A big size, a whole lot of skin, and slow moving make the uniformed observer think of the Neapolitan Mastiff as a hot, sloppy mess of a dog.
They couldn’t be more wrong.
Does the Neo below look like a lumbering hot mess to you?
Standing still, the Neapolitan Mastiff is a picture of substance and bestial other-worldliness. On earth (grin), he is a powerful and formidable dog. Upon seeing the breed for the first time, however, most people can’t get past the size and wrinkles.
Let us tell you a little something about those “folds of love.” They have purpose. In addition to sharing the bejeebers out of bad guys intent on robbing an Italian estate, a Nea can make mincemeat out of an opponent because that thick, loose skin acts like a suit of armor. Well divided dewlaps protect vital arteries, and an opponent trying to inflict damage typically fails to reach vital organs, and insteads, ends up with a mouth full of wrinkly skin. The appearance and expression created by the delineated and symmetrical wrinkles and folds of skin are vital to breed type. There is nothing that looks like a Neapolitan Mastiff.
Image: Neapolitan Mastiff art print by is available for purchase here