The Ancient Molosser Dogs
The Molosser Dogs either do not fit the criteria of the other breed groups, or may no longer perform the tasks they were originally bred for. These sometimes huge dogs all make wonderful family companions... some of the most popular being the Boxer, Bulldog and Rottweiler.
There is a lot of debate over the origins of molosser dogs, but it can be assumed that they decsended from the Assyrian Mastiffs of central Asia some 11,000 years ago. These huge animals were used as livestock guardians for thousands of years, and are the ancient ancester of the Tibetan Mastiff. The Tibetan Mastiff is generally regarded as the foundation breed for the Molosser dogs.
Molosser dogs in poetry
Some quotes from the past regarding the ancient Molossian breed of dog.
The poet Grattius:
"If you are not bent on looks and deceptive graces, when serious work has come, when bravery must be shown, and the impetuous War-god calls in the utmost hazard, then you could not admire the renowned Molossians so much."
From Oppian:
"Impetuous and of steadfast valour, who attack even bearded bulls and rush upon monstrous boars and destroy them....They are not swift, but they have abundant spirit and genuine strength, unspeakable and dauntless courage."
Molossian breeds
Molosser dogs include the Boerboel, Boxer, Bulldog, Bullmastiff, Chinese Shar-Pei, Great Dane, Mastiff, St. Bernard and Rottweiler, to name just a few. All molosser dogs are characterized by their huge strong frames and heavy skull and bone structure. Molosser dogs excel at guarding property, pulling sleds and performing rescues.
Search for "molosser dog breeds"
News continually updated from thousands of sources across the web
English Bulldog Puppies For Sale: Ensure The Puppies Are Healthy
7 May 2008 at 12:00am
Before choosing a source that is offering English Bulldog puppies for sale, you need to be sure that you understand that buying Bulldog puppies is not like picking up a catalog and ordering your Bulldog.
Discover More About Boxer Dog Breed
23 Apr 2008 at 12:00am
Boxer dogs are magnificent family dogs. Just train them well and treat them right... The Boxer dog is actually a descendant of two breeds, the English Bulldog and the now extinct Bullenbeisser.
Stena Line is Best of Breed for Canines Cruising to Holland for Dog Shows
22 Nov 2007 at 4:49am
Stena Line invites passengers to bring their hot dogs and cool canines to Holland by ferry to take part in continental dog shows.
Stena Line is best of breed for canines cruising to Holland for dog shows
21 Nov 2007 at 6:59am
Stena Line invites passengers to bring their hot dogs and cool canines to Holland by ferry to take part in continental dog shows.