Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs American Molossus - Breed Comparison

Staffordshire Bull Terrier is originated from United Kingdom but American Molossus is originated from United States. Staffordshire Bull Terrier may grow 25 cm / 9 inches shorter than American Molossus. Staffordshire Bull Terrier may weigh 31 kg / 68 pounds lesser than American Molossus. Both Staffordshire Bull Terrier and American Molossus has almost same life span. Both Staffordshire Bull Terrier and American Molossus has almost same litter size. Staffordshire Bull Terrier requires Low maintenance. But American Molossus requires Moderate maintenance

History

staffordshire bull terrier - historyThe Staffordshire Bull Terrier was first developed in the northern sections of Birmingham and in Staffordshire, England. The Staffie is a cross between a Black and Tan Terrie and the Bulldog, but had other breeds crossed in over time in order to create a bull-baiting dog and a fighting dog. In the Victorian age these sports were banned but dog fighting went underground and continues on some level today.

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was exceptional at these “sports” due to his build, power and jaw strength. Today’s Staffie is a descendent of those early Bull Terrier crosses. Together with the Bull Terrier and the American Pit Bull, the Staffie also traces its roots back to those original English Bully dogs. All three breeds have the Bulldog in common.

After dog fighting and bull baiting were banned the Stafforshire Bull Terrier was further developed as a companion and pet. Still their reputation as fighting dogs cost them recognition in the official kennel clubs for some time. They finally made the UK registry in 1935, but it was not until 1974 that the American Kennel Club (AKC) accepted them.

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

Description

staffordshire bull terrier puppy - descriptionThe Staffordshire is a muscular, stocky and unusually strong breed, small to medium size in height and build. They have broad, powerful chests, wide set, strong legs, strong shoulders, broad head with a fairly short muzzle. Their ears are not cropped but they are short and fold over. The coat is stiff, close and short and the tail is medium and carried low. Most Staffies are brown, but they can be red, brindle with white, fawn, black, white or blue.

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

staffordshire bull terrier dog - characteristics1.Children friendliness The breed adores children but care should still be taken because they are so strong and their jaws are so powerful.

2.Special talents they adore children and they one of the most powerful jaws among canines.

3.Adaptability they need exercise and space, they are not apartment dogs.

4.Learning ability very smart, but very stubborn

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

The breed is basically healthy, but they do have some hereditary health issues.

  • Hip and elbow dysplasia- can cause arthritis.

staffordshire bull terrier puppies - health problems• Patella luxation otherwise known as a slipped kneecap- can cause pain and some lameness.

• Skin allergies and even a tendency toward Mange which is chronic in some forms and fatal in others.

  • Heat issues and breathing issues due to their short, compressed faces.

• Like most active dogs their size, they are susceptible to bloat which can be fatal if not treated immediately.

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

staffordshire bull terrier dogs - caring1.Feeding the puppy Don’t over feed as he grows fast. Feed a high quality dog food for medium size puppies. Feed 1-2 and a quarter cups in 3-4 meals per day.

2.Feeding the adult Don’t exercise right before or after eating due to potential for bloat. Feed 1-2 times a day a high quality medium breed dog food.

3.Points for Good Health immense strength and power.

4. Games and Exercises They are terriers after all and they dig. Need a fairly large yard with a strong fence. They love to play ball, frisbee and can excel at cart pulling.

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:
Terrier dog
Molosser dogs
Origin:
United Kingdom
United States
Height Male:
36 - 41 cm
14 - 17 inches
56 - 66 cm
22 - 26 inches
Height Female:
34 - 39 cm
13 - 16 inches
51 - 60 cm
20 - 24 inches
Weight Male:
13 - 17 kg
28 - 38 pounds
38 - 48 kg
83 - 106 pounds
Weight Female:
11 - 15 kg
24 - 34 pounds
32 - 43 kg
70 - 95 pounds
Life Span:
12 - 15 Years
10 - 14 Years
Litter Size:
5 - 7
6 - 8
Size:
Medium dog
Giant dog
Other Names:
bully, pit bull English Staffordshire Bull Terrier • Staffie • Staffy • Stafford • Staffordshire
American Molosser • American Brabanter • American Bullenbeisser
Colors Available:
black or blue, white, any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white, Red, or any one of these colours with white, fawn
Colors are black, black brindle with some white
Coat:
Smooth, short and close
coat type coarse, dense, smooth and long
Shedding:
Minimal
Minimal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Courageous, Curious, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Loving, Playful, Responsive, Stubborn
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:
No
No

Comparison with other breeds

  1. English Mastiff vs American Molossus - Breed Comparison
  2. Neapolitan Mastiff vs American Molossus - Breed Comparison
  3. American Mastiff vs American Molossus - Breed Comparison
  4. Gaddi Kutta vs American Molossus - Breed Comparison
  5. Nebolish Mastiff vs American Molossus - Breed Comparison
  6. Cao de Gado Transmontano vs American Molossus - Breed Comparison
  7. Broholmer vs American Molossus - Breed Comparison
  8. Great Dane vs American Molossus - Breed Comparison
  9. Bernese Mountain Dog vs American Molossus - Breed Comparison
  10. Newfoundland Dog vs American Molossus - Breed Comparison
  11. Anatolian Shepherd vs American Molossus - Breed Comparison
  12. Leonberger vs American Molossus - Breed Comparison
  13. Alaunt vs American Molossus - Breed Comparison
  14. Bully Kutta vs American Molossus - Breed Comparison
  15. Irish Wolfhound vs American Molossus - Breed Comparison
  16. Alangu Mastiff vs American Molossus - Breed Comparison
  17. Francais Blanc et Orange vs American Molossus - Breed Comparison
  18. Mountain Burmese vs American Molossus - Breed Comparison
  19. Billy vs American Molossus - Breed Comparison
  20. Pyrenean Mastiff vs American Molossus - Breed Comparison
  21. Bisben vs American Molossus - Breed Comparison
  22. Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs American Pit Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  23. Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  24. Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Schnauzer - Breed Comparison
  25. Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  26. Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Fox Terrier - Breed Comparison
  27. Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Bull and Terrier - Breed Comparison
  28. Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Bedlington Terrier - Breed Comparison
  29. Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Irish Terrier - Breed Comparison
  30. Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Fox Terrier (Smooth) - Breed Comparison
  31. Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Kerry Blue Terrier - Breed Comparison
  32. Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Austrian Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  33. Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Lakeland Terrier - Breed Comparison
  34. Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  35. Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Jagdterrier - Breed Comparison
  36. Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Blue Paul Terrier - Breed Comparison
  37. Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Indian Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  38. Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Irish Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  39. Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Japanese Terrier - Breed Comparison
  40. Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Brazilian Terrier - Breed Comparison
  41. Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Old English Terrier - Breed Comparison
  42. Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Scoland Terrier - Breed Comparison
  43. Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Skye Terrier - Breed Comparison
  44. Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Irish Staffordshire Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  45. Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier - Breed Comparison
  46. Welsh Terrier vs Staffordshire Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds