You can’t help but fall in love with this large, ancient dog breed. Their droopy, wrinkly faces are super cute, but their sweet temperament and willingness to relax on the couch make them great family pets.

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The powerful, sombre Neapolitan Mastiff is a master of ‘laying air biscuits’ and a super drooler. Run out of air-fresheners and wipes at your own risk. Neat freaks might want to stay away. But what they lack in manners, they make up for with their affectionate, gentle and mellow disposition. However, don’t be fooled by their unwieldy, sluggish gait – they are watchdogs at heart and courageous, even ferocious if needed. They are very protective of their family and home, but will rarely show aggression without reason.

The massive, wrinkly Neapolitan Mastiffs are good playmates (and cuddly back-rests) for older children. However, the little ones may not be impressed with their intimidating size and look. They do well with other pets if socialised early and well. Be firm, confident, consistent and assertive while training them or your Mastiff will turn into one willful, over-protective buddy. Start habits early – if you don’t want your massive Mastiff on your delicate coffee table, make sure it’s off limits even when your pal is a puppy. Neapolitan Mastiffs are large dogs, growing to roughly 79cms tall!

Fun fact: Originally bred as war dogs, this breed is one of the largest.

They are quite happy being couch potatoes when indoors, and will do well in an apartment provided it is as large as their sprawl. However, a daily exercise routine is best. A few short walks or play work well. Try not to strain your buddy in the early years to avoid undue stress on their joints and bones. They are sensitive to heat, so restrict outdoor time to early mornings or late evenings. They are not great swimmers.

This distinctive looking breed has a short-haired, abundant coat (usually in grey, black, mahogany or tan) that is easy to groom. Brush them weekly to remove loose and dead hair. Their face, with its heavy, smooth wrinkles and folds should be wiped with a damp cloth and then dried thoroughly. Brush their teeth and trim their nails regularly. Neapolitan Mastiffs are average shedders.

Scheduled six monthly health check visits with your vet are important to ensure that your dog is healthy and happy throughout all life stages. Neapolitan Mastiffs are prone to bone developmental issues.

Together with your vet, you can determine and maintain a preventative health care program based on the individual needs of your canine companion.

Size

Neapolitan Mastiffs are a giant-sized breed weighing 50-68kg, with a height between 61-79cms.

Space

A Neapolitan Mastiff will be happy curled up in an apartment, provided they get enough exercise and have enough space.

Energy Levels

The equivalent of a gym-bunny, loving a good workout, but they also love napping. Daily walks and lots of games are ideal for keeping this breed fit.

Difficulty of Training

They are intelligent, but strong-willed and may not always listen. Consistency is the key.

Family Suitability

They are great family pets, loyal companions and excellent watchdogs.

Compatibility with other Pets

They love meeting new pets and will befriend other cats or dogs if socialised from a young age.  

Need for Company

They have a moderate need for company and enjoy spending time with their family.

Hypoallergenic Dog Breed?

No

Coat and Grooming Needs

This breed requires moderate maintenance. They have a short coat in black, blue, mahogany or tawny. Brush them weekly and wipe down their face regularly.

Shedding

They shed moderately.

Tendency to Bark

They have a low tendency to bark, so don’t expect frequent conversations.

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