Neapolitan Mastiff

An ancient breed, very similar to other species of mastiffs, very large in size, they often drool and require a great deal of expense to raise. The prominent hanging flesh stretches from the head folded to the neck, thus creating the appearance of multiple layers of cheeks. The impression of the Neapolitan Mastiff is robust and sturdy, heavy-boned, with a stout body, rectangular in proportion. The length of the body is about 10-15% more than the width.

The head is large relative to the body. Unlike other mastiffs it has many wrinkles, drooping lips and incorporates rich hanging flesh. The upper line of the skull and the mouth must be parallel. The face consists of thick wrinkles and folds. The necessary folds are from the outer edge of the eyelids to the throat, and from the lower and bottom of the lips to the outer edge of the lips.

Melancholy at rest, alert when threatened. The vision is keen. Eyes are deep and almost hidden in the drooping upper eyelids. Lower eyelids droop, revealing instantaneous special marks. The length of the dog, from the shoulder to the rump, is 10-15% greater than the height of the dog, from the highest point of the shoulder to the ground. The depth of the thorax is equal to half of the dog and height. The rib cage is long and flexible.

The back is wide and strong. The highest part of the scapula rises almost higher than the strong, horizontal dorsal line.

The tail is positioned slightly lower than the dorsal line and is broad and thick at the root, tapering to the tip. The remaining tail is straight or hanging in a slight "S" shape. When active, the tail is raised horizontally or slightly above the dorsal line.

The coat is short, dense, and of the same length and smoothness all over. The hair is straight and no more than 1 inch long. No whiskers.

The Neapolitan Mastiff's movements are not elegant, but rather slow and awkward. The general gait is walk, trot, gallop and canter. The stride is long and elastic, while very strong, especially from the rear drive to the front leg extension has a long push. There is body sway and swing in all gaits. No points will be deducted for slow walking at presentation. A slight paddle-like movement of the front legs is normal. The head is held horizontally up or slightly above the back. A large mastiff, not suitable for living in the city, preferably in the suburbs, spacious exercise recreation is very important to him. This dog sports a large swing and awkward features, not the elegant or splendid type.

This dog is confident, naturally soft and strong. He has an aristocratic temperament and is very docile. Down-to-earth and loyal, he will not attack or bite at will for no reason. He is able to protect his owner and his property, and is always alert. Terrible if provoked, so need to be trained consistently from an early age.

Neapolitan Mastiff is stable and alert, does not like strangers intruding on its territory. Its attitude should be calm but alert. In the show, it should show solemn and powerful but not showy.