American Great Dane: description of the breed

American mastiff, or just an ampull (American Bulldog in translation from English), is a very ancient and unique dog breed. How to keep them? What to feed? This is exactly what will be discussed in the article.

Description and history of the breed

This breed is often compared to the closest of its relatives - an English bulldog and in rare cases can be called an Old English bulldog. The uniqueness of the representatives of this breed lies in the fact that they absolutely did not change their external signs and preserved all the features of their English ancestor. These dogs originated from ancient Assyrian and Egyptian pickling dogs that first appeared in Greece and spread later in Europe. In medieval England, these dogs were very popular, as they were involved in bloody harvests with bulls. Later, with the appearance of the breed in the expanses of America, this Old English bulldog turns into a farm dog and perfectly copes with the protection of houses and herds, and sometimes even transports various loads and nurses with small children. In a word, very versatile dogs, if not to say - universal.

The American dog is far from being a dog, and its stern appearance speaks of it. They are also called the symbol of the US Marine Corps, and depending on the state, the full name of the breed was very different. The American bulldog began to be called only 15 years ago. However, many cynological organizations still do not recognize the American Great Dane breed, thereby influencing its popularity in the modern world.

American Great Dane: description of the breed

According to the general standard, this breed has a well-coordinated, powerful, athletic build, which justifies its purpose. This is primarily a guard dog. The American danes have a powerful, muscular body. Depending on the sex, the size of the dog may differ. Thus, males are more stocky than females.

The American dog, whose photo you see in the article, has a very massive head and a strong jaw. He is very mobile, despite his large size and can easily be carried off his feet. The average height of the male at the withers ranges from 57 to 68 cm, and the female - from 54 to 65 cm. As for weight, it also differs depending on sex: males weigh 45-55 kg, females - 35-50 kg. These dogs - owners of short wool (1.5 cm), which makes it as easy as possible to care for them. Their color may vary, but is always diluted with white spots.

Today there are two varieties of this breed:

• Classic - a dog with a short muzzle and a powerful body;
• Standard - a dog with an extended muzzle and a lighter physique.

Character

By nature, this dog is very stubborn and temperamental, it never gives up and, thanks to its extraordinary strength, is accustomed to always win. In the family they are very cheerful and sociable and can become a real support.

Many believe that in this breed of dogs are highly developed watchdog qualities, and this is evident not only from the physique, but also its vigilant and impressive look. And it's true, in the nature of any American bulldog there is a certain sense of arrogance towards other four-legged brothers. But in a relationship with the owner, he can be an excellent friend, companion and reliable guard, able to withstand heavy physical exertion. Among other things, this breed has a very developed flair, and therefore among them there are many fans of hunting foxes and wild boars.

It is also important to say that they lack the sense of pain as such, they are fearless and seem to lack the instinct of self-preservation. The American dog is a very clever dog, as he skillfully disguises his true attitude and gives it out as a cold-blooded one, thus leaving time to think over his tactical step. In a word, it's difficult to outwit or distract him.

American Dane: content

The American bulldog is absolutely not exacting to the conditions of its maintenance. The only condition: do not start it in the same room with another male of any breed. Ambuls do not tolerate competition and are extremely aggressive when "unexpected cohabitants" appear.

Care and Feeding

What does the American Great Dane like? What to feed this dog? Ambull does not need any special care, he is not at all fussy. This breed is contraindicated frequent washing, it is recommended to do this 2 times a year. You can just wipe your paws after walking, and such areas as the eyes, ears and nose. Despite the short coat, it is desirable to comb out the ambulances once a week. Many claws are clipped about once every 2-3 months.

Breeders of this dog do not need to forget about regular physical activity, without which this dog can not fully develop.

Proper development and health status is promoted by a balanced diet with dietary supplements, vitamins and traditional food with fresh products such as cereals, meat and dairy products.

Training

Like any other dog, the ambulance needs to be trained from the very childhood. According to the cynologists, the American dog needs to be trained like no other dog, given his wayward character. Therefore, without constant supervision and education can not do. Ambull always acts as a dominant, therefore it is necessary to let him know who is in charge of the house. It is forbidden to allow him to bite and pull the leash for a walk even at the age of the puppy, so that it does not become a habit. If necessary, you can be punished with a severe reprimand and a slight shake-up at the withers. It is necessary to suppress their manifestations of independence and obstinate character. Especially in relation to other dogs or cats, an American dog should understand that it is impossible to fight for no reason. Observing these simple rules, you can grow a beautiful bulldog.

Choosing a puppy

To choose a puppy should be taken seriously enough, and therefore it is only worth purchasing it in a real nursery. In this case, there is no risk of getting a cross between this breed, because its thoroughbredness is one of the main aspects when acquiring, and the slightest cross between the two can have different effects on both appearance and character of the animal.

In the nursery must provide a document certifying the health of the puppy, with the prescribed veterinary examinations. It is better not to take all tiny ones, their age should not be less than 1,5-3 months. It is also important to know about the number of puppies in the litter, it should be equal to a maximum of 8 puppies. When choosing, be guided by external signs: silky hair, clean eyes, general reaction and behavior. The healthiest puppy is usually the most active and cheerful fat boy. But often people choose those with whom "invisible contact" develops, and this friendship can not be spilled with water for many years.