Schweenie vs American Molossus - Breed Comparison

Schweenie is originated from United Kingdom but American Molossus is originated from United States. Schweenie may grow 16 cm / 6 inches shorter than American Molossus. Schweenie may weigh 39 kg / 85 pounds lesser than American Molossus. Both Schweenie and American Molossus has almost same life span. Schweenie may have less litter size than American Molossus. Schweenie requires Low maintenance. But American Molossus requires Moderate maintenance

History

schweenie - historyThe Schweenie is a hybrid dog, with the parent breeds being the Shih Tzu and the Dachshund.

The Schweenie dog has been around for about 4 decades when breeders were looking for a dog that would be free of the health issues of the purebred parent breeds.

Because the Schweenie is a mix breed, it doesn’t qualify to be part of the American Kennel Club. He is however recognized by the Designer Breed Registry and some other clubs.

Based on the massive dog of Mesopotamia in 5000 BC, the American Molossus is the same dog recreated in the United States by and for the lovers of these giant dogs. The ancient Molossus was fierce to look at, massive in size, courageous and loyal. He was undaunted by any animal and stood up to any man attempting to hurt his master. When Rome fell the descendants of today’s Molossus were scattered and attempts to revive the breed have created carious large dogs. The American Molossus is the first true recreation that hits the mark.

The original Molossus was one of the most primitive of dogs, one of the earliest dogs that men domesticated. Their initials duties were the guarding of herds and homes against all enemies. They were incredibly loyal to their one master and stayed with him and protected him. These dogs also ate carrion and served the villages by eliminating animal carcasses. They could handle any other hunting animals such as wolves and large cats. This dog, although extinct was the ancestor of all the Mastiff-type dogs of today. The Molossus is said to be the ancestor of the St. Bernard, English Mastiff, Greater Swiss Mountain Dog, Bernese Mountain Dog, Newfoundland, Great Dane, Great Pyrenees, Rottweiler, Rottweiler and the Neapolitan Mastiff. Now these breeds have become the ancestry of the American Molossus.

According to Marcus Curtis, the founder of the new Molossus, the nearest relative of the American Molossus is the Neapolitan Mastiff. The Hines Bulldog, German Rottweiler, American Bandogge, and South African Boerboel together with the Neapolitan Mastiff were used to form the American Molossus. The goal of the founder was to make a great family pet and protector. It was specifically bred to be courageous, loyal and protective.

Description

schweenie puppy - descriptionThe Schweenie will be a smallish dog standing at roughly 27cm to 50cm and weighing 4 – 9kg.

Because of the Dachshund parent, he will likely have a long body. The coat is shortish to medium length and can be a variety of colors – from a rusty color to brown, black, grey and even a cream shade. The ears are floppy and the tail medium length.

Temperament:

He is a small dog who is smart and bright and who wants to please his human owners. He loves people and wants to be around them and involved in their activities.

Small and cute though he is, he can be a stubborn dog and become a little big aggressive too if he is feeling a bit moody. He will need to be trained and socialized if you want him to obey your simple commands such as sit, stay, lie down and come.

He is intelligent enough to learn these simple commands with ease.He is both alert and vigilant, and this makes them good watchdogs.

This is a giant, massive dog in every way and this recently developed standard makes that very clear. The Molossus should be heavy bones, muscular with a lot of loose skin and wrinkles of all kinds, everywhere. He is an intimidating presence, with a massive square head, broad shoulders, height and mass. No, the American Molossus is not athletic, but he certainly is intimidating.

His head is massive in comparison to his body and it must be square. He has extensive wrinkles and pendulous lips and dewlap. The face is all folds of skin and wrinkles. Deep set eyes, drooping upper lids and lower lids as well as an intimidating expression. His brow is well developed with a marked frontal furrow. The nose is large, and the muzzle is about a third of the length of its head. It is short and broad. Everything about the head must be square. It’s neck and body are powerful and muscular. The chest is deep, wide and barrel like. The back is also powerful and muscular. The front legs are heavy and muscular while the hind legs are broad, strong, powerful and wide-stance. Do not remove the front dew claws. His tail is thick and wide then gradually tapers at the tip.

Characteristics

schweenie dog - characteristicsThe Schweenie can be somewhat reserved and they need exercise regularly as well. If they don’t get enough exercise, they tend to become jittery and this can make them become a bit snappy. The are more prone to be snappy and aggressive with children who haven’t been taught how to treat animals gently and with respect.

They’re small enough to adjust to life in the city or countryside but will still need to be exercised.

The little Schweenie, with the right kind of owner can become a great little pet and companion.

The American Molossus is an intimidating massive giant bred for protection and guard duty. He is incredibly loyal to his family and courageous in his protection of them. They are guard dogs, not attack dogs. Their simple appearance is usually enough to frighten off anyone intending harm on their families. He is in reality a loving giant. He is intelligent and stable with a strong desire to please his owner. He is a calm yet vigilant presence in the home.

Because the Molossus is so large, it is recommended that the puppy be socialized and trained professionally. It takes a strong owner to handle this breed. They need to know the rules and have the rules consistently applied. The owner must be the pack leader.

Health Problems

schweenie puppies - health problemsWith good care, your Schweenie can live to be 12 to 15 years of age. Every dog, no matter how healthy, can get some of the health problems that plague many dogs.

Intervertebral Disk Disease:

This is where the cushions between each vertebra come into contact with the spinal cord. It can result in nerve damage and sometimes even paralysis. Because the Shih Tzu is one of the parent breeds, you will need to be aware of this ailment as these dogs are more susceptible to this disease.

Hypoglycemia:

Hypoglycemia is fairly common in small dogs and it is where there is a drop in blood sugar. It can be brought on by stress. It can also be referred to as low blood sugar and it can be deadly. If your pet is hypoglycemic, you will notice a loss in appetite, extreme lethargy, trembling and unusual behavior. You will need to get your Schweenie to the vet immediately for tests and treatment.

Like all Mastiffs the American Molossus faces a variety of potential illnesses, some brought on by its size, some not.

Spondylosis

This could easily be a function of its massive size. It is a degenerative disease and can cause the dog to become lame. In many cases the vertebrae can fuse, or severe pain can result. This is mostly seen in older members of the breed.

Cystinuria

Male Molossus can contract this inherited metabolic disease primarily. It can be life threatening and very serious as it affects the kidney and the bladder.

Wobblers Syndrome

This is essentially Cervical Vertebral Instability (CVI) and is caused by the pressure of the nerves in the neck and cervical spinal cord. This compression can cause deformity, pain and abnormal stance/gait. IT has been attributed to the nutrition needs and rapid growth of the Mastiff breeds.

Like all giant Mastiff breeds the Molossus can have skin issues from the wrinkles, dysplasia in the joints which we will address below.

Caring The Pet

schweenie dogs - caringYour Schweenie will need to be brushed at least twice a week to rid him of loose hairs. Because of his floppy ears, you will need to clean them and check for redness. If you don’t like the idea of probing inside the ear, professional groomers or the vet will do it for you.

Trim his nails if they don’t wear down on their own.

Provide him with a nice dry, warm spot to sleep.

Provide him with nice chewy toys that will keep him occupied.

Exercise him every day. Taking him on walks and playing ball games with him will keep him fit and trim but also help with staving off boredom.

Ensure his vaccines against deadly diseases are up to date. See that he gets to the vet when he appears to be under the weather.

He is a small dog so you have to be careful about how you feed him. You need to feed him a nutrient-rich dry kibble. Read the packaging and buy dog food according to his size, age and activity levels.

Try and include some home-made food into your dogs diet. A little bit of boiled chicken, brown rice or pasta, sweet potatoes, carrots and spinach all chopped up will do him good and can be added into the dry kibble twice a week. Some raw meat should also occasionally be added in as this can help to prevent some skin problems. Be sure that cool, fresh water is available for your pet at all times.

Feeding

Remembering that this is a very, very large dog you need to be careful about nutrition and how fast your puppy will grow. American Molossus puppies need four meals a day until 12 weeks old. Then until they are 6 months old feed then 3 times a day. Finally, from 6-month-old puppy to adult – feed them twice in 24 hours.

At one year either feed them once or two small meals.

Many people feed their Molossus eggs, vegetables, fruit, and cottage cheese as ten 5 of the total for the day but avoid other table foods. The Molossus can become very picky about what he eats if you feed him too many table scraps.

Health issues

In addition to the health problems listed above, the American Molossus is also susceptible to: Ditichiasis – Eyelashes that are in the margin of the eyelids and can cause eye irritation. May require surgery to correct.

Cataract

Could cause blindness if not removed. Ectropian/Entropion: Eversion and inversion of eyelids which cause ocular irritation.

PRA or Progressive Retinal Atrophy

This is a degenerative disease which causes the dog to go blind. It is a disease the affects the retinal visual cells, first causing night blindness then day blindness. A DNA test is available for detecting PRA in all Mastiff breeds.

Dysplasia of the Elbow or/and the Hip

Common in large breeds and especially in giant breeds like the Molossus. Multiple forms and causes but all can cause pain and lameness.

Skin issues

Do to wrinkles and loose skin – check often for moisture and infections.

Panosteitis or Wandering Lameness

The is a problem based on a variety of possible causes. It happens when the puppy is between 6-16 months of age. Lameness occurs over time in one limb or in all. It can be intermittent and might be caused by diet, genetics, stress, autoimmune or metabolic issues or infection.

HOD or Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy

This issue is developmental as the dog’s toes turn either inward or outward, then as the condition advances the dog suffers fever, pain in all joints, lethargy and the inability to stand. This happens when the dog consumes too many calories for his activity level in the development times.

Exercise and games

The American Molossus is not a couch potato. He needs to be walked at least twice a day and loves to play fetch. He will be greatly benefited by obedience training. Do not overdo it with exercise but make sure they don’t just lay around.

Basic Information

Group:
Companion dog
Molosser dogs
Origin:
United Kingdom
United States
Height Male:
27 - 50 cm
10 - 20 inches
56 - 66 cm
22 - 26 inches
Height Female:
27 - 50 cm
10 - 20 inches
51 - 60 cm
20 - 24 inches
Weight Male:
4 - 9 kg
8 - 20 pounds
38 - 48 kg
83 - 106 pounds
Weight Female:
4 - 9 kg
8 - 20 pounds
32 - 43 kg
70 - 95 pounds
Life Span:
12 - 15 Years
10 - 14 Years
Litter Size:
2 - 5
6 - 8
Size:
Small dog
Giant dog
Other Names:
None
American Molosser • American Brabanter • American Bullenbeisser
Colors Available:
grey and cream shade, Rusty color to brown, black
Colors are black, black brindle with some white
Coat:
Medium length, wavy or straight
coat type coarse, dense, smooth and long
Shedding:
Moderate
Minimal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Aggressive, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Docile, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Territorial
Alert, Courageous, Independent, Intelligent, Loving, Loyal, Protective, Quiet, Territorial
Grooming:
Low maintenance
Moderate maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Moderate
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
No

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Schweenie vs Bichon Frise - Breed Comparison
  2. Schweenie vs Mal-Shi - Breed Comparison
  3. Schweenie vs Alaskan Klee Kai - Breed Comparison
  4. Schweenie vs Coton De Tulear - Breed Comparison
  5. Schweenie vs Japanese Spitz - Breed Comparison
  6. Schweenie vs Malti-Pom - Breed Comparison
  7. Schweenie vs PekePoo - Breed Comparison
  8. Schweenie vs Schipperke - Breed Comparison
  9. Schweenie vs Fruggle - Breed Comparison
  10. Schweenie vs Lhasapoo - Breed Comparison
  11. Schweenie vs Meliteo Kinidio - Breed Comparison
  12. Schweenie vs Hawaiian Poi Dog - Breed Comparison
  13. Schweenie vs Prazsky Krysarik - Breed Comparison
  14. Schweenie vs Pugalier - Breed Comparison
  15. Schweenie vs Kyi-Leo - Breed Comparison
  16. Schweenie vs Muggin - Breed Comparison
  17. Tsvetnaya Bolonka vs Schweenie - Breed Comparison
  18. Scottish Terrier vs Schweenie - Breed Comparison
  19. Schweenie vs Pomeranian - Breed Comparison
  20. Schweenie vs Maltese - Breed Comparison
  21. Schweenie vs Pug - Breed Comparison
  22. Schweenie vs Boston Terrier - Breed Comparison
  23. Schweenie vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  24. Schweenie vs Maltipoo - Breed Comparison
  25. Schweenie vs Cavalier King Charles Spaniel - Breed Comparison
  26. English Mastiff vs American Molossus - Breed Comparison
  27. Neapolitan Mastiff vs American Molossus - Breed Comparison
  28. American Mastiff vs American Molossus - Breed Comparison
  29. Gaddi Kutta vs American Molossus - Breed Comparison
  30. Nebolish Mastiff vs American Molossus - Breed Comparison
  31. Cao de Gado Transmontano vs American Molossus - Breed Comparison
  32. Broholmer vs American Molossus - Breed Comparison
  33. Great Dane vs American Molossus - Breed Comparison
  34. Bernese Mountain Dog vs American Molossus - Breed Comparison
  35. Newfoundland Dog vs American Molossus - Breed Comparison
  36. Anatolian Shepherd vs American Molossus - Breed Comparison
  37. Leonberger vs American Molossus - Breed Comparison
  38. Alaunt vs American Molossus - Breed Comparison
  39. Bully Kutta vs American Molossus - Breed Comparison
  40. Irish Wolfhound vs American Molossus - Breed Comparison
  41. Alangu Mastiff vs American Molossus - Breed Comparison
  42. Francais Blanc et Orange vs American Molossus - Breed Comparison
  43. Mountain Burmese vs American Molossus - Breed Comparison
  44. Billy vs American Molossus - Breed Comparison
  45. Pyrenean Mastiff vs American Molossus - Breed Comparison
  46. Bisben vs American Molossus - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds