Should The American Bandog Mastiff Be Your Special New Family Member?

By Regine Hehn

While you can consider the American Bandog Mastiff to be a sweet, loving dog you should also consider them quite large. These are great dogs by breed but are not necessarily a good choice for inexperienced dog owners or owners of previous small dogs. Their growth has been reported ranging from 85 pounds for a lighter female all the way up to about 150 pounds found in larger males.

There are roots, history, and a present reputation in the dog fighting world for these sweet dogs. Confined mostly to the Eastern Seaboard, their popularity as a fighting dog is not high and thus the breeding standards remain positive when it comes to creating the docile, adoring dog that they really are. Go through a reputable breeder or rescue group. These dogs are loyal and loving, and fighting them is simply cruel. They simply want to be with you and accept your loving affection.

You need to know how to provide the best of consistent leadership throughout the dog's life. If you are not very dominant or you tend to struggle with being consistent with dogs, it is quite possible that the American Bandog Mastiff is not your best choice. Leadership provides safety, security, and a sense of purpose. He doesn't want to be the leader of the pack. However, if you're not able or willing to be the leader he will step up and take the position, which can cause trouble.

They also require stimulation. All dogs need stimulation, but some need more than others. This is a dog that you can challenge and receive a wonderfully happy response. He wants to engage and he wants to do so with your approval. The more you offer him good exercise and stimulation the more satisfied he will be when alone.

Without social interaction with other dogs you can expect to end up with a dog aggressive animal. This can lead to terrible consequences and thus you will need to ensure that you give him regular social interaction as well as substantial guidance. The emotional and physical exercise that he receives from socializing with other dogs will also help keep him a much happier creature.

It is important that you commit to the leadership skills, the socialization, and the stimulation when raising the American Bandog Mastiff. So far these guys have not been placed in the bully breed category and it can remain that way with proper ownership. Without the leadership, exercise, and social aspects of his life any dog can develop some issues. These dogs can develop aggression issues when not properly cared for. This is a highly suitable dog for those who have raised a happy and well socialized Pit Bull, German Shepherd, Mastiff, or Rottweiler and such breeds.

There is a bit of dribbling that happens with these guys. To make up for it though, they are fantastic with kids and other pets when well socialized. They have an innate sense of gentle behavior when it is called for.

If you're looking for a companion that can guard the family the America Bandog Mastiff is definitely a positive choice. He will protect you all with everything he has. While basic breed standards fit this profile, individual dogs should be taken on an individual basis. - 29953

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