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ABOUT DOG BREEDS
 NEAPOLITAN MASTIFF
Description Temperament Height and Weight Health Problems
Ideal Living Conditions Exercise Life Expectancy Litter Size
Grooming Origin Group Color
Breed Clubs Breed Rescues

Description
The Neapolitan Mastiff has a very distinct appearance. It is a large breed that has a significant amount of dewlap on its body. A bit out of proportion with its body, the breed has a massive head. It has small ears and a gentle facial features. Its neck is very thick and angles to muscular shoulders and a strong back. Its tail is somewhat short and usually rests away from the hocks. The legs are somewhat short, but well muscled. Its back legs are very angled while its front legs are straight with slightly bent elbows.
Temperament
Despite its massive size, the Neapolitan Mastiff is a gentle breed. It has a protective nature and makes an excellent watchdog, but it will probably not attack. Only its size prevents it from being a good companion for children. It generally gets along with other pets, but it is recommended that they be raised together. This breed is typically very easy going and obedient. It loyalty to its owner is unwavering. Training the breed should not be a problem. Although it is sociable, it may react suspiciously to strangers.
Height and Weight
The Neapolitan Mastiff is an average of 23-30 inches tall and weighs about 145-180 pounds.
Health Problems
The Neapolitan Mastiff may develop some serious health problems, including diabetes, joint problems, and liver dysfunction. Many of the health problems are attributed to the breed becoming overweight. Good nutrition and exercise may help prevent health problems from developing in this breed.
Ideal Living Conditions
Close human contact is important to the Neapolitan Mastiff. It is probably more suitable for outdoor living conditions since it is more apt to be active. However, the breed will do fine indoors, as long as it receives daily exercise.
Exercise
The Neapolitan Mastiff is susceptible to some serious health problems that may develop from it not being active. It is essential that this breed receive regular exercise. The breed only needs regular opportunities of light exercise.
Life Expectancy
The Neapolitan Mastiff has an average life expectancy of only 10 years.
Litter Size
The Neapolitan Mastiff generally has an average of 6-12 puppies.
Grooming
The short and thick coat of the Neapolitan Mastiff only needs an occasional brushing. A bit more brushing may be necessary during shedding season. Cleaning under its loose skin should be a part of grooming this breed.
Origin
The Neapolitan Mastiff is an ancient breed of Italy. For most its existence the breed has been a par
Group
Working
Color
The most common color of the Neapolitan is gray. Other acceptable colors for the breed include black, grayish-brown, and dark brown.
Breed Clubs
The Neapolitan Mastiff Parent Club http://www.neapolitan.org The Neapolitan Mastiff Club UK http://www.theneapolitanmastiffclubuk.com Garden State Neapolitan Mastiff Club http://www.gsnmc.com Pacific Northwest Neapolitan Mastiff Club http://www.northwestmastini.org Neapolitan Mastiff Club of NSW http://www.mastinoau.com Canadian National Neapolitan Mastiff Club http://www.canadianneo.com
Breed Rescues
NeoRescue.net http://www.neorescue.ntNeapolitan Mastiff Club Rescue http://www.mastinoau.com/rescue.htm Operation K9 Rescue http://www.operationk9escue.com/breed-neo.aspGreat Lakes Mastiff Rescue, Inc http://www.glmr.org/faq.html Neapolitan Mastiff Rescue http://www.canineworld.com/neorescue

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