Neapolitan Mastiff

also known as Italian Mastiff, Mastino Napoletano, Can39;E Presa, Italian Bulldog, Neo, Italian Molosso

Pros History


The Neapolitan Mastiff, also known as the Mastino Napoletano, is a large breed of dog that has a long and storied history dating back to ancient times. It is believed that the breed originated in Italy, specifically in the region of Campania, which includes the city of Naples. The Neapolitan Mastiff is known for its massive size, powerful build, and protective nature, and it has been used for a variety of purposes throughout its history, including as a guard dog, a fighting dog, and a police dog.

The origins of the Neapolitan Mastiff can be traced back to the ancient Roman Empire, where the breed was used as a guard dog and a fighting dog. During this time, the breed was known as the "Canis Pugnax," or "fighting dog," and it was prized for its bravery and ferocity. The Neapolitan Mastiff was also used by the Romans as a working dog, assisting with tasks such as herding livestock and pulling carts.

As the Roman Empire declined and eventually collapsed, the Neapolitan Mastiff continued to evolve and develop in the region of Campania. The breed became a popular choice for use as a guard dog, protecting homes, businesses, and other property from intruders. The Neapolitan Mastiff was also used as a fighting dog during this time, participating in organized dog fights that were popular in Italy.

During the Middle Ages, the Neapolitan Mastiff continued to be used as a guard dog and a fighting dog, but it also gained popularity as a hunting dog. The breed's massive size and powerful build made it well-suited for tracking and bringing down large game, and it was often used to hunt wild boar and other large animals.

In the modern era, the Neapolitan Mastiff has continued to be used as a guard dog, but it has also been trained and used for a variety of other purposes. The breed has been used as a police dog in Italy and other countries, and it has also been used as a search and rescue dog. In addition, the Neapolitan Mastiff has gained popularity as a companion animal and show dog, with the breed being recognized by the American Kennel Club in 2004.

Despite its intimidating appearance, the Neapolitan Mastiff is generally calm and gentle, and it is known for its patience with children. The breed is intelligent and trainable, but it can be stubborn at times and may require firm and consistent training. The Neapolitan Mastiff is generally good with other animals and is not prone to aggression, but it may be reserved or aloof with strangers.

Breed Information


Type

Is Neapolitan Mastiff a purebred?

Purebred

Purpose

What were Neapolitan Mastiffs originally used for?

guardian

Lifespan

How Long Do Neapolitan Mastiffs Live? What is average life expectancy for a Neapolitan Mastiff? How long can Neapolitan Mastiffs live?

8-10 years

The average Neapolitan Mastiff lifespan is somewhere between 8-10 years, provided they aren't beset by any exceptional health issues or injuries.

Neapolitan Mastiff Height & Weight


How big is a full grown Neapolitan Mastiff?

What is the average height of a Neapolitan Mastiff? How big is a Purebred Neapolitan Mastiff height? Neapolitan Mastiff dog height:
Height
Average 6 months 12 months 18 months
Male 26-31 inches (66 - 78.7 cm) 23.5 inches (59.7 cm) 25.5 inches (64.8 cm) 28.5 inches (72.4 cm)
Female 24-29 inches (61 - 73.7 cm) 21.5 inches (54.6 cm) 23.5 inches (59.7 cm) 26.5 inches (67.3 cm)
What is the average weight of a Neapolitan Mastiff? How much should Neapolitan Mastiffs weigh?
Weight
Average 6 months 12 months 18 months
Male 150-200 pounds (68 - 91 kg) 115.0 pounds (52 kg) 145.0 pounds (66 kg) 175.0 pounds (79 kg)
Female 120-175 pounds (54 - 79 kg) 105.0 pounds (48 kg) 115.0 pounds (52 kg) 147.5 pounds (67 kg)
Weight Gain Potential

Do Neapolitan Mastiffs get fat easily?

They are known for having a strong tendency to become overweight. It is important to find a balance between providing enough exercise and controlling their food intake. To maintain a healthy weight, it is recommended to increase the frequency and duration of daily walks and to engage in more playtime with the Neapolitan Mastiff.

Hypoallergenic

Are Neapolitan Mastiffs Hypoallergenic?

No

Unfortunately, the Neapolitan Mastiff is not hypoallergenic, making it not a good choice for a dog lover who suffers from pet allergies.

Temperament

What is a Neapolitan Mastiff personality? What are Neapolitan Mastiff dogs best known for?

Protective
Fearless
Stubborn
Dominant
Obedient
Trainable

Shedding Level

Are Neapolitan Mastiffs heavy shedders? How Much Does a Neapolitan Mastiff Shed?

Neapolitan Mastiff dogs are not heavy shedders, but they will lose a significant amount of hair each year. To decrease the amount of shedding, you can regularly brush your Neapolitan Mastiff. This will remove loose hair and keep his coat growing in the same direction.

Watchdog Ability

What is the watchdog ability of a Neapolitan Mastiff dog?

The Neapolitan Mastiff dog is one of the best choice if you want a good watchdog. This breed will keep watch over you and your family at all times. This breed takes this task seriously and will typically perform its guarding duty with little to no training. This dog will require obedience training, or you can consider guard dog training to sharpen its skills.

Breed History


Origin

Where do Neapolitan Mastiffs come from?

Italy

Ancestry

What are Neapolitan Mastiffs descended from?

british mastiff

Date of Birth

When were Neapolitan Mastiffs first bred? How old is the Neapolitan Mastiff breed?

ancient times

Breed Group

What Breed Group is a Neapolitan Mastiff?

Working (AKC:2004)
Guardian (UKC)

Neapolitan Mastiff Appearance


Eye Color Possibilites

What color are Neapolitan Mastiff eyes?

Brown
Amber

Nose Color Possibilites

What color can Neapolitan Mastiff nose be naturally?

Blue
Black
Brown
Isabella

Coat Color Possibilites

What color can Neapolitan Mastiff coat be naturally?

Black
Brown
Red
Fawn
Sable
Brindle

Coat Length

How long is a Neapolitan Mastiffs coat?

Neapolitan Mastiffs are known for their short coat.

Coat Density

How Dense Is The Neapolitan Mastiff Coat?

Coat Texture

What is the texture of the hair of a Neapolitan Mastiff?

Straight

Litter Size

How many puppies can a Neapolitan Mastiff have in a litter? How many puppies can a Neapolitan Mastiff have in her first litter?

8-10 puppies per pregnancy

A Neapolitan Mastiff can have a litter of 8-10 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

Neapolitan Mastiff dogs are a breed that can have difficulty adjusting to changes in lifestyle and living environments. They tend to be more comfortable in familiar and consistent surroundings.

Neapolitan Mastiff Health Issues


Health Issues

Do Neapolitan Mastiffs have a lot of health problems?

The Neapolitan Mastiff is a very healthy breed, with little need for frequent vet visits. However, it's important to keep an eye on their health and have them checked by a veterinarian when needed.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns to be aware of when owning a Neapolitan Mastiff?

Hip Dysplasia
Bloat

Minor Concerns

What are the less significant issues to keep in mind when it comes to Neapolitan Mastiffs?

Entropion
Ectropion
Cherry Eye

Occasional Diagnoses

Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Cataracts
Elbow Dysplasia
Fold Dermatitis

Occasional Tests

What are the occasional tests recommended for Neapolitan Mastiff breed?

Eye
Hip
Elbow
X-Rays
Eye Examination
Physical Examination

Neapolitan Mastiff Needs and Activities


Energy

Do Neapolitan Mastiffs have a lot of energy?

For those who lead a balanced lifestyle, Neapolitan Mastiffs may be a good choice as they have an average energy level.

Social Needs

Do Neapolitan Mastiffs need socialization? How social are Neapolitan Mastiffs?

Neapolitan Mastiffs have average social needs compared to other breeds. They are known to be less active and independent than other breeds, and they are content with spending time alone and with their human family.

Exercise Needed

How much exercise should Neapolitan Mastiffs get?

The Neapolitan Mastiffs a breed that requires only a small amount of physical activity to maintain a healthy lifestyle. These breeds are ideal for people with busy lifestyles, elderly people or those who have limited mobility. They also make great pets for those who live in small apartments or have limited outdoor space.

Sleeping Need

How much sleep should a Neapolitan Mastiff have? Do Neapolitan Mastiffs sleep a lot?

The Neapolitan Mastiff breed is known for its moderate energy levels and normal sleep patterns, typically sleeping around 12-14 hours per day.

Drooling Tendency

Does a Neapolitan Mastiff drool a lot?

The Neapolitan Mastiff is a breed known for excessive drooling which can cause a lot of drool to be left on clothes. If this is unappealing to you, it may be best to consider a different breed of dog.

Tendency to Bark

How much does it bark?

Neapolitan Mastiff dogs tends to bark less frequently than most other dogs. They tend to be quieter and less vocal than other breeds. They may only bark when necessary, such as to alert their owner of something or to communicate something. They do not bark excessively, and may not bark as much as other dogs in certain situations, such as when they are left alone.

Territorial

Do Neapolitan Mastiffs exhibit aggressive behavior to safeguard their home and territory? Do they possess a natural tendency to guard?

These dogs are known for being extremely protective and make excellent guard dogs. They possess a strong instinct to defend their territory and owners and have a high level of vigilance and alertness.

Mouthiness

Are Neapolitan Mastiffs mouthy?

Roaming urge

What is the likelihood of a Neapolitan Mastiff running away? Do they have a tendency to explore or wander frequently?

Prey Drive

Do Neapolitan Mastiff dogs have a high prey drive?

Past times

What do Neapolitan Mastiffs enjoy doing? How do I keep my Neapolitan Mastiff busy?

Hide & Seek

Activity Level

What is the energy level of a Neapolitan Mastiff? How much energy does a Neapolitan Mastiff have?

Medium

Neapolitan Mastiffs are medium-energy dogs and typically enjoy socializing and playing casual or even sustained games of chase with other dogs. They may also have occasional periods of barking or racing around the house.

Tolerance of being left alone

Walks per Week

How far should a Neapolitan Mastiff walk each week? How many miles should a Neapolitan Mastiff walk every week?

15 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Neapolitan Mastiff, it's at least 15 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

How much a Neapolitan Mastiff should exercise a day? How much activity does a Neapolitan Mastiff need?

60 minutes

In general most Neapolitan Mastiffs usually need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

Grooming

What level of grooming should be provided for a Neapolitan Mastiff?

The Neapolitan Mastiff is a breed of dog that is known for its low grooming needs.

Brushing Frequency

How often should you brush a Neapolitan Mastiff?

Weekly

Neapolitan Mastiff should be brushed at least once a week. Of course you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot

Brushing Tools

What are the most commonly used brushing tools for Neapolitan Mastiffs?

Slicker Brush
Nail Clipper

Costs


Cups

How many cups of food does a Neapolitan Mastiff eat?

6.5 cups

For an average 150-200 pound (68 - 91 kg) Neapolitan Mastiff feed 6.5 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

How Much Does a Neapolitan Mastiff Cost Daily?

$5.60 - $6.30 / day

The average cost of a Neapolitan Mastiff is somewhere $5.60 - $6.30 per day.

Monthly Cost

How Much Does a Neapolitan Mastiff Cost Per Month?

$168 - $189 / month

The average per month expenses of a Neapolitan Mastiff is between $168 - $189. This makes an average of $2016 - $2268 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

Neapolitan Mastiff Characteristic


Intelligence

How intelligent is a Neapolitan Mastiff?

The Neapolitan Mastiff have below the average degree of obedience intelligence among other breeds. However, calling them “dumb dogs” is unfair. Where Neapolitan Mastiffs lack in obedience & working intelligence, they make up for it with their keen ability to understand human emotions.

Sensitivity Level

How sensitive is a Neapolitan Mastiff dog?

This dog breed is more sensitive than others and easily overwhelmed by new surroundings and people. They need gentle handling and a calm, stable home environment with positive reinforcement training.

Affection Dependance

Are Neapolitan Mastiff dogs affectionate?

Apartment Friendly

Do Neapolitan Mastiff do well in apartments? Are Neapolitan Mastiffs good indoor dogs?

It's not recommended to keep the Neapolitan Mastiff in an apartment, but this breed make good apartment dogs as long as they get to spend a good amount of time outside of the apartment. Neapolitan Mastiffs living in apartments will need plenty of physical exercise and stimulation throughout the day to remain happy and well-behaved.

Child Friendly

Are Neapolitan Mastiffs good with kids? Are Neapolitan Mastiffs good around children?

Neapolitan Mastiffs are average friendly dogs towards children.

Senior-friendly

Are Neapolitan Mastiffs good for elderly?

Cat Friendly

Are Neapolitan Mastiffs good with cats? How friendly Neapolitan Mastiffs are toward cats?

Neapolitan Mastiffs are an average cat friendly dog. They do well with cats, even more if raised together from puppyhood,

Dog Friendly

Do Neapolitan Mastiff dogs get along with other dogs? Are Neapolitan Mastiffs OK with other dogs?

Neapolitan Mastiffs are not dog friendly dogs.

Pet friendly

How do Neapolitan Mastiff dogs interact with other pets? Are they considered pet-friendly?

Stranger Friendly

Are Neapolitan Mastiffs friendly with strangers?

Neapolitan Mastiffs are not stranger friendly dogs.

Playfulness

Do Neapolitan Mastiffs like to play? Are Neapolitan Mastiffs playful?

Neapolitan Mastiffs are not the most playful dog breed.

Trainability

Are Neapolitan Mastiff easily trained?

Neapolitan Mastiff may require more time, repetition and patience to learn commands than other breeds, and can be challenging to teach new things, but with patience and consistency, they can be trained.

Pros Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Rarely barks
    The Neapolitan Mastiff dog is known for being relatively quiet, making it a good pick for those looking for a more peaceful pet.
  • Loyal and protective
    Neapolitan Mastiffs are known for their strong protective instincts and are often very loyal to their families.
  • Good with children
    This breed is generally good with children and can make great family pets.
  • Low maintenance coat
    Neapolitan Mastiffs have a short, smooth coat that requires minimal grooming.

Cons

  • Odor
    An odor issue is probable with the Neapolitan Mastiff.
  • Large size
    Neapolitan Mastiffs are large dogs that require plenty of space and may not be suitable for apartment living.
  • Not Hypoallergenic
    People prone to allergies may have a reaction to Neapolitan Mastiffs, as they are not considered a hypoallergenic breed.
  • High energy
    Neapolitan Mastiffs have a lot of energy and require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.
  • Not suitable for office environment
    An office is not the best place for a Neapolitan Mastiff.
  • Tendency to gain weight
    The Neapolitan Mastiff breed is highly likely to gain weight.
  • Health issues
    As with any breed, Neapolitan Mastiffs may be prone to certain health issues, such as Hip Dysplasia, Bloat, Entropion, Ectropion and Cherry Eye, and other issues.