Moscow Mastiff

Yet another breed developed in the post WW2 Soviet Union, the Moscow Mastiff shouldn't be confused with the Old Russian Dogge, a breed belonging to the Mordash group of baiting dogs, which reportedly inspired its creation. It was established by crossing the Deutsche Dogge with the Byelorussian Ovtcharka, although other breeds have been suggested as well, such as the German Shepherd Dog and the Central Asian Volkodav. Conformation was set rather quickly and the Standard was written in 1964. Although seemingly superiour to its parent breeds, the Moscow Mastiff failed to catch on with the Red Army and the programme was eventually abandoned. Many dogs were placed in civilian homes, while a number of them remained at the breeding kennels, where they were used in other experiments, such as the development of the Black Russian Terrier. The Moscow Mastiff is considered to be extinct today, with only a handful of remaining specimens believed to exist in Russia.

Tall, powerful and massive, the dry-mouthed Moscow Mastiff is slightly heavier than the Great Dane, but appears very elegant and graceful. Strong-legged, with a muscular neck and straight back, it is an impressive and attractive Moloss. Primarily a property guardian, this is also a very trainable and obedient service dog, as well as a well-mannered family companion.

The coat is densely undercoated and slightly longer than that of the German Dogge, coming in red, fawn, yellow, black and brindle colourings. Average height is around 30 inches.