Neapolitan Mastiff

Temperament & Personality

The Neapolitan Mastiff is a true gentle giant. At home they are calm, mellow, and affectionate with their family. Neos are intensely loyal and protective; bred for centuries as estate guard dogs, they remain watchful and will defend loved ones if needed. Despite their fierce appearance, Neapolitans are usually sweet-natured indoors and enjoy lounging around. They thrive on human companionship and form strong bonds, but they can be wary or aloof with strangers at first. They have a low energy level around the house, preferring a slow-paced lifestyle: a couple of short daily walks are sufficient for exercise. With children in the family, Neos can be patient and gentle (supervision is advised due to the dog's size). They mature slowly and may retain puppy-like behavior for years. Overall, your Neapolitan Mastiff will be a steady, devoted companion – calm and confident with family, but naturally protective of its home.

Care, Living Environment, & Grooming

Neapolitan Mastiffs need moderate exercise and a lot of space. Aim for a couple of brisk walks daily; do not expect them to run long distances. They are sensitive to heat and humidity, so avoid exercising in hot weather. Indoors, provide cool floors and plenty of water. Because of their massive size, Neos do best in a home with a securely fenced yard; they are not apartment-friendly. They can adapt to indoor life but must have room to stretch and are prone to obesity if under-exercised.

The Neo's grooming needs are moderate despite the wrinkles. Their short, dense coat sheds at an average rate. A weekly brushing with a bristle brush keeps the coat healthy and removes loose hairs. Bathe only as needed (about once a month) and be prepared for splashing – Neos drool quite a bit. Daily care of skin folds is crucial: wipe and dry their wrinkles and jowls to prevent moisture and debris buildup. Check the ear folds and skin creases regularly for irritation. Trim nails monthly and brush teeth several times a week to prevent tartar.

• Weekly: Brush short coat; clean and thoroughly dry all facial wrinkles and skin folds; check ears and trim nails; brush teeth.
• Monthly: Bathe with gentle shampoo; trim nails (if still long).
• Daily: Wipe up drool and moisture from the jowls and wrinkles; provide plenty of fresh water.

Feed a large-breed or giant-dog formula twice a day. Neapolitans are prone to bloat (gastric torsion), so never free-feed. Use a slow-feeder bowl on the floor and feed only measured meals. Avoid vigorous activity right after meals.

Training & Socialization

Neapolitan Mastiffs are strong-willed, so early training is essential. Start obedience training and socialization from puppyhood. Use consistent, positive reinforcement methods (treats, praise); they respond well to calm, confident leadership. Puppy classes can help expose your Neo to different people and dogs, which is important because they tend to be suspicious of strangers. Teach basic commands (sit, stay, recall) and good manners early. Due to their independent nature (bred to guard), Neapolitans require patience: avoid harsh corrections or jerking the leash. Many experts advise that only experienced dog owners attempt this breed. In other words, start training early, be gentle yet firm, and maintain consistency. The effort pays off: a well-trained Neo is a devoted protector who obeys your commands and remains composed even around strangers.

Health Considerations

Neapolitan Mastiffs are generally healthy for a giant breed, but they do have breed-specific risks. Lifespan: about 8–10 years. Be prepared for these common conditions:

• Hip and elbow dysplasia: Genetic joint issues causing pain and lameness.
• Dilated cardiomyopathy: Heart muscle disease (may cause murmurs, weakness).
• Gastric dilatation-volvulus (bloat): Life-threatening stomach torsion.
• Cherry eye: Prolapsed gland in the third eyelid; usually corrected by surgery.
• Skin fold dermatitis: Wrinkled skin traps moisture and bacteria, leading to infections.
• Dental disease: Tartar and gum infection; very common (dental care is important).

Regular veterinary check-ups are vital. Screenings may include hip/elbow X-rays and cardiac exams. Because of their loose skin and eyes, veterinarians often monitor for skin infections and eye issues. Feeding a balanced diet, maintaining a healthy weight, and keeping wrinkles clean will help reduce problems.

Cost of Ownership

Owning a Neapolitan Mastiff is relatively expensive, averaging about $2,600 per year. Key costs include:

• Food & treats: ~$500/year. Giant-breed dry food is more expensive; an adult Neo may eat 4–6+ cups daily.
• Veterinary care: ~$800/year. Annual exams for large-breed seniors can run $125–$265, plus medications and preventive care.
• Insurance: ~$500/year (health coverage, recommended for a breed prone to expensive conditions).
• Grooming: ~$300/year if professionally bathed (they drool heavily). Home care (brushing/wiping) keeps salon visits minimal.
• Supplies & extras: ~$500/year (large bed, toys, dental care, heartworm and flea preventives).

The first year is highest in cost: a well-bred Neapolitan puppy can cost thousands, and expect another ~$1,500–$2,000 in puppy care (vaccines, spay/neuter, training, crates, etc.).

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Very calm, affectionate "gentle giant"
• Incredibly loyal and protective of family
• Good watchdog (intimidating appearance)
• Low activity needs (enjoys relaxing)
• Minimal shedding

Cons

• Extremely large (requires space and strength)
• Heavy drooling and considerable wrinkle care
• Stubborn and independent (training is challenging)
• Prone to serious health issues (shorter lifespan)
• Not suited for first-time owners or homes with very small children without strict supervision

Fun Facts

• Ancient lineage: Neapolitan Mastiffs trace their roots back thousands of years. Legends say Alexander the Great bred his war dogs with local Molossian dogs, giving rise to the Mastino – ancestors of today's Neos.
• Built-in armor: Their loose, wrinkled skin was literally bred as armor. During fights, the extra skin helped protect vital organs and prevented injuries – the loose folds also aid in cooling the dog's body.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Neapolitan Mastiffs shed a lot?

No, their short coat sheds only moderately. A weekly brushing will keep loose hairs under control. Regular grooming of skin folds is more important than frequent brushing.

Are Neapolitan Mastiffs good apartment dogs?

Generally not. Neos are massive and need room to move, so they prefer homes with yards. They can adapt to indoor life but usually will be uncomfortable in a small apartment. Give them space and exercise to be well-adjusted.

How much exercise does a Neapolitan Mastiff need?

Moderate exercise: they enjoy a couple of short daily walks. These dogs are not very active and are happy to lounge most of the day. Do NOT over-exercise them or jog long distances (they overheat easily and may strain joints).

Can first-time owners handle a Neapolitan Mastiff?

Not easily. Because of their size, stubbornness, and specific care needs, Neapolitan Mastiffs are best suited to owners who have handled large breeds before. First-timers may find Neos overwhelming without experience and patience.

References

1. American Kennel Club – Neapolitan Mastiff
2. PetMD – Neapolitan Mastiff
3. DogTime – Neapolitan Mastiff
4. Spring Valley Veterinary Clinic – Neapolitan Mastiff
5. PetBudget – Neapolitan Mastiff Cost