NEAPOLITAN MASTIFF

Description:

The Neapolitan Mastiff is extremely loyal and balanced breed. He is often used as a guard and defender of the family and property, due to his protective instincts and his fearsome appearance. Additionally, this dog is very suspicious of strangers, so this quality is further enhanced. The Neapolitan Mastiff was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 2004.

Weight: 110-150 pounds Height: 24-30 inches  Lifespan: 8-10 years

Characteristics:

Neapolitans, as a breed, are extremely intelligent dogs with a tendency to be independent thinkers. They prefer to be with their family. The Neapolitan Mastiff barks only if he notices an intruder, thus alerting the owners of its presence.

Character

Regardless of his colossal body, The Neapolitan Mastiff is affectionate and surprisingly sensitive. He gets along well with older children, and with properly conducted socialization and training, peacefully coexists with other animals in the house.

Coat / Care

The Neapolitan Mastiff is covered in skin folds which are forming wrinkles. He has short and dense hair of the same length all over the body, perfectly straight without any signs of a wave. Grooming is quite simple. Regular brushing in order to remove dead hairs is enough. They shed moderately.

Health Problems:

The Neapolitan Mastiff is generally healthy dog breed, but like all breeds, they can be prone to Hip Dysplasia, Elbow Dysplasia, Cardiomyopathy, Cleft Palate, Cherry Eye, Demodicosis, and Fold Dermatitis. The Neapolitan Mastiff has a life expectancy of 8 to 10 years.

Weight / Height

The male Neapolitan Mastiff dog breed’s height is around 26 – 31 inches and weighs around 140 and 150 pounds. Female Neapolitan Mastiff dogs can reach a size from 24 – 29 inches and weighs between 110 and 130 pounds. Male dogs are generally larger than females.

Training

Since this is a dominant breed, training and socialization must begin at early age. The coach must stay calm and balanced while showing persistence and consistency. Since Neapolitan Mastiff has a tendency to show aggression towards strangers, quite a steady hand is required.

Activity

In order to stay healthy and active, Neapolitan Mastiff requires regular exercise. Neapolitans should be exercised lightly with long walks and moderate safe-training. The ideal environment for this breed is its home with a large, fenced yard.