 Technically speaking, the Bandog Mastiff is not a "purebred" breed. Not in the way some of the other breeds are. These simply glorious dogs possess an ancestry that is part American Pit Bull Terrier and part Neapolitan Mastiff. And, as of now, the breed isn't recognized by any kennel clubs.
But don't let that deter you from considering ownership of this most exceptional canine. His history may be short, but he possesses an abundance of loyalty and love.
In fact, the breed as we know it today is only a little over 40 years old. The breed exists today thanks to the dedication of two american mastiff breeders. In the 1960s, John Swinford, an American veterinarian, decided to breed the "ultimate" guardian dog. He consistently crossed a male American Pit bull Terrier with a large, strong Neapolitan Mastiff female. Anther american mastiff breeder, by the name of Joe Lucero also had a hand in the evolution of this breed. He specifically refers to his dogs as American Bandog Mastiffs.
There are variations of this breed, but those developed by Lucero and Swinford produce the most stable dogs of the breed. They have an even temperament and are also excellent guard dogs.
You'll immediately recognize the American Bandog Mastiff by his prominent muscles as well as the "athletic" look he carries with him. Most of the individual dogs in this breed are black brindle, but there are some who are black, blue, red as well as tawny.
A surprising characteristic is the docility of the dog. For a dog who is bred for protection, he has a quiet, confident air about him (perhaps he realizes that he weighs in between 100 and 140 pounds or 45 to 63 kg!)
Even more impressive, the American bandog mastiff is highly intelligent. In fact, were Dr. Swinford alive today, he would likely be pleased to know that the bandog mastiff does make a great guard dog. As a whole, however, the breed has one small disadvantage in its guarding tasks. It doesn't like to bark. Most dogs bark a warning, so that owners not only know someone is around, but also to let intruders know that they shouldn't come any farther.
In addition, bandog mastiffs pine for attention. They're loyal friends and don't want to be left alone. If this is ever in doubt, just ask someone who's the neighbor of a bandog mastiff owner. These dogs are likely to howl the entire time owners are gone.
Typical of the breeds from which they come, this giants want nothing more than to be in the company of their owners, to please them, and, of course, to protect them. And the Bandog can indeed get along with other household pets, if, that is, they have been raised from "puppyhood" with them. In fact, they'll even get long with kittens and cats. If they haven't been socialized with an individual animal though, they can be aggressive.
Considering their massive size, you might think that this breed would not be comfortable in a small space such as an apartment. However, it's fine as long as you exercise your dog regularly. And make no mistake; your dog does need its exercise.
Grooming, too, is easy with this breed. The bandog mastiffs are very easy to take care of. As compared to other breeds, the American bandog mastiff is simply an "average shedder." As long as you brush your dog regularly, and remove dead hair, there should be no problems.
If you choose to let an American Bandog Mastiff into your home, you've just let him into your heart as well. You, your family and your new family member will enjoy many happy years together!
Nick Carpenter is a mastiff lover and wants to help you. Everything you want to know about raising & caring for your Bandog Mastiff is revealed. Come find out the right way to care for your mastiff now.
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