| Origin |
The first Asian mastiffs were probably
brought to Greece from India by Alexander the Great around 300 B.C. The
Greeks introduced the dogs to the Romans, who adopted them
enthusiastically and used them in circus combats. |
| Popularity (Scale 1 to 5) |
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| Uses |
The Neapolitan Mastiff was bred for use
in war and in bloody Roman arena spectacles. Today this powerful breed
has a well-deserved reputation as a formidable guard dog. |
| Coat |
The short, harsh coat is dense and
smooth. |
| Size |
Height: Dogs 26-30 inches (65-75 cm.)
Females 24-28 inches (60-70 cm.)
Weight: Up to 165 pounds (74 kg.)
The largest male Neapolitans may be nearly 200 pounds (90 kg.) |
| Coloring |
The most common coat color is blue,
though black is the next most common color. Chocolate dogs are rare. |
| Physical Features |
serious, powerful, looking dog;
muscular with a rather rectangular body, massive head, and wrinkled face |
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