Neapolitan Mastiff | Dog Breed

Last updated May 29, 2024

Size

Varies

Popularity

One of the Most Popular

Typical Lifespan

About 7 years

Exercise

Neapolitan Mastiffs enjoy daily moderate walks and regular play sessions to stay healthy and happy.

Grooming Needs

Neapolitan Mastiffs require regular brushing to manage shedding and occasional baths to maintain skin health, paying special attention to cleaning their facial wrinkles to prevent infections.

Country of Origin

Italy

Adaptability

The Neapolitan Mastiff can adapt to various living environments but thrives best in a home with ample space due to its large size. It can manage in smaller spaces if given sufficient exercise and mental stimulation.

Shedding Level

Neapolitan Mastiffs shed a moderate amount year-round, with slightly increased shedding during seasonal changes.

Energiness

Neapolitan Mastiffs have a relatively low energy level and are generally calm, requiring moderate exercise to stay healthy.

Vocality

Neapolitan Mastiffs are generally quiet dogs, barking primarily to alert their owners of strangers or unusual activities.

Trainability

Neapolitan Mastiffs can be challenging to train due to their independent and stubborn nature, but they respond best to consistent, positive reinforcement methods.

Dietary Needs

Neapolitan Mastiffs need a balanced diet rich in high-quality protein and healthy fats to support their large size and muscular build. Additionally, they benefit from joint-supporting nutrients like glucosamine and chondroitin.

Weight Range

50-70 kg

Child Friendliness

Varies

Social Needs

For Whom?

The Neapolitan Mastiff, that gentle giant, needs a home where it can feel safe and loved. This breed is best suited to a spacious environment where it can move freely without feeling cramped. An ideal home would have a large, fenced yard where it can explore its surroundings and spend time outdoors with its family.

The Neapolitan Mastiff requires strong leadership and a calm approach from its owner. It is best suited for a person or family who understands the needs of large dog breeds and is committed to their training and well-being over the long term. Since the Neapolitan Mastiff is loyal and protective of its family, it is an excellent choice for a home where the dog's watchdog qualities are valued, but where it can also be provided with a loving and understanding home.

This breed is not suitable as a first dog or for a very busy home where there is no time or resources to meet the dog’s needs. A Neapolitan Mastiff owner should be prepared to spend time with the dog, exercise it regularly, and ensure it receives the mental stimulation and physical activity it needs. A home with the understanding and patience to raise and guide this strong but sensitive breed is ideal. In such an environment, the Neapolitan Mastiff can truly thrive and become a valuable family member.

Character

Loyal

Protective

Gentle

Dignified

The Neapolitan Mastiff is an impressive sight that commands respect just by its presence. Despite its robust and powerful build, this dog breed has a heart as big as its physique. The Neapolitan Mastiff is loyal and protective of its family, known especially for its deep attachment to its owner and loved ones.

This gentle giant shows tact and reserve, particularly when encountering new people and situations. However, the Neapolitan Mastiff is not aggressive; it prefers to take on the role of an observer, analyzing its surroundings and only acting if it perceives a real threat. Its natural watchdog ability means it is always ready to defend its home and family.

Although the Neapolitan Mastiff may appear fearless on the outside, it is sensitive at heart and deeply attuned to its owners' emotions. It acts like the family's quiet protector, understanding when to act and when its mere presence is enough. The Neapolitan Mastiff's stable and calm demeanor makes it an excellent companion for those who value a deep bond with their dog.

Training a Neapolitan Mastiff requires patience and consistency, but its loyalty and desire to please make training rewarding. Building a trusting relationship is crucial, and understanding that respect is a two-way street is important. Once trust is established, the Neapolitan Mastiff is like an unwavering shield that stands by your side against the winds of the world.

While the Neapolitan Mastiff is watchful and alert, it also knows how to relax and enjoy the company of its family. It is like a solid rock that provides a calming strength and security. The Neapolitan Mastiff may not be overflowing with energy, but its presence fills the home with warmth and peace that stem from its deep loyalty and love.

This noble and majestic dog is more than a pet – it is a family member that carries with it a sense of history and the soul of a protector. The Neapolitan Mastiff's profound loyalty and gentleness make it an invaluable friend to the family, ready to share life's journey with all its twists and turns.

History

The Neapolitan Mastiff has roots stretching back to the Roman Empire, where its ancestors were known as formidable war dogs. These massive and fearless dogs joined the ranks of legions, intimidating enemies and protecting their warriors. Later, they served as companions to gladiators in bloody arena fights, showcasing their bravery and strength.

As time moved into Medieval Italy, these robust dogs primarily took on roles as estate guardians and personal protectors. The Neapolitan Mastiff's presence was so imposing that it could deter criminals and unwanted strangers merely with its appearance. This made the breed highly valued and sought after, especially among the nobility, where its loyalty and protective nature were greatly appreciated.

In the 19th century, breeding of mastiffs in the Naples area took a new direction as local breeders began to focus specifically on the breed now known as the Neapolitan Mastiff. They aimed to preserve the breed's traditional features, such as its strong build and fearless nature, while gradually breeding in its distinctive wrinkled face and massive body structure.

After World War II, the breed was at risk of extinction, but thanks to the efforts of enthusiasts and breeders, the Neapolitan Mastiff was saved. Their dedication ensured that this ancient breed not only survived but continued to evolve. By the late 20th century, the Neapolitan Mastiff began to gain international recognition and spread worldwide.

Today, the Neapolitan Mastiff is known as a loyal and calm family dog, still ready to defend its home and family. Its history as a war dog and protector still strongly influences the breed's character, and it remains a devoted and loving companion to those who understand and respect its unique heritage and needs. The story of the Neapolitan Mastiff has endured through the centuries, continuing its impressive legacy in the dog world today.