Neapolitan Mastiff
Male: 60-70 kg; Female: 50-60 kg
Male: 65-75 cm; Female: 60-68 cm
7-10 years
Italy
About the Neapolitan Mastiff
The Neapolitan Mastiff, or Mastino Napoletano, is a giant breed characterized by its massive frame and an abundance of loose, wrinkled skin, particularly around the head and neck. This ancient breed descends from the Molossus dogs of Roman antiquity, preserved for centuries in the Campania region of Italy. They possess a heavy, rectangular silhouette and a lumbering, powerful gait that reflects their history as formidable estate guardians. While their appearance is often described as intimidating, they are known for their 'gentle giant' nature with their own families. They are calm indoors but remain highly observant of their surroundings. Due to their immense size and specific physical needs, they require owners who are experienced in managing giant breeds and dedicated to the maintenance of their unique skin and health requirements.
Breed Standard
Key characteristics from the breed standard
In the show ring, the Neapolitan Mastiff is judged on its unique 'type,' where the abundance of wrinkles and the presence of a pronounced double dewlap are essential features. The head must be massive with a short muzzle and a deep, square jaw. Their movement is distinct—slow and rolling, rather than brisk, conveying a sense of immense, unhurried power. What truly sets the 'Mastino' apart is its soul-stirring presence; it carries an ancient, stoic dignity that no other breed can replicate, appearing like a living statue from the Roman era. Their skin, though loose, should never appear unhealthy, and their heavy bone structure must be perfectly balanced to maintain functional movement.
In Australia
The Neapolitan Mastiff arrived in Australia in the late 1980s, with the first specimens imported from Europe, specifically Italy, the breed's country of origin. The first recorded litter was born in November 1992, as documented by Dogs NSW. Efforts were subsequently made to establish the breed within the Australian National Kennel Council, now known as Dogs Australia, through official recognition and standard adoption.
Bred For
Guardian of the estate, protector of person and property, and war dog.
Temperament
Steady, loyal, and vigilant. They are naturally protective and wary of strangers while being profoundly devoted and affectionate toward their family.
Health Conditions Reported in the Breed
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Exercise Needs
Moderate daily exercise, such as long walks; however, strenuous activity should be avoided during the heat of the day and during the rapid growth phase of puppyhood.
Grooming Needs
Low maintenance for the coat, but high maintenance for the skin. Daily cleaning of facial wrinkles and skin folds is essential to prevent infections.
Living Suitability
Not suited for apartments. They require a home with a large, secure yard and plenty of indoor space to accommodate their massive size.
Good with Kids
Generally good with children in their own family, but their sheer size and strength can be hazardous to toddlers; supervision is always required.
Good with Other Pets
Can be dominant with other dogs, particularly those of the same sex. Early socialization is critical for harmonious living with other household pets.
Trainability
Highly intelligent but independent and occasionally stubborn. They require firm, consistent, and positive reinforcement-based training from an early age.
Coat & Colours
Short, dense, and hard.. Grey, leaden-grey, black, mahogany, and tawny (fawn), sometimes with small white patches on the chest and toes.
Exercise needs vary by age, fitness, health, weather and individual temperament. Consult your veterinarian for an exercise plan appropriate for your dog.
Things to Consider
Every breed has its quirks — here's what to know
Neapolitan Mastiffs are predisposed to Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (Bloat), a life-threatening condition where the stomach twists; owners must monitor for symptoms and avoid exercise after meals. They are also more likely to experience skin fold dermatitis if their wrinkles are not cleaned daily, as moisture and bacteria trap easily in the folds. Like many giant breeds, they are prone to joint issues such as hip and elbow dysplasia, which can be managed with weight control and low-impact exercise. Owners should be prepared for significant slobber and drool, particularly after eating or drinking, which is a hallmark of the breed's facial structure. Furthermore, many Neapolitan Mastiffs can be sensitive to standard commercial kibble, often experiencing flatulence or digestive upset; they frequently thrive on a fresh, species-appropriate diet. While they are protective, their sheer size means they can be 'clumsy' in small spaces, often unaware of their own bulk. These traits are part of their unique charm and can be managed effectively with a dedicated routine and an informed approach to their care.
Feeding Guide for Your Neapolitan Mastiff
Healthy Weight
50-70 kg
Daily Feeding Amount (general starting estimate)
1000-2100g
For an adult Neapolitan Mastiff, a raw diet should consist of approximately 2-3% of their ideal body weight daily. Some owners use smaller divided meals and avoid strenuous activity immediately around feeding. These steps cannot guarantee prevention of gastric dilatation-volvulus. Seek urgent veterinary care if bloat is suspected.
Feeding quantities are general starting estimates only. Individual needs vary with body condition, weight trends, age, health and activity. Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition — consult a veterinarian for individualised dietary guidance.
Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition. Seek veterinary or qualified canine nutrition guidance for individualised dietary advice. Raw feeding, specific proteins or fresh foods should not be presented as preventing, treating or managing breed health conditions without veterinary diagnosis and supervision.
Majestik's Recommended Feeding Approach
Breed Diet Notes
Some owners use smaller divided meals and avoid strenuous activity immediately around feeding. These steps cannot guarantee prevention of gastric dilatation-volvulus. Seek urgent veterinary care if bloat is suspected.
A balanced raw diet for a Neapolitan Mastiff should include a variety of proteins such as beef, lamb, and kangaroo, which are readily available from Majestik. Including omega-3 fatty acids from fish or oils is beneficial for skin health. Given their predisposition to joint issues, supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin are recommended. Avoid high-carbohydrate fillers that can lead to excessive weight gain and flatulence.
These are general breed-level notes only. The appropriate food and serving amount depend on the individual dog's age, health, body condition, activity and tolerance.
Majestik Recommendation
Majestik BARF meals follow our practical 70/10/10/10 approach: approximately 70% quality meat and protein ingredients, 10% edible bone, 10% vegetables and 10% offal. This gives customers a convenient fresh-food option without needing to source and portion every ingredient themselves.
Our Beef, Lamb and Roo BARF meals provide convenient fresh-food options, with suitable proteins chosen or rotated according to the individual dog.
Suitable for different needs
- Healthy adult: Majestik adult Beef, Lamb or Roo BARF meal.
- Puppy: Majestik Premium Puppy.
- Senior: Majestik Senior Blend.
- Working or highly active dog: Suitable Majestik adult meal with quantity adjusted to workload and body condition.
- Protein trial: One Majestik protein at a time.
Recommended Majestik BARF Meals
This is a practical starting recommendation for healthy dogs. Individual needs vary with age, health, body condition and activity.
Neapolitan Mastiff Feeding Calculator
Personalised raw and cooked feeding recommendations based on your dog's profile
Ideal — Ribs palpable without excess fat. Visible waist. Abdominal tuck present.
Have a question about your Neapolitan Mastiff? Dog Health AI
Why Majestik?
Fresh, raw pet food made with integrity in South Australia
Australian Made
Made in Two Wells, South Australia
Freshly Prepared
Real meat, organs, bone & wholefood ingredients
No Fillers
No cheap fillers or artificial preservatives
Family Owned
Locally owned and operated
Local Delivery
Delivery across Adelaide & selected areas
Secure Checkout
Secure payment via Shopify checkout
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Breed Records & Facts
Average Litter Size
6-10 puppies
Neapolitan Mastiff Owner Feedback
Real experiences and tips from Neapolitan Mastiff owners
Other Giant Breeds
References & Sources
Breed information verified against recognised breed authorities and veterinary evidence.