Temperament: The Neapolitan Mastiff is highly protective and fearless. It was developed to look and act fearsome when needed, but is affectionate with its family. This breed is extremely intelligent and somewhat willful. It is serious, calm and quiet unless provoked. However this dog is very loving with children, provided they do not tease it. The Female makes a better family pet, as she is more submissive to her master and better with children, but children should be taught to respect this dog. This dog is very wary of strangers. It makes a very good watchdog and guard dog. The Male does not get along with other males, but the Neo can get along well with non-canine pets if raised with them from puppyhood. Males tend to be more aggressive and dominant than females. The Neapolitan Mastiff must be well socialized at an early age to avoid over-protectiveness, though it will be quite protective even with extensive socialization. Additional protection training is unnecessary because it is naturally a guard dog. Thorough obedience training is highly recommended. The Neapolitan Mastiff is not a breed for everyone; it requires an owner who knows how to display strong leadership and who is willing to spend a lot of time socializing and training. You will achieve the best results with patient, consistent training. It doesn’t require repetitious training. Due to its early fighting background the Neo is generally very tolerant of pain. Males often drool quite heavily; they tend to drool more in hot weather or after drinking water. Do not let the young, Neapolitan Mastiff run and play too much, limit its exercise because it must on no account be over-tired. In the growing stage avoid rough games and ensure that all its energy is available to make healthy bones and muscles. The adult dog needs a great deal of exercise; it should be taken on long walks twice a day.
