Neapolitan Mastiff

Rooted in ancient Roman war and estate dogs, the Neapolitan Mastiff was preserved in southern Italy—especially around Naples—as a farm and property guardian. Mid-20th-century fanciers, notably Piero Scanziani, organized and standardized the breed, emphasizing its hallmark loose skin, massive bone, and steady, defensive temperament. Today the Mastino is a recognized guardian breed worldwide, valued as a devoted family protector.

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An enormous, rectangular Molosser with abundant loose skin and heavy wrinkles.

• Weight: 150–200+ lb (male), 110–150 lb (female)
• Height: 26–31 in (male), 24–29 in (female)
• Coat Type: Short, dense, single coat
• Coat Colors: Gray/blue, black, mahogany, tawny; brindling and minimal white markings permitted
• Distinctive Physical Traits: Huge head with pendulous lips and dewlap, pronounced wrinkles, deep forechest, massive bone, thick low-set tail (natural), deliberate lion-like gait

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Low coat maintenance, high skin-fold care—and plan for drool.

• Brushing: 1×/week rubber curry or soft brush to remove dander
• Bathing: Every 6–8 weeks; fully dry skin folds
• Wrinkle Care: Daily wipe/air-dry facial and neck folds to prevent infection; use vet-approved drying lotions as needed
• Drool Management: Keep absorbent cloths handy; clean lips/neck after meals and water
• Ears/Eyes: Weekly ear cleaning; monitor for cherry eye and irritation
• Nails/Teeth: Trim nails every 2–4 weeks; brush teeth 2–3×/week
• Shedding: Low to moderate, heavier seasonally

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Moderate needs; protect joints and avoid heat.

• Daily Exercise: 45–60 minutes total (two easier walks + short training/play)
• Ideal Activities: Power walking, scent games, controlled tug/obedience, low-impact hikes
• Puppies/Adolescents: Slow, careful growth—avoid forced running, stairs, and slippery floors
• Climate Notes: Heat-sensitive; walk in cool hours and provide shade/water

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Intelligent, steady, and independent—calm leadership and consistency are key.

• Approach: Reward-based training; clear boundaries; avoid harsh corrections that erode trust
• Socialization: Early, systematic exposure to people, places, equipment handling, and neutral dogs
• Core Skills: Leash neutrality, impulse control (doors/food/visitors), reliable recall, cooperative care (muzzle training, nail work, wrinkle cleaning)
• Management: Secure fencing; thoughtful introductions; teach place/settle for visiting guests

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Feed for slow growth and joint health; keep them lean.

• Food Type: Large/giant-breed formula or balanced fresh diet tailored for giants
• Daily Quantity: ~4–7 cups/day split into two meals (adjust to age/activity)
• Puppies: Giant-breed puppy diet with controlled calcium/phosphorus to prevent rapid growth
• Add-Ons: Omega-3s (EPA/DHA) for skin/joints; joint supplements (glucosamine/green-lipped mussel) as advised
• Bloat Safety: No heavy exercise 60–90 min before/after meals; consider slow feeders and discuss prophylactic gastropexy with your vet

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Temperament, health, and lifelong support matter—so do local bylaws.

• Breeders: Choose preservation breeders who provide orthopedic/eye/heart/thyroid results, stable dam/sire temperaments, and lifetime take-back
• Adoption: Mastiff/guardian-breed rescues and breed-club rehomes; request full behaviour/health history
• Canadian Resources: CKC breeder directory; guardian-dog clubs; verify municipal/provincial bylaws (some areas restrict large guardian breeds)

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A powerful guardian with size- and type-related risks—screening is essential.

• Orthopedic: Hip and elbow dysplasia, cruciate ligament tears, osteochondritis
• Eyes/Skin: Cherry eye, entropion/ectropion, dermatitis/pyoderma in skin folds, demodectic mange (some lines)
• Cardiac/Endocrine: Dilated cardiomyopathy (some), hypothyroidism
• GI: Gastric dilatation–volvulus (bloat/GDV)
• Other: Heat intolerance
• Life Expectancy: 7–9 years
• Recommended Testing (breeders): Hips/elbows (OFA/FCI), cardiac evaluation, ophthalmologist (CAER), thyroid panel; discuss GDV prevention

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Are Neapolitan Mastiffs good family dogs?
Yes—in experienced homes that prioritize early socialization, training, and supervision due to their size and guarding instinct.

Do Neapolitan Mastiffs drool a lot?
Yes—expect frequent drool, especially after drinking or exercise; keep towels handy.

Do Neapolitan Mastiffs shed?
Light to moderate; weekly brushing controls hair and dander.

How much exercise does a Neapolitan Mastiff need?
About 45–60 minutes daily of low-impact walks and training—avoid strenuous or repetitive pounding.

Are Neapolitan Mastiffs hypoallergenic?
No.

Neapolitan Mastiff vs Cane Corso—what’s different?
Mastinos are heavier-boned with loose skin and abundant wrinkles, bred primarily for stationary deterrence; Corsos are tighter-skinned, more versatile farm/estate guardians. Lines vary—meet breeders’ dogs.

How do I clean Mastino wrinkles safely?
Gently wipe and dry folds daily, especially after meals; use vet-approved drying solutions and monitor for redness/odour.

Are Neapolitan Mastiffs good apartment dogs?
Generally not ideal—possible only with strong management, training, and space planning for a giant dog.

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