Bandog - TOP 10 Interesting Facts

1) History
The Bandog has relatively long history and it is speculated that they were developed around 14th century in Middle England, where they were mostly used as property guards and protectors. The breeders tried to develop a dog with the strength of a Mastiff and agility of Terrier. The old Bandogs were not only used as guards, but also as patrol dogs, despatch dogs, hunting dogs and they were also used to locate poachers. The exact date of origin or exact ancestry of the original old Bandogs is uncertain, as there are not many historical records about them.
2) Name
The original way how these dogs were called is band dog, which means chained dog. It is because commonly, these dogs would be chained during the day, and than released at night to guard the property. After some time, band dog was merged into the breeds name we know today, the Bandog.
3) Modern Bandog
The old Bandog is extinct, but we have a similarly looking breed today. It was developed by an american veterinarian John Swinford in 1960s, who wanted to create the ultimate protection dog. Commonly it is believed, that the first Swinford Bandogs were mixes of Pitbull Terriers and English Mastiffs. Early death of mr. John Swinford made it impossible to standardize the breed, but it inspired many other breeders to continue breeding his kind of dogs and thanks to him, modern Bandog breeds are in existence. Today, you can find Bandog breeders in many countries around the world, the largest communities are in the USA, but also in Australia, Czechia and Slovakia, Germany or Brazil.
4) Protectors
The Bandog was specifically bred to be excellent guarding dog, which is why, they should be alert, courageous, confident, fearless and kind of ferocious. They should not be agressive without a reason, but when they or their family is threatened, they should be vigorous and defend them. They are not big barkers, they rather monitor their surroundings quietly and strike when its needed. Because of this naturally protective instinct, combined with strong body, Bandogs definitely need early proper socialization to become good pets, and indeed, they are capable of being excellent companions.
5) Companion dog
When the Bandog is around its family, around its pack, than it is typically relaxed, gentle and friendly dog. They are known for great loyalty and devotion to its owners and even though they have pretty intimidating appearance, they are true gentle giants. Bandogs are known to be great with kids, but of course, you should never leave any dog breed with a very young child unsupervised. Overall, this dog can create amazing loving companion, but they are definitely not dogs for novices or first time dog owners.
6) Legend
There is an old legend about Bandogs, which say, that it is a ghost like large mastiff dog with big muzzle and powerful jaws that spits out fire. This legend say, that this Bandog is guarding treasures buried under the Rock of Dunamase in King Leinsters stronghold in Ireland.
7) Size
The Bandog is a very strong and muscular, yet pretty athletic and agile dog breed with average weight between 45-70 kg, which is 100-150 lbs and height is typically between 60-65 cm, which is 23-26 inch. Females are naturally slightly smaller than males.
8) Coat and color
The Bandogs coat is short, thick and rough to touch and they can be found in several colors and color combinations. Most common colors are brindle, sandy gray, yellowish, fawn, golden fawn, black and red.
9) Maintenance
Speaking of the coat, it is important to mention the maintenance and grooming as well and luckily, it is very easy. They do shed and regular brushing is definitely beneficial to remove dead hair and dirt from the coat, but even without any grooming at all, they will keep their coats in excellent condition. Just like with any other breed in the world, you should regularly check the ears, eyes, nails and teeth and clean them or clip them if needed.
10) Health
The Bandog is relatively healthy dog breed with average lifespan around 12 years, which is actually quite good for dog of this size. Of course, they may suffer from some health issues, the major concerns are definitely joint problems, hip and elbow dysplasia and also bloating and different allergies.