About Neopolitan Mastiffs
The Neapolitan Mastiff, also called the Italian Mastiff
or, in Italian, the Mastino Napoletano, is a giant breed
of dog. Its origins are in antiquity, likely having
originated as a common stock of a molosser breed, but
the specifics of its development are unknown.
In size, the Neapolitan Mastiff is typical of mastiff
breeds; male Neopolitan Mastiffs typically measure between
26 and 31 inches in height at the shoulders and weigh
between 130 and 155 pounds, while females measure 24
to 29 inches in height at the shoulders and weigh 110
to 130 pounds. The Neopolitan Mastiff has a broad chest,
large skull, small ears, and distinctly hanging jowls.
In addition to its memorable jowls, the Neapolitan
Mastiff is known for its generally loose, abundant skin,
which tends to hang off the dog's body in several places.
The skin above the Neapolitan Mastiff's eyes droops,
creating a characteristic expression.
The Neapolitan Mastiff has short fur that is dense
and straight in texture. It is typically gray, black,
blue, tawny, or mahogany in color, and may sometimes
be brindle. The Neopolitan Mastiff may also be chocolate
in color, though this occurs only rarely. The AKC standards
for the breed permit limited white markings on its chest
and toes, but not on its face.
A true gentle giant, the Neapolitan Mastiff is friendly,
affectionate, loving, and relaxed. It appreciates company
and is gentle and friendly with children, though its
size may intimidate a small child. The Neapolitan Mastiff
is not an inherently aggressive breed, though its great
loyalty to those it considers family makes it a sort
of guardian, eager to watch over and protect its humans.
It may be aloof towards strangers or aggressive towards
other dog breeds, so socialization is important.
The Neapolitan Mastiff is not a particularly active
dog, and therefore doesn't have a very high exercise
requirement. However, it is important that a Neapolitan
Mastiff is taken for a long walk twice daily to satisfy
the exercise requirement it does have, as well as the
inherent desire of dogs to walk. Because of this breed's
low exercise requirement, it can fare well living in
an apartment with access to only a small lawn. A Neapolitan
Mastiff should also have a cool place to live in warm
weather and climates.
A potential annoyance for Neapolitan Mastiff owners
is the tendency of the breed to drool. Additionally,
those with pet allergies should note that the Neapolitan
Mastiff is an average shedder. Grooming, however, is
very simple, requiring only occasional brushing of the
coat.
Like many especially large breeds, the Neapolitan Mastiff
is susceptible to several health conditions, including
cherry eye, bloating, and hip dysplasia. Young Neapolitan
Mastiffs may experience joint pain, but this typically
goes away after the puppy has reached the age of 18
months. The Neapolitan Mastiff's life span is eight
to ten years.
|
Dog Pound
