Molossus vs American Eskimo Dog - Breed Comparison

American Eskimo Dog is originated from United States but Molossus is originated from Greece. American Eskimo Dog may grow 28 cm / 11 inches shorter than Molossus. American Eskimo Dog may weigh 39 kg / 85 pounds lesser than Molossus. Both American Eskimo Dog and Molossus has almost same life span. American Eskimo Dog may have less litter size than Molossus. American Eskimo Dog requires High Maintenance. But Molossus requires Moderate Maintenance

Basic Information

Group:
Herding dogs
Molosser dogs
undefined
United States
Greece
Height Male:
23 - 48 cm
9 - 19 inches
50 - 76 cm
19 - 30 inches
Height Female:
23 - 40 cm
9 - 16 inches
50 - 76 cm
19 - 30 inches
Weight Male:
4 - 16 kg
8 - 36 pounds
25 - 55 kg
55 - 122 pounds
Weight Female:
3 - 12 kg
6 - 27 pounds
25 - 55 kg
55 - 122 pounds
Life Span:
13 - 15 Years
10 - 16 Years
Litter Size:
1 - 5
5 - 9
Size:
Small
Large
Other Names:
, Spitz
Molosser, Mastiff-type
Colors Available:
White with cream or biscuit markings
All colors
Coat:
Heavy, thick, double
Generally short and smooth
Shedding:
Moderate
Moderate, Seasonal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Courageous, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Stubborn
Affectionate, Aggressive, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Territorial
Grooming:
High Maintenance
Moderate Maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

History

american eskimo dogThe American Eskimo is derived from the Nordic Spitz breed and most closely related to the German Spitz in particular. There were many German Spitzes in the United States at the time of the second World War and anti-German sentiment caused its name to change to the American Eskimo Dog. However, as the breed developed over time in the States, the American Eskimo became its own separate breed. In addition to the German Spitz, the American Eskimo is also related to the white Keeshond, the Samoyed, the white Italian Spitz and the white Pomeranian. The history is beginning to show that the Spitzes that were brought to the US in the early 1900’s was white. This color was not popular in Europe but was quickly the favorite in the United States. They were originally working dogs on farms and ranches. They have excellent herding instincts, make goo watch and guard dogs, and good law enforcement sniff dogs. However, their first introduction to the American public was through the Cooper Brothers’ Railroad Circus and Stout’s Pal Pierre at the Barnum and Baily Circus. Eskimo puppies were sold after the circus show.

It was then that the breed became one of America’s favorite breeds and they quickly became house pets. Following World War II, Japan exported the Japanese Spitz into America and it was crossed with the Eskimo also. The American Eskimo Dog breed was not recognized by AKC until 1985. Still in 1958 there was no official breed club in the States but there were growing numbers of the dogs. It was not until 1970 did the National American Eskimo Dog Association (NAEDA) come into being. They collected the pedigrees of the first 1750 dogs to be AKC registered.

Since the American Eskimo Dog is not recognized internationally, those wishing to participate in international competition such as England’s prestigious Cruft’s Dog Show must register their dogs a German Spitz. Despite this the American Eskimo and German Spitz remain two very different breeds.

The Molossus has always been a popular dog and they have been around since ancient times. Mastiff type dogs are termed as Molossus.

Of course, when looking at the origin of the dog, there are many unsubstantiated claims about it. It has always been believed that the Molossus was a Mastiff-type dog, ferocious in battle. The Romans were dog breeders and recognized that the Molossus was a talented dog – good at guarding and herding.

Over the centuries the dog has changed but it is believed it was a Mastiff-type dog with a number of other breeds included in its origins such as the Rottweiler, Pug, Bulldog, Great Dane, Alano Espanol and Saint Bernard.

The Molossus isn’t a dog breed itself but rather a category that other dogs belong to. Today there are Molosser clubs and Molosser shows around the world.

Description

american eskimo dog puppy - descriptionThis small to medium dog is beautiful and resembles a miniature Samoyed. There are three sizes of American Eskimothe standard, miniature, and the toy. The Eskimo’s head is wedge shaped with tall, triangular, erect ears. It has a heavily plumed tail with a sharp curl over the back. The Eskimo can burst into bold action due to their good legs and feet.

The coat is a double one with a harsh outer coat and plush inner one. The coat is always white or white with cream or biscuit markings, and visible skin in gray or pink. The American Eskimo’s ruff or mane is very heavy, and the nose, eyelids, pads and gums are black. They have dark eyes and blue are not allowed.

This Ancient dog breed from Greece has different descriptions of what it really looked like. It seems to have always been large to medium sized dog standing in the region of 50 to 76cm in height and weighing anything from 25 to 55kg.

The coat is mostly short and smooth and can be in a host of different colors. They are large boned dogs, solidly built with medium sized floppy ears, a short, thick neck, short, broad muzzle and a long tail which was later docked.

Molossers typically have heavy bones, pendant ears, and a relatively short and well-muscled neck, with a short, broad muzzle. These Molossers have always been used for a variety of jobs where strength, perseverance, speed and braveness are required. They have been used as rescue- and guard dogs, protecting livestock from predators.

Temperament:

The Molossus dogs all have the same kind of characteristics which have been bred into them. From their working days, they are known for their tremendous courage, taking on wild animals to protect their livestock.

They are territorial, wanting to protect their human family and home from intruders.They have also been bred to be loyal, loving family pets, and being highly affectionate, they want to be involved in the activities of the family.

This breed is gentle and loving, social and active and gets on well with other pets in the home as well as with children. They’re intelligent dogs and will need to be trained and socialized to ensure they are obedient and amicable with visitors to the home.

Characteristics

american eskimo dog dog - characteristicsThe Eskimo is affectionate, playful and love children of all ages. They are intelligent and want to please you. They can be trained easily and are champions of the obedience trial. They are fun and confident. At the same time, they need a confident pack leader. He is prone to Little Dog Syndrome where the dog thinks they oversee the home and display all sorts of behaviors. Under these circumstances the American Eskimo can become obsessive, aggressive, and engaging in obsessive resource guarding and barking.

The Molossus, contrary to what many people think, isn’t a vicious dog, but rather a good natured dog that makes a wonderful family pet.

These dogs are known also for being hard working dogs with characteristics of bravery. They are dogs who may look fairly tough, but they are actually gentle, calm and sensitive. It’s a bad upbringing from the owners that gives any dog bad characteristics.

Train your Molossus, have him socialized and be a responsible and loving dog owner, and these dogs promise to make you a splendid family pet.

Health Problems

american eskimo dog puppies - health problemsThe American Eskimo Dog is prone to hip dysplasia. Their eyes and tear ducts are potential issues with progressive retinal atrophy. They are allergic to fleas and have a tendency to be overweight.

We deal with PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy) in greater detain in a following section but it is not as destructive as it used to be. It is much more treatable now.

There are potentially some dental issues that some American Eskimo Dogs are prone to.

These large dogs are particularly prone to health issues such as hip dysplasia, a genetic condition. A poor diet as well as environmental factors can contribute towards the disease too as well as rapid weight gain and obesity.

This disease develops because the dog’s hip joints haven’t developed properly. The hips then partially dislocate, and the dog has pain and battles to get around. If your dog shows signs of hip dysplasia, he will need to get to the vet to do a physical exam and come up with a treatment- and management program.

Caring The Pet

Feeding

american eskimo dog dogs - caringYour American Eskimo Dog needs a high quality food so they will not get overweight. Make sure you know how much is appropriate for your particular dog and her specific age. The puppies should be fed twice a day but adults only once.

Health issues

As previously mentioned the American Eskimo Dog is prone to eye issue such as Progressive Retinal Atrophy or (PRA) – this disease is inherited and used to cause blindness as the rods in the retina died. New medical discoveries mean this is no longer a hopeless disease. Their eyes are also susceptible to other issues so make sure you check them and the tear ducts regularly.

Like so many other breeds the American Eskimo is also susceptible to hip dysplasia and a moving patella in the knee. For this reason watch their weight. They can also be very allergic.

Exercise and games

This small dog has more energy than his size can handle. He needs a lot of exercise and a place to run. If he will become hyperactive and destructive. They are prone to disturbing behaviors such as spinning (spinning in circles) when they don’t get enough exercise. The American Eskimo Dog is smart and agile, Play games like catch or agility. They are also great at herding, competitive obedience or detection.

Exercise:

These dogs were bred to be working dogs and they have always spent their time outdoors performing a guarding or rescue role. Today they require a lot of exercise – walks and ball games – as they are dogs with a lot of energy.

Diet:

Essentially a large breed, the Molossus will need a commercially manufactured food of high quality if you opt to make use of the convenience of these foods.

Make sure to choose one manufactured for large breeds and which is free of a host of bad ingredients such as corn, soy, wheat, dairy, artificial colors, sweeteners and preservatives.

You want dog food which is high in protein and fat. Try and include some home-cooked food such as boiled chicken, brown rice, pasta and vegetables. An ingredient to look out for in your dog’s food is omega-3 fatty acid to help keep the skin and coat shiny and healthy. Puppies particularly benefit from DHA, or Docosahexaenoic acid, a form of omega-3 fatty acid that is good for brain development.

Grooming:

Brushing the dog’s coat twice a week will be necessary to remove loose hairs, especially during the shedding period. When you brush him, check for ticks and fleas and speak to your vet about flea treatment if necessary. Ears and eyes should be checked and cleaned regularly.

Comparison with other breeds

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