.

http://martinsk9formula.com/

Thunderdome Bandogs (click picture to go to picture gallery)

~Originally posted on Thunderdome Bandogs previous website

Modern History of the Neapolitan Mastiff by Maria Bryan

2006-06-21T21:11:00.000-05:00

Most people are at least vaguely aware of the ancient history of all Mastiffs. You will find many books on the subject, though how correct the information is, one often wonders, as there are frequently long gaps in the history or lineage of most breeds. Neapolitan Mastiffs are no exception. When you see things like; 'It is thought' or 'It is believed' or 'Most likely', you can be sure that in reality; It is not known.

What one author writes, many others will simply copy without a clue as to the facts. I have seen articles referring to Neos as 'Teddy Bears' or 'Gentle giants'. True a well reared dog is gentle toward his family and often even their guests. Regardless of this, he should NEVER be taken lightly, for that 'Teddy Bear' will turn in a second into a raging beast if his family or home is threatened.

It is CERTAIN that the Neapolitan Mastiff does belong to the family of dogs known of Old as the Molosser, and that these were dogs of war. It also stands as common sense that those dogs of Old were far fitter and tougher dogs than the romantic re-creation which is the Neapolitan of today.

We know roughly what those dogs of war looked like from artefacts, and paintings. These suggest that the larger of these dogs were left at home to guard, while the more active dogs were used to hunt or bring down large game, as well as march into battle.

We know that by the 1940's there were still a few dogs who bore more than a passing resemblance to the old Molosser as he used to be depicted. There were at that time no written records of lineage, nor were the dogs openly traded. They were bred and kept by both wealthy Italian landowners and poor farmers alike.

It was not until Piero Scanziani, a writer and journalist discovered them and brought them to the attention of the outside world, along with other fanciers of the breed, that the forerunners of the dogs we see today were promoted and records of lineage kept.

The dogs who were to be used in the reconstruction of this breed were gathered mainly from farms and estates around Naples.

Mario Queci was without doubt one of the most prolific and well known breeders from the early 1950s until he died in 1990. His kennel name, Di Ponzano, is in the pedigrees of most of the dogs we now have.

Two Old Style Neos above

In this last 50 odd years the appearance of the Neapolitan Mastiff has been changed considerably from the large but still functional animals the Italians had kept to themselves for so long. He has been taken to the extremes we see today, through becoming 'fashionable' his health has suffered considerably, for the traits that have been bred for mean that he often suffers from low thyroid function. This gives the huge bones, thickened skin which give the masses of wrinkle, and often shorted leg bones which is a form of dwarfism. He has been likened to people and other animals which suffer from Ehlos-Danlos Syndrome. These recessive traits which have been bred in often lead to health problems such as low immune system, low energy, sparse hair growth, skin conditions, bone deformities, cartilage and ligament problems, and bad hearts.

If this trend for breeding overblown dogs which can barely trot around the show ring, let alone follow his master to war as the Molosser of old often did, continues, I fear the breed will soon be bred into extinction.

Photos show us just how much the appearance has been changed in less than 50 years of breeding by those more concerned with fashion than with preserving this ancient dog for his marvellous temperament, guarding abilities, and character, which is like that of no other dog.

For the Neapolitan Mastiff to march forward into the future as fearlessly as he once marched off to war, his health problems must be addressed. The usual tests and x rays for hips etc. mean little in selecting for health in this breed. Although he does have loose joints, these seldom bother him. It would be more appropriate to test for Ehlos-Danlos syndrome, or at least to select the less typy dogs for breeding and stop the push for ever larger and more grotesque looking dogs.

This will mean getting back to the type of dog he was before the followers of fashion took him and made him an unfit icon to what they see as a romantic resurrection of the Old Molosser; albeit minus that ancient dogs abilities.

It is not too late. Nature has a marvelous way of fighting back. If given the opportunity these dogs can continue as the mighty guards and companions that those old Italians so wisely kept from the outside world for so long.

We need to start selecting for dogs which are still functional in size, and for the less typy dogs with some, but not excessive wrinkle. Dogs which have legs of appropriate length for their bulk. In doing this we will also automatically be selecting for the dogs less likely to have the symptoms of Ehlos- Danlos Syndrome. Such dogs will then have far better health, yet keep their instincts for guarding their home and owner intact, as they have done for centuries. Unlike many of the Mastiff types, the Neo remains as good a guard as ever he was. His courage and loyalty to his family unswerving.

Two fine examples of Neapolitan Mastiffs, prior to the dogs being selected for too many recessive genes which have led to many of the problems some lines have today.

Toto 1951

Don't know the history of this dog, but of working Neo type... This dog could have followed his master off to war! Far thinner than one would have for the household, but in fine working condition. Those muscles have come from exercise, not just starvation.

This is the famous Leone, a fine old type. We have a grandson of this dog at stud now. Neomostro Bambino.

Two fine dogs, on top from 1960's, on bottom from late 1970's. If you fancy the Neo, you should try to obtain the book by Mario Zacchi, "The Neapolitan Mastiff" first published in 1983. It is very hard to obtain now, but well worth the effort and cost if you can get a copy. Mr Zacchi mentions a few dogs getting up to 80kg. which was considered very big for a Neo back then. He says he can see no point whatsoever in breeding the Mastini any bigger than 80 kg. I believe that today's breeders have gone way too far, striving for ever larger and more typy animals at the cost of function and general health.

Abcalert, going back to the good old days!

Abcalert Fenrir has his Championship now, and is not yet a mature dog. He won Best of Breed and Best in Show at Perth 2004. His owner was told by the judge that he is the best moving Neo she has seen in years and she considered him an outstanding dog. He is not over sized or over typy. This goes to show that there is no need to be a follower of fashion to breed good dogs and yet still have dogs capable of winning in the show ring as well as having correct Neo temperament.

Abcalert Fenrir just a few points to go to get his Australian Championship.DONE, HE IS NOW AN AUSTRALIAN CHAMPION.

Some of Fenrir's show ribbons; which go to show that the fitter type of dog is well liked by many judges. This dog will mature into a very nice Neo.

Abcalert Murello, better known as Murphy, shown at around 7 months. I had half heartedly offered this dog for sale, but have withdrawn him from sale. He is typical of the old style of Neapolitan Mastiff which I admire and will be staying right here. Like most of our dogs, Murphy won't see the inside of the showring.

Murphy at one year old, not typy and at this age not a lot of wrinkle. Enough will return as he matures. This is usual in a good dog. They can get quite plain as they go through their 'teenage' stage. His temperament is all I could want; stable yet fearless and protective. Murphy also has a most engaging nature, he 'talks' to me and often also argues with me. Of sturdy build, yet not too large. He will mature by three into a great looking dog of what I feel is correct in a true Old type of Neapolitan Mastiff, unlike the unfortunate bitch in the photo below.

This bitch would be considered the epitome of the breed by most show breeders. Said to be a fit dog, but one would wonder, fit by what standards? She would certainly never follow an army to war, and I very much doubt she will live a long life. I do not believe that to take a breed and change it's appearance to the extent which these photos show in just over 50 years, is at all what those old Italian breeders would have approved of. They had kept these dogs safe and sound for centuries only to have a few enthusiasts inbreed the hell out of a very few individuals until this type of Neo came to be what many now see as the 'true Italian' type of Mastino.

I do not believe this to be the case, as this type of Neo can no longer function as the Molloser of Old did any more than the modern day British Bulldog can pull down and hold a bull as his forebears could. Abcalert will therefore continue to breed for what we see as the 'true' type of Neapolitan Mastiff. We are not followers of fashion, but leaders in keeping alive dogs bred with correct temperament and style as they were before a very small percentage of people decided to take the breed and turn them into what they see as an Icon, or some sort of romantic re creation of something which never did exist in the form they have given it today.

Abcalert Mario, this, I call a Neo. Fearless, protective, and fit as an athlete. He is as a draught horse is to a race horse, or a Greyhound to a Bulldog, but as Neos go, he's far more athletic than any lowslung over typy Neo can ever be.

Link to an interesting site in Germany, check out the agility page.

http://www.mastino-napoletano.de/agility.htm

Article Written by Maria Bryan of ABC Alert Trublue Bandogs
http://abcalert.com/

Bandog article written by Katrina Hartwell, Australia

2006-04-22T14:04:00.000-05:00

~Article first published in Boar it up Ya Magazine Australia~

Despite what some people may advertise, a Bandog is not a pure bred breed; it is a purpose bred, mixed breed working dog. The concept of the Bandog, a cross between Bull breeds and Mastiffs, is not a new. These types of dogs have been hunting boar, guarding homes, and being used as police and security dogs for thousands of years. Many breeds such as the Bullmastiff, Dogue De Bordeaux, and the Boerboel have been developed from careful selection of Bandog types.

Earliest written mention of them is from tribal Britain. They were big game hunters, guardians of property, person and livestock, and dogs of war. These dogs probably looked much like a lot of the heavier types of pig dogs being used in Australia today.

During the middle ages, Bandogs were used throughout Europe for their original purposes and also became participants in blood sports and were baited against man and beast. In England during this period the Bandog was solely owned by Nobleman. It was illegal for lower class people to own dogs of this type, an offense which was punishable by death. It was feared they would be able to successfully poach the Kings beasts should they have one.

The greatest influence to Bandog breeding came during the 1800's in the way of the Gamekeepers Night Dog, from which the Bull Mastiff breed emerged. These dogs were used to catch poachers and were powerful and agile. I think they are best described by W. Burton of Thorneywood Kennels:

"The typical Thornywood night dog should be no less than 80 lbs and if it be 100 lbs and fit and agile, all the better. It should be dark with a clean close coat with little in the way of markings for easy concealment at night. It should fear no man or group of men, no matter how sinister their intention. It should be able to face whip cudgel and shotgun with equal enthusiasm and show no shyness or fear of the aforementioned. Once engaged with its tormentor it should grip like a vice and fight like a lion and never relinquish its hold of its own accord, even if it comes to serious mischief and takes its death. In my charge he should be obedient and faithful. In my home or in his kennel he should be quiet and good tempered. There is no better or hardier dog than a good nightdog."

It's interesting to note that they were once Police dogs par excellence. The National Bull and Mastiff Police Registry was founded in 1926. The requirements for the registry were that dogs must pass all phases of police training to be accepted. Here's an extract from a letter to the club from Sgt. Cordy of the Walsingham Police Station:

"I want no better dog than a good Bullmastiff for police work and I am ready to back it against any breed. It may interest you to know that I have made an offer to one of my comrades who is an Alsationist, to train a Bullmastiff along side an Alsation to track and be more steady on the trail. The quarry will be a pretended fugitive and at the end of the trail the dog must close and catch the fugitive. A Gamekeeper friend recommended this breed to me and told me I would have no better breed. His words were true."

Sadly, in modern times most people have heard of the Bandog and relate them to the dog fighter John Swinford. Had he not had his name published in print he would have faded into obscurity, just as his dogs did. It is commonly believed that a Neapolitan Mastiff cross Pit bull is a true Swinford Bandog, however Dr. Swinford found the Neo to be lacking for his needs, and his best dog Bantu was actually from an English Mastiff bitch by a Pit bull.

A modern Bandog is only as good as its breeding. There are many different breeders with different goals, using different foundation breeds, so if you are looking for one of these dogs, it's important to find somebody who is breeding the type of dog you are looking for. It's also vital not to confuse aggression with protective nature, they are very different qualities. Savage dogs of any breed have no place in today's society.

For me a good Bandog is very similar to the dogs Mr. Burton describes above. An athletic yet powerful dog, capable of finding and catching pigs, obedient and faithful, laid back and problem free around the house, good with children, stable in all situations yet protective of his home and family when push comes to shove. Health is also very important, as although it's rare, these dogs can unfortunately inherit genetic health problems such as hip and elbow problems, cherry eye and immune system problems. They can also suffer from the heat a bit more than some other types and like to be part of the family. Dog and animal aggression should not be a problem in these dogs, but early and positive socialization is certainly necessary. Another draw back is they are late maturing dogs and for many, the closer they get to adulthood before they are started, the better.

If you can only have one dog and you are after a dog that will be protective of your family that you can also hunt on the weekend, or you just like square headed hunting dogs, then a Bandog may just be for you.

~Written by Katrina Hartwell, Australia
You can email her at pa11975@bigpond.net.au

Australian Bandog pics from Katrina Hartwell pa11975@bigpond.net.au

2006-04-22T13:36:00.000-05:00

Pig dogs, Therapy dogs, & Guardians

The Training, Use, and Abuse of Nightdogs

2005-12-03T00:01:00.000-05:00

Sporting Dogs: Their points and Management

Frank Townsend Barton M.R.C.V.S Published 1905

To Mr. W. Burton, of Thorneywood Kennels, Nottingham (per gamekeeper), I am indebted for the following account.

A perfectly trained and reliable night-dog is as useful to the gamekeeper as two or three additional assistants, and indeed, I personally heard old poachers remark they would rather face a dozen men than half that number accompanied by one of these animals, even if resistance would be offered at all where a dog was deployed against them. Such being the case, it makes one wonder why night-dogs are not more frequently used by gamekeepers in rough localities, and I'm afraid the animals have come into disrepute, owing to the manner in which their employment has been abused by careless watchers. It must not be supposed that a night-dog simply requires rearing, and then when old enough a muzzle has only to be put on and he will face everything he is encouraged to attack. The dog must be trained to his duty as a retriever is taught to bring in game, or he will never prove a satisfactory companion when poachers are about. When a puppy has been procured, he should be accustomed to wear a muzzle from an early age -five months for instance- and strangers should not be allowed to pet and caress him; on the other hand, they may tease him as much as they like, providing that he is not hurt. Of all the muzzles made I prefer those with a solid piece of leather beneath the jaw, and straps round the neck and nose having buckles so they may be manipulated as required. When a dog is ten months and used to wearing it's muzzle, he should be taken muzzled to a quiet place where you have previously arranged for a perfect stranger to be. This man should have a bag rolled up and strapped to one hand, and a glove on the other, and should be in hiding at the appointed spot; when the dog and his master get within a hundred yards or so, the stranger should 'break covert' and run out across the field. The dog at once must be released and encouraged to attack the man, his owner running with him the while. Upon the dog's coming up with his quarry, it is the duty of the latter to buffet him with the bag, pull his tail and flank, and tease him generally. Do not let this continue too long without a break, as a muzzled dog is soon winded. His master should reach the spot as quickly as possible, encourage him a little, and then take him off and loosen his muzzle; after a slight rest he may be permitted another run as before.

When the dog begins to display anxiety for the fray, the man may be provided with a thin cane, and instructed to give him a slight stroke or two, but, at this moment, great care should be taken to observe its effect. Some dogs, although game to a finish, are shy and sensitive, and a stroke with a stick will cause hesitation, not fear from the blow, but because an impression of doing wrong is conveyed thereby. Should the dog waiver at this treatment, relinquish the use of the stick for a time, and then introduce it again by degrees; if bred right, he will soon commence to resent it with fury. I have known pups from the same litter to vary greatly in the development of courage, one standing any amount of stick at a year, while others would not face it until six months older.

Such an instance I came across a short time ago. A keeper had a youngster from me and eighteen months later reported that it had been no good. I was surprised, and enquired if he had thoroughly tried the creature. "Yes!" said he, "I got one of the night-watchers to run across the park, and then set the dog on him. The dog followed all right, but when struck with the stick, returned to me and I shot him." This man knew I had retained one of the litter, and enquired how the puppy had progressed. I arranged for him to visit me and see the dog work, and he was surprised at what he witnessed. Afterwards I explained that an animal of this description required training, but my friend differed and asserted training ought not be necessary.

In no case should a dog be trained and tried on a lead of chain, or the result will be that he will not chase a man. Instead, he will only go for a poacher at close quarters, and then will continue to look round for his owner. Teach the dog to rely on himself. Some gamekeepers use their dog on a line rope and religiously keep hold of the end thereof, but the main reason for this I could never determine, unless to retain the animal for their own bodily protection. If so, the dog is not being put to his proper duty.

A night-dog is more valuable for catching a man than fighting one; still, he must be taught to give battle, because it is love of the scrimmage following which will cause him to give chase. A dog is certainly useful when a rough fight takes place, but he is doubly so when active poachers have a long start of their pursuers, for, if he jumps at a man, he is bound to bring his victim to the ground. Besides, if a dog refuses to chase a man, he is of no good in the case of a gang that freely stones the keepers, as then a resolute animal is a welcome assistant. The chances against the dog being hit with a stone as he makes for his assailants are ten to one, and once he is at close quarters, stones cannot be thrown at him for fear of comrades being struck, and while the animal is busy among the party the members of it will have plenty to do to stave off his attacks, and he will allow them little leisure for pelting the keepers who must now hasten to fight.

To hark back. Suppose the dog goes for the man when released and shows no fear for the stick, he must then be taught to keep up the attack and not have a jump or two and then return from the fray, allowing his foe an opportunity of escaping. As a means of accomplishing this, the dog's owner should be as close to the animal as possible and encourage him to maintain the assault. When it's plainly to be seen that he is scant of breath, at once take him off, because if permitted to become tired, the probability is that the dog will stand still, and, as the man promptly does the same, will return to his master, perhaps regarding the afray as over. Once he acquires the much-to-be-regretted habit of doing this, it will need some patience to correct it. It is a golden rule never to unduly exhaust a youngster, and then, when age has been acquired, he will be game all day or night.

Having progressed thus far, the dog should next be taught to find a man hidden in a ditch of up a tree. Candidly, this is a somewhat difficult undertaking, and it is not every night-dog which becomes clever in this particular. Instruct the man to secrete himself in a ditch at an opposite side of the field; be careful to give the dog wind, and in nine cases out of ten, will be noticed that he gazes as if looking for someone. Now move toward the hidden person and encourage the animal onward. As both near the ditch the dog will strongly detect the scent of his quarry, and at this point the hidden man should make a slight movement for the purpose of attracting the animal's attention. This action should be repeated until the discovery takes place, and, if the dog can thus be taught to use his nose, he quickly becomes adept at finding concealed poachers.

When this is asserted, it is not asserted that a man may lie despatched with few minute grace and if the dog is put upon the trail the man will be followed. Some bull mastiffs may become clever enough to foot the man but recent trials have proved that even bloodhound have to possess the best blood of training before they will unerringly hunt a man under these conditions.

Another important thing a night-dog should be taught is to at once leave a man he has thrown down and start after another of the men, when the keepers have arrived on the scene and laid hands on the first man. Suppose a party of watchers drop across half-a-dozen poachers, who all promptly take to their heels on seeing that the opposing side ire a match for them; the chances are the poachers get a good start, and are nearly certain to escape, if the dog is not competant to play his part. If he is capable, promptly slipped, and closely followed, he will soon bring one to book; he should then be taken of and encouraged to serve another likewise, and so on, until all have been arrested.

To train a dog to do this, two men should start at one time, both being armed with sticks. Instruct the two to keep together, and when they are well on the run slip the dog and follow him as before directed. When the animal gets close, the men must seperate; and he will confine his attentions to one; immediately the man he first attacks is down, despatch the dog after the second, who should be making good pace away, while his companion stands perfectly still. At first, the dog will plainly manifest that he prefers to stay and worry the one he has succeeded in defeating, rather than seek for fresh glories, but perservere with him until he does renew the chase without hesitation. You will succeed better in this if the second man is not allowed to get too far away, and it will be advisable for him to wave the stick and otherwise try to attract attention and invite attack. When the dog recognizes what is required of him, increase the distance between first and second man, or let each run in an opposite direction. It is very necessary that a dog should be taught to respect friends, that is, to attack only those at whom he is set, and then at no other time but when he is encouraged to do so. If he fails to learn this, he is as likely as not to go at one of the watchers, who happens to move or otherwise attract notice.

When a dog has been suffieciently tried to prove that he is game in every way, it is advisable to allow the man upon whom he has been exercising ill powers to sit near and endeavor to make friends with his four legged opponent. All dogs will not not consent to do the aggreable to this extent, but the majority will generally settle down and be quiet when they clearly understand that such behavior is expected. It is very necessary that the dog should learn to recognize when the battle is over and HIM having duly fulfilled his part he must be quiet, or it would be awkward to say the least, if a keeper has to struggle with the animal to take him off a captured poacher, and then the rascal takes advantage of the exhaustion of both keeper and dog, to escape.

A night-dog should never under any circumstances be tried on a person who may at some future time have to accompany the animal without watching. If so, the dog is nearly certain to go for this person when released for a scrimmage with poachers. Several instances like this have occurred, and in certain of them, the dog had not been tried on the watcher he attacked since a puppy. This proves that they do not easily forget the identity of an opponent.

There is one other thing a dog should learn, and, having acquired cleverness at in addition to the lessons mentioned previously, the animal may be regarded as the perfect night-dog. When lying out with a party of watchers he must not be allowed to get into the habit of curling himself up and going to sleep like a big fat pig. He must be taught to listen for the coming of poachers, as it is only natural that he should detect their approach by both sound and smell long before their advent on the tile scene is palpable to human senses. Some dogs do this naturally and the remainder only need encouragement to render them proficient watchers. If a young dog displays a tendency to fall asleep when out, arrange for a man to come to the scene just about the time the animal will be settled down. This individual should move as cautiously as he can, go straight to the dog, and have a good rough round with him. Repeat the dose at intervals, and the dog will soon take to watching attentively, expecting every sound to announce the appearance of the antagonist.

Never permit a night-dog to chase game or rabbits; if he is allowed to do this, the movements made by them will monopolize his attention, and the watchers will never be sure whether he is pricking up his ears at a rabbit rustling in the dead leaves or the approach of poachers; when released for a chase or scrimmage he will be likely to direct his attention towards the less noble game.

Opinions vary as to the weight a night-dog should attain, but a small dog, no matter how perservering he may be, cannot be so effective as one which has the qualities of being large, game, and active. Suppose a dog of 50 or 60 lbs weight only, were to jump at a man, the latter could not be knocked down. A clever poacher would wait his opportunity, catch the animal in his arms, and throw him over an adjacent wall or fence, well aware the dog could not jump back. A night-dog should not be less than 80 and if he is 100 lbs strong and active, so much the better. He ought to be able to jump a gate with ease and to get over ground at a good pace. For color, a brindle is to be preferred, not being so plainly visable at night as a red, fawn, or even black dog.

When a perfect dog has been bought or trained, every care should be taken that the animal is used properly. He should only be slipped at a man when absolutely necessary, and then must be securely muzzled. If a scrimmage becomes desperate and develops into a fight for life, the watchers must use their own discretion as to allowing then, dog freedom to bite; if his muzzle be taken off, the man he attacks will surely be marked in such a way that he will be easily identified. To slip a night-dog at lads trespassing for mushrooms, blackberries, etc., is the height of wanton folly, as the lads may be injured or terrified to a serious degree. Remember, it is best not to loose the dog at all if a man can be captured without his help, and he should be muzzled except in extreme cases. If a poacher who has his clothes torn and been bitten simply because he ran away is brought before magistrates, he may excite the pity of the latter, although he heartily deserves condemnation from his judges; besides, a civil action for damages may ensue.

It is entirely through forgetfulness of these rules that so many gentlemen object to night-dogs being used on their estates. But, if an animal of this kind is regarded in its proper light, and it's use not abused, its mere presence will do more to deter poaching then the employment of half-a-dozen extra hands.

Article originally posted by Dan Balderson

The Bandog Mastiff

2005-11-04T20:48:00.000-05:00

DaveUK's Bandog Marble of Nightwatch Kennels, bred by J7 of England

"the Mastyve or Bandogge is vaste, huge, stubborne, ougly and eager, of a hevy, and burthenous body, and therefore but of little swiftnesse, terrible and frightful to beholde, and more fearce and fell than any other Arcadian Curre."
~Dr. Caius 16th Century

General: The bandog is designed to be a close quarter combat dog. It excels in realistic protection and can be a wonderful companion/family dog for experienced dog owners. They are quite trainable and easy to maintain. It is naturally good natured, fond of children in general, extremely devoted to its owner and eager to work. Appearance is muscular, behavior is self assured, steady and fearless. It is basically a calm dog that transforms when a bad situation arises.

History: The Bandog philosophy of breeding has existed just about as long as domestic dogs themselves. Mankind developed fleet, nimble hunting dogs that fulfill the purposes of the hunter-gatherers, through to the large breeds that guard settlements and livestock. The progression toward breeding these heavier dogs to the smaller, more athletic dogs producing a medium type has been a natural process that has independantly occurred across several geographic regions. The resultant dogs proving to be more flexible across a greater variety of tasks. Bandogs have been used primarily for big game hunting and as guard dogs throughout the centuries. The first most organized and well documented approach and application of the Bandog was done by British "Gamekeepers" whose "Gamekeepers Night Dog" fulfilled the role of patrol companion and 'despatch dog' (capturing wounded game so they could be dispatched without undue suffering). The Gamekeepers Night Dog had an extremely dangerous job that often cost it its life. It had to locate and fight armed "Poachers" who would often find themselves fighting these dogs for their lives. In the 1820's, the "caught" poacher could see one shipped off to the colonies of Australia or America, if they were lucky, such punishments however, made desperate men. In France, similar types were bred to partake similar roles, the paralells even extending to nomenclature: Chien du Nuit...

~Written by Dan Balderson of England and Stelios Sdrolias of Greece

Stelios Sdrolias Bandogs http://www.bandog.gr

info@bandog.gr

Originally posted at http://www.pulldoggies.com/bandog.htm

Temperament

2005-11-04T20:05:00.000-05:00

Mentally these dogs are the very picture of stability. At times described as having "British" rather than "German" canine temperament. By which it is meant that whilst both should have high stimulus threshold and pack mentality, the British temperament does so without desire to assert rank whereby the German temperament is unflinchingly loyal to its master but affords itself as superior to all others. It is this subtle yet distinct difference that distinguishes breeds such as the Bandog and Bull Mastiff from the Rottweiler. When raised appropriately, this makes them utterly trustworthy with children, often becoming self-appointed custodians. Spirited when at play or work, they are otherwise calm, composed and easy going. Shows no signs of shyness, or needless apprehension. Always demonstrates a high tolerance as well as a quick recovery from stress. Impeccable ability in discerning between general human activities from behavior warranting suspicion or aggression. Possessed of a true 'On'/'Off' switch resultant from surpreme self-confidence making for a highly predicatable and stable dog that has nothing to prove in responsible hands. Strong balance of drives. Pronounced pack and fight drive, strong hunt, prey, and defense drives. Level-headed, responds positively to stress. Switches between drives with little outward physical indication, which can require an expert eye to discern. This balance of drives does not foster the outward manifestation of aggression but should not be taken for granted, as they will respond in kind when threatened, increasing their intensity in almost linear progression until the threat is dealt with. Can prove diffident or rambunctious when young. This behavior can be linked both to the maturation rate of larger breeds, as well as to environment and upbringing. Best developed in the hands of those that understand these differences, rather than those expecting to see similar behavior to that exhibited by traditional working breeds such as the shepherds.

Size: Males 100-125 lbs, Females 85-105 lbs

Todays Uses: The modern Bandog is primarily used as a home/family guardian but it is also the choice of an increasing number of Security agencies as a patrol and crowd control dog. It would make a good candidate for weight pulling and other K-9 sports that require raw physical strength and the eagerness to please their master. The desire of the dog to be with and please it's master coupled with a natural affinity toward exercise suits it to any activity. Furthermore, the very essence of the dog is one of a balance in structure, being free from needless exaggerations, greatly enhancing any dog's chances of leading happy, healthy and active lives as ideal companions.

~Bandog article written in its entirety by Dan Balderson of England and Stelios Sdrolias of Greece

Stelios Sdrolias Bandogs http://www.bandog.gr
info@bandog.gr

Originally posted at http://www.pulldoggies.com/bandog.htm