Bergamasco vs American Molossus - Breed Comparison

American Molossus is originated from United States but Bergamasco is originated from Italy. Both American Molossus and Bergamasco are having almost same height. American Molossus may weigh 10 kg / 23 pounds more than Bergamasco. Both American Molossus and Bergamasco has almost same life span. Both American Molossus and Bergamasco has almost same litter size. Both American Molossus and Bergamasco requires Moderate Maintenance.

Basic Information

Group:
Molosser dogs
Herding dogs
undefined
United States
Italy
Height Male:
56 - 66 cm
22 - 26 inches
58 - 62 cm
22 - 25 inches
Height Female:
51 - 60 cm
20 - 24 inches
54 - 58 cm
21 - 23 inches
Weight Male:
38 - 48 kg
83 - 106 pounds
32 - 38 kg
70 - 84 pounds
Weight Female:
32 - 43 kg
70 - 95 pounds
26 - 38 kg
57 - 84 pounds
Life Span:
10 - 14 Years
13 - 15 Years
Litter Size:
6 - 8
6 - 10
Size:
Giant
Medium
Other Names:
American Molosser • American Brabanter • American Bullenbeisser
Bergamasco Shepherd Dog, Cane da pastore Bergamasco
Colors Available:
Colors are black, black brindle with some white
Grey, sometimes black
Coat:
coat type coarse, dense, smooth and long
Coarse, long shaggy dreadlocks
Shedding:
Minimal
Minimal
Temperament:
Alert, Courageous, Independent, Intelligent, Loving, Loyal, Protective, Quiet, Territorial
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Territorial
Grooming:
Moderate Maintenance
Moderate Maintenance
Trainability:
Moderate
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
Yes
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
No
Yes

History

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.

bergamascoThe Bergamasco comes from northern Italy. This medium sized sheepdog is of ancient origin. Known as an Italian sheep herding breed, his name actually comes from the town where he comes from - Bergamo.

It was after World War II that there was danger that this breed would disappear as the need for herding and shepherding was diminishing. An Italian breeder, however, Dr. Maria Andreoli, stepped in to save the breed.

It was in 2015 that the American Kennel Club also changed the breed’s status from Miscellaneous to the Herding Group.

Description

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.

A Rastafarian Look

bergamasco puppy - descriptionThis medium sized sheepdog stands 54 – 62cm in height and weighs up to 38 kg as an adult. It is his coat which draws the most attention. It is of a coarse texture and actually greasy to the touch. It actually forms into strands or almost like dreadlocks from the top of the body, so that people agree he is one of shaggiest dog breeds there are.

From age 1 on the coat starts to become woolly, and then the flocks start to form. As these clumps of hair appear, it will become necessary to separate them into smaller cords by hand to ensure attractive formation Brushing isn’t necessary but a big toothed comb can keep their hair ‘groomed’.

The colour of the coat is solid grey with patches of shades of grey and sometimes black. His dense, heavy coat makes it that he is suited to cooler climates. Because he is a herding dog, he wouldn’t do well in an apartment but would suit a home with a large garden.

Intelligent and Playful

He is intelligent and social but will need firm handling as he is a boisterous dog. He has a muscular yet compact body with a large head, long tail, high-set semi-drooping ears and large, gentle looking brown eyes. Although not instinctively aggressive, he makes an excellent watch dog with strong protective instincts to protect his human family.

He views new people into his circle with suspicion and wariness. He is good with kids and pets in the home and is playful and energetic.

Characteristics

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.

bergamasco dog - characteristicsThis is a working dog so they are naturally alert. He is also intelligent and independent and this independence is seen with training as he doesn’t take easily to following instructions, becoming stubborn. You’ll certainly want to have your Bergamasco socialized and trained as he can be a boisterous dog, bounding with energy.

This is a dog that will need to be kept busy and provided with plenty of activities so that he remains happy, playful and relaxed.

Lively and intelligent, these dogs also form strong bonds with their owners and get on well with the children in the home. He will take well to country life as opposed to living in the city.

Health Problems

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.

bergamasco puppies - health problemsYour Bergamasco can live to be 13 to 15 years of age and he is considered to be a healthy breed. Nonetheless you want to be aware of health issues that are common to this breed

he is vulnerable to heat. He can die of heat exhaustion quicker than other breeds

keep an eye on him for hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy and skin allergies

Caring The Pet

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.

Grooming

bergamasco dogs - caringThe Bergamasco isn’t a shedder but his coat will need to be combed once a week just to keep it in order. You don’t want to bath him too often, especially during the Winter as his coat takes a long time to dry. It isn’t recommended to shave a Bergamasco as the coat regulates the dogs temperature – keeping him warm and cold as the weather demands.

Foods

They thrive on a blend of kibble (dry) mixed with raw and-or moist food once or twice a day. Remember to include quality chicken, turkey, etc. mixed with some vegetables and rice into your dog’s diet. Ensure a constant supply of fresh water in an easily-cleanable bowl.

Exercise

Balls and ropes are important for building muscle strength and burning energy. Remember your Bergamasco is a working breed and will need plenty of games and exercise.

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Bergamasco vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  2. Bergamasco vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  3. Bergamasco vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  4. Bergamasco vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  5. Bergamasco vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  6. Bergamasco vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  7. Bergamasco vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  8. Bergamasco vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  9. Bergamasco vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  10. Bergamasco vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  11. Bergamasco vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  12. Bergamasco vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  13. Bergamasco vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  14. Bergamasco vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  15. Bergamasco vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  16. Bergamasco vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  17. Bergamasco vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  18. Bergamasco vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  19. Bergamasco vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  20. Bergamasco vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  21. Bergamasco vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  22. Bergamasco vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  23. Bergamasco vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  24. Bergamasco vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  25. Bergamasco vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  26. American Molossus vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  27. American Molossus vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  28. American Molossus vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  29. American Molossus vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  30. American Molossus vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  31. American Molossus vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  32. American Molossus vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  33. American Molossus vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  34. American Molossus vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  35. American Molossus vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  36. American Molossus vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  37. American Molossus vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  38. American Molossus vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  39. American Molossus vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  40. American Molossus vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  41. American Molossus vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  42. American Molossus vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  43. American Molossus vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  44. American Molossus vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  45. American Molossus vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  46. American Molossus vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  47. American Molossus vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  48. American Molossus vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  49. American Molossus vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  50. American Molossus vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison