Neapolitan Mastiff
Adult Size: Females 24 - 28 inches and approximately 110 pounds, Males 26 - 30 inches and approximately 150 pounds
Breed: Neapolitan Mastiff
Breed Group: Working

The Neapolitan Mastiff is a calm, stable and efficient guard dog. Typically they’re quick learners and good with their families, although children need to learn to respect them. Overall, they can be difficult to train and aren’t recommended for first time dog owners.

Even though the Neapolitan Mastiff tends to be a quiet dog, they still enjoy time outdoors. Climbing and jumping should be limited though, as the dog’s weight combined with weak joints can easily result in injury. Occasionally, they may become playful, but the type and duration of play should be limited.

Neapolitan Mastiffs are faithful and loyal companions to family members, but won’t take to strangers easily. If you’re looking for a social or playful dog, this is not the dog for you. That said, if you want a dog that will be protective without all of the hazards associated with training and owning a security dog, the Neapolitan Mastiff is perfect. Because they are calm, intelligent and naturally protective, you won’t need to try and alter their basic temperament. In addition, where another type of dog might attack a stranger immediately, the Neapolitan Mastiff is more likely to accept your decisions.

As for grooming, it may take some work to keep a Neapolitan Mastiff well groomed and clean. The skin folds can require a great deal of attention. In particular, the folds around the face can develop excessive moisture from the dog's tendency to droll. Since these folds are also warm, they are the perfect place for infectious diseases to develop.

As with other large dogs, hip, elbow and shoulder dysplasia are common. Although many of these dogs also have thyroid problems, it is important to realize that animals with good blood lines will not have this problem. When selecting a puppy, it’s very important to know the health history of the parents and ensure that no damage has occurred to joints and bones from rough handling. Serious digestive problems can occur if you feed dry kibbles or allow too much physical activity after eating.

Although the modern Neapolitan Mastiff comes from a very small pool of dogs, they still trace their lineage back to the Greeks and Romans. Historically, these dogs have fought beside gladiators and other warriors. They also served as guardians of estates in and around Naples for hundreds of years.

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Neapolitan Mastiff - Dogs for Sale