Molossos Tis Epirou

		Molossos Tis Epirou
		He is not recognized by the F.C.I.


Origin			Greece
Translation			Francis Vandersteen

A brief presentation of the Molossos Tis Epirou

A little-known breed despite its impressive stature and remarkable history, the Molossos Tis Epirou is recognized in its home country by the Greek Kennel Club. Even in Greece, there aren't many breed members left, and the Molossus of Epirus Rescue organization is a local group trying to remedy the situation. A large breed with a colossal head, the Molossos Tis Epirou is an imposing specimen perfectly suited to its role as a guard dog. Kind and gentle with loved ones, this breed can be hostile and distrustful of strangers, so it requires thorough socialization early in life.

History of the Molossos Tis Epirou

The Molossos Tis Epirou is thought to have existed as far back as 400 BC, and was a well-known dog breed in ancient Greece and Rome. They were primarily used as livestock guardians, essential farm workers who protected flocks of sheep and cattle from deadly predators such as wolves and bears. Although it's difficult to prove their exact place of origin, they certainly have a strong link with the region of Epirus. Epirus is a historic region that today is divided between Greece and Albania. The region is mountainous and rocky, and would have been a difficult place for a working dog. In addition to their tasks on rural farms, the breed's size and strength were exploited in wartime, when they were used in combat. In fact, it's even claimed that Alexander the Great took these brave dogs to fight with him. The Molossos Tis Epirou originated in Greece and is probably the ancestor of some of the best-known breeds, such as the Neapolitan Mastiff. However, some experts are divided on this point and wonder whether this link may have been fabricated or exaggerated over the years. Several reports suggest that the original Molossos looked more like a herding dog than a guard dog, and that their appearance has changed considerably over the years.

Appearance of the Molossos Tis Epirou

A big-boned dog with a giant head and powerful jaw, the Molossos Tis Epirou is an intimidating specimen. Their dark brown eyes are relatively small and sit quite far back. Likewise, their ears are not particularly large and hang close to their head. Their necks are substantial, thick and muscular with loose folds. They have deep chests and sloping shoulders with a rectangular body shape. Their medium-sized tails are thick at the base and often denser than their bodies. Their short coats are fairly smooth, and most are a mixture of brown and black. Some will have white patches, and a brindle coat is also a possibility. It's not uncommon for the face mask and eyebrows to be a different color from the rest of the coat. Perhaps best known for its epic proportions, the Molossos Tis Epirou can reach considerable size. A fully grown female will weigh between 40 and 60 kilos and measure between 64 and 74 centimeters. The male is slightly larger, weighing 45 to 65 kilos and reaching a height of 66 to 75 centimeters.

Temperament of the Molossos Tis Epirou

Molossos Tis Epirou have always been extremely loyal, whether accompanying their master into battle or protecting their home and possessions. They form close bonds with their family members and show them great respect. This loyalty to their owners is generally a positive trait, but can make them wary of newcomers and quite territorial. As guard and defense dogs, Molossos Tis Epirou excel, but can be unnecessarily hostile in certain situations, such as when a friend comes to visit. Early training and intensive socialization can prevent this from becoming a major problem in the long term. Bold and courageous, the Molossos Tis Epirou is not intimidating. Having fought off hungry wolves, this is not a dog that fears confrontation or new situations. They are confident and self-assured, which endows them with a certain quiet, calm disposition. Although this breed would probably surrender its life to the children in the house, they should always be closely supervised when in their company, because of their size and strength. With unfamiliar children, they should not be trusted.

Needs and activities of the Molossos Tis Epirou

The Molossos Tis Epirou is a dog that likes to be outside in the fresh air, but is not particularly fast or agile, but has good stamina. Most will be content with two 30-minute walks a day, and will generally choose to walk rather than run. Owners need to be careful not to over-exert these guys when they're immature, which could lead to orthopedic problems later in life. An intelligent dog with a keen mind, it's important to keep Molossos Tis Epirou mentally stimulated. In addition to daily exercise, they should receive frequent training and be allowed to participate in a variety of canine games and activities.

Maintenance of the Molossos Tis Epirou

The most important thing when it comes to grooming this breed is to set up a grooming program from an early age. As tricky as it may be to trim the nails and clean the ears of a Molossos Tis Epirou puppy, it's infinitely more difficult to try and introduce these tasks for the first time to a strong, wary adult. The short coat can be brushed once or twice a week, concentrating on the denser fur around the neck and tail. The ears should be cleaned about once every two weeks, depending on how dirty and waxy they are.

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Molossos Tis Epirou