Read About Neapolitan Mastiff

Serious and powerful looking, some describe the Neapolitan Mastiff as vicious looking. Quite the contrary, this is a peaceful and affectionate, yet protective, animal. Here's everything you need to know about this dog breed.

Quick Neapolitan Mastiff Summary:

1. Size:

   Giant

2. Weight:

   100+ lbs

3. Coat:

   Short Coated

4. Shedding:

   Medium Shedding

5. Temperament:

   Moderately Affectionate

6. Obedience:

   Excellent Obedience

7. Ease of Training:

   Easy to Train

8. Way with Children:

   Very Good with Children

Neapolitan Mastiff - Facts

1. AKC Group/Date Admitted:

   Working; 1949

2. Size & Weight:

   24 -- 30 inches tall and up to 165 lbs; the largest males can reach almost 200 lbs.

3. Coat:

   Short and sleek, their coat is very low maintenance.

4. Head & Muzzle:

   A large face heavy with wrinkles and folds; the muzzle is deep and square.

5. Body:

   Broad and muscled with a deep chest, the Neapolitan Mastiff commands attention.

6. Colors:

   Black, blue, mahogany and tawny with brindle markings.

7. Life Expectancy:

   Up to 10 years

8. Popularity:

   The Neapolitan Mastiff is very popular in Italy.

9. Habitat:

   These dogs will do okay with sufficient exercise; a small yard will be just fine. Sensitive to warm weather they need extra water on warmer days.

Neapolitan Mastiff - Origins

1. Country of Origin:

   Italy

2. Historical Information:

   An estate guard dog in Italy, this breed has roots that trace all the way back to the dogs used by the Roman Army during times of war.

Neapolitan Mastiff - Defining Characteristics

1. Temperament:

   Steady and loyal, this breed is not aggressive without being given reason.

2. Behavior:

   Willful and fearless; they are very in tune with their masters wishes. They are not excessive barkers.

3. Habits:

   This breed tends to drool very heavily.

Neapolitan Mastiff - Concerns

1. Health Issues:

   Hip dysplasia, pano-ostiosis, and "cherry eye care" are all things to watch for with this breed.

2. Exercise Needs:

   As puppies, the exercise routine should be very limited as these puppies should never be over-tired; it is prohibitive to their growth. As adults, they need extreme amounts of exercise and should be taken on long walks twice daily.

3. Grooming Needs:

   Brush your Mastiff with a rubber brush once per week to remove any dead hair.

4. Travel Needs:

   With a breed this large, you must secure them in a pet seat if you must take them in the car. Be sure to have sufficient food and water available to them.

5. Getting Along With Other Pets and Children:

   As long as they are properly socialized, this breed will get along just fine with other pets; it loves children.

Neapolitan Mastiff - How to Choose

1. What to Look for in a Healthy Puppy:

   Healthy and bright eyes, energetic and a good, clean coat.

2. What you will Need for a New Puppy:

   Training collar and leash, housebreaking materials, food and water dishes, dog bed.

3. Puppy-Proofing your House:

   As always, it is a good idea to go through your home and pick up any loose objects that could be eaten by your puppy. "Out of Sight, Out of Mind" is a good rule of thumb to follow when bringing home your new companion.