Page 91 - The Complete Dog Breed Book Choose the Perfect Dog for You, New Edition (DK)

W ORKING DOG S 91

NEAPOLITAN MASTIFF

THIS CANINE HEAVYWEIGHT MAKES A LOYAL COMPANION FOR A RESPONSIBLE OWNER AKC

Height range Said to have descended from the Molussus fighting dogs Large head
24–30 in (60–75 cm) used in the Roman amphitheater, the Neapolitan Mastiff with loose-
fitting skin
Weight range has an intimidating appearance: huge, heavy-headed,
110–154 lb (50–70 kg)
and with a stern expression. The breed has mainly been
Life span Up to 10 years used as a guard dog and by the police and armed
Origin Italy forces. It needs a confident and
capable owner.

Tail thick at base,
Other colors tapers to tip Moderate
dewlap

Variety of Ears set
colors well apart
on broad skull Short, gray
coat with
hard texture
Deep muzzle with
pendulous flews

White patch
on tip of toe

DOGUE DE BORDEAUX

THIS NONAGGRESSIVE GUARD DOG IS MORE AGILE THAN ITS SIZE SUGGESTS AKC

Height range This old French breed was once used for hunting and fighting. The Head furrowed
with wrinkles
23–27 in (58–68 cm) Dogue de Bordeaux’s instincts make it a natural guard dog but,
Weight range lacking aggression, it is easier to train and socialize than
99–110 lb (45–50 kg)
some mastiff types. Experienced handling is still Muscular,
Life span 10–12 years necessary, however, if this powerful and loose-skinned
neck
Origin France athletic dog is to fit comfortably
into a family home.

Thick tail carried
low at rest

Brown
nose

Dewlap
from throat Short, fine-haired, Heavily
to chest soft, fawn coat muscled legs

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