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Mastiff - English & Neapolitan - click to enlarge
Mastiff - English & Neapolitan - click to enlarge

English Mastiff & Neapolitan Mastiff Gifts

English Mastiff – The English Mastiff differs from the Neapolitan Mastiff largely in their appearance, with the English variation having a smoother skin. However, it is apparent that both are derived at least in part, from the same ancestors, the Molosser, a dog native to the region of Greece/Albania. It is suspected that the English Mastiff arrived in Britain as early as 500B.C. with sailing ships from Phoenicia. The large size and strength of the dog made it highly popular for blood sports such as bearbaiting. “Masty”, an Anglo-Saxon word meaning “powerful”... (continued below)


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(continued) ...is often cited as the origin of the name. Over time, the dog contributed to the development of other breeds where strength and size was required. They went on to guard duties, herding, and other pursuits less aggressive than in their early days. One export sailed to America on the Mayflower and more soon followed and were shared with other countries. This proved to be their saving grace, when the breed was almost extinct after two world wars, in which it was hard to find food for large dogs. The breed in England revived with dogs from the U.S. and Canada, and is now employed for everything from military to duty to search and rescue or cart pulling. Unlike most breeds, the height standard for the English Mastiff, known simply as the Mastiff in the AKC, starts with a minimum of 27 ½ inches for females and 30 inches for males. The same applies to weights, which are suggested only as an average of 150 lbs. for females and 160 lbs. for males. The passing of many centuries has eradicated the original fierce nature of the English Mastiff, leaving a gentle and dignified dog. They are sociable, affectionate, live to please and crave the attention of humans. While good with children they are not recommended where there are very young ones, simply because of their size. A Mastiff is always on guard duty for their people and territory. Unlikely to attack, they have been known to hold strangers at bay, and occasionally are dog aggressive if not well socialized as a puppy. © DogDecor.com

Neapolitan Mastiff – Like a similar “cousin”, the English Mastiff, the Neapolitan Matiff dog descended from the Molossers, a Grecian dog that was in its turn, a descendant of Tibetan Mastiffs, thought to be the oldest of canine breeds. The dog was part of a cultural heritage passed from the Greeks to the Romans, where it was prized for its size, strength and ferocity, which was put to work in blood sports. At one time a thriving breed used over the centuries for guard duty and hauling carts, the Neapolitan virtually disappeared from Europe due to the deprivations of two world wars, but survived in the southern Italy pocket of Campania, the birthplace of the modern breed. It’s primary difference from the English Mastiff, lies in the well-wrinkled face which extends down into the neck. It is a relatively rare dog in North America. A Neapolitan Mastiff stands 24-30 inches at the withers, and averages 165 lbs. although 200 lb. specimens are not unusual. Acceptable colors are black, gray, tawny and mahogany, with or without reverse brindling. Minimal white is permitted in specific areas. The only thing the Neapolitan Mastiff retains from its past as an aggressive fighter, is the massive size which was used for intimidation, and the wrinkled skin. Today the Neapolitan has a solid temperament and calm demeanor. A natural at guard duty, they will protect their family and territory if challenged, requiring firm and early obedience training to make sure they are totally responsive to commands. This is generally not a problem since they love to please and are a very intelligent animal. Neapolitan Mastiffs get along well with considerate children, but may not be a good choice around youngsters due to their size. When socialized early they accept other family pets, and will not challenge strange ones unless threatened. Some males may be more dog aggressive than others. © DogDecor.com
  
 
     
 


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