About Neopolitan Mastiffs

The Neopolitan Mastiff is an extremely affectionate and loyal breed and one which craves human companionship. They can become dominant with other dogs so early socialisation is important. The Neapolitan Mastiff was originally bred for use in war back in the times of the Roman Empire. Neopolitan Mastiffs are generally very good with children and other household pets provided they have been socialised with them early on in life. To date, the breed has earned an esteemed reputation as a fearsome and dependable guard dog.

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Historic Neopolitan Mastiffs

Neapolitan Mastiffs

Neapolitan Mastiffs are massive, yet gentle animals, especially with children. They can be trained to have a mild temperament if obedience training and socialization begin at a young age. They appear to be quite fierce, though they are quite peaceful, if highly protective. Males are typically much more aggressive than females, and females do much better as house pets, because they are more submissive.

Neapolitans will grow to a height of 26 to 30 inches, and females will be slightly shorter, on average. They normally will weigh up to 165 pounds, though the largest males grow as heavy as 200+ pounds. They are extremely muscular with a thick body and large head. Its face is wrinkled, and the wrinkles continue onto its chin. Its skin is loose all over the body. Acceptable coat colors are solid gray, black, mahogany, or tawny, occasionally with small white patches on its chest. Their hair is short all over, and easy to groom. They do not shed excessively, but loose, dead hairs should removed with regular brushing.

Though they do make good pets, this breed is not recommended for inexperienced dog owners. They can do well in apartments, if given plenty of opportunities to exercise and run around. They do not require great amounts of exercise, and only require a small yard. If kept in a doghouse, one with extra bedding will keep them comfortable, even in the wintertime. As they age, Neapolitans will need more exercise. Long walks once or twice a day will do fine. They do have short life spans, most only living to be 10 years old.