The term "Bandog" can have various meanings, but it does not refer to a recognised breed. Here, we explain what a Bandog is, which dogs are associated with this name, and why keeping them can be problematic.
Bandogs are large, impressive dogs intended to instil fear. They are not a specific breed but a type of dog with a very problematic background.
These dogs often live chained up. Thus, the term “Bandog” has become synonymous with “chain dog”. In English, the term “Chain dog” is also used. Typically, they are guard dogs, and as such, they are often chained up or kept in a kennel during the day and used to patrol a factory or property at night.
Bandogs are not regular guard dogs. They are very large and imposing animals, usually specially trained to be fearless and to deliberately intimidate people. Unfortunately, these dogs often live their lives tethered.
If you see a “Bandog” and want to help, the best step is to first talk to the owners. Together, you might find a way to improve the situation. If the owner is uncooperative, you should look into the specific regulations in your country. If possible, contact the animal welfare authority or an animal protection organisation and report the problematic conditions the Bandog is living in.
Why Tethering Dogs Should Be Rejected
The term “chain dog” itself highlights why this way of keeping dogs is far from species-appropriate. Bandogs often spend most of their lives alone, tethered. This is against the natural behaviour and needs of dogs.
Dogs are very social animals. They need interaction with other dogs, their human family, and their environment. Purely tethering a dog is not species-appropriate and should be rejected for this reason alone. This applies to Bandogs and all other dogs.
A Bandog isn’t a specific breed but refers to particularly large and intimidating-looking dogs. For instance, it could be a Dogue de Bordeaux like the one shown in the picture
Which Breeds are Known as Bandogs?
The term Bandog does not refer to a specific breed, even if some owners might see it that way. Various large dogs, like the Molosser breed or dogs such as the Bull Terrier, are often bred or used as Bandogs.
Some refer to purebred, mastiff-like dogs such as Bullmastiffs, Dogue de Bordeaux, Mastino Napoletano, German Boxers, or Rottweilers as Bandogs. Others refer to mixed breeds. Whether purebred or mixed breed: These massive dogs share a history as medieval boar catchers or bear dogs, as assistants in wild boar hunting, and as guard dogs.
Mastiff-like dogs are brave and strong. In the wrong hands, they can quickly be misused as dangerous weapons. The term Bandog refers to the imposing nature of these dogs, which often serve as status symbols for their owners to portray a dangerous image.
What is the “Swinford Bandog”?
In the 1960s, veterinarian John Swinford dedicated himself to breeding Bandogs. These dogs were meant to be perfect guard dogs, focused more on character than appearance.
Swinford believed that modern dog breeding placed too much emphasis on appearance and not enough on temperaments and health. By selectively breeding, mostly English Mastiffs or American Pit Bull Terriers and their mixes, he aimed to create the “Swinford Bandog”.
Swinford’s efforts led to some media coverage, but after his death in 1971, only a few breeders continued his work. Today, there are few followers of this dog type in the USA.
Bandog for Sale: Please Don’t!
Please never buy a puppy advertised as a “Bandog”. You will likely get a young dog without proper documentation, possibly from a dubious source.
If you’re interested in large dogs, you can find them with reputable breeders of Molosser breeds. These breeders care about the well-being of their dogs, ensuring they are healthy and well-socialised. They carefully choose homes for their puppies.
If you are looking for a puppy, consider these breeders. Avoid extreme breeds like very large dogs or those with many wrinkles or short snouts.
You can also find large dogs in animal shelters longing for a loving home. If you choose an adult Bandog from animal protection, thoroughly research its background. Dogs kept as intimidating status symbols or chain dogs often lack proper training.
Such dogs need experienced owners. With a strong bond and plenty of positive reinforcement combined with consistent training, a Bandog can respect you and become a loyal, reliable companion.
However, small children and other pets should not live in the same household if you adopt a Mastiff or Terrier-type dog with an unknown history. Seek thorough advice from the adoption agencies!
zooplus Editorial Team
The zooplus editorial team consists of a dedicated team of experts with many years of experience in the field of animal husbandry: Luisa with her White Swiss Shepherd Elyos, Laura, Julio, and Florian. Together with a large network of animal experts, we work to make the zooplus magazine a trusted source of information for all animal owners and lovers. Our goal is to provide exciting animal knowledge and relevant information on the proper care of pets.
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