Page 94 - (DK) The Dog Encyclopedia

CATALOG OF BREEDS | WORKING DOGS

Neapolitan Mastiff

HEIGHT WEIGHT LIFE SPAN Variety of colors
24–30in 110–154lb Up to 10 years
(60–75cm) (50–70kg)

This canine heavyweight makes a loyal companion
HAGRID’S GIANT PET
for a responsible owner with plenty of space
In the stories about Harry Potter, the boy wizard,
Fang is a dog belonging to the half-giant Rubeus
The ancestors of this imposing breed The breed has an intimidating appearance:
Hagrid, keeper of the grounds for Hogwarts were the Molossus fighting dogs used in huge, heavy-headed, and with a stern
School. Despite his scary exterior, Hagrid has
the Roman amphitheater and as dogs of expression. Despite its heavy frame, the
a kind heart. He is noted for keeping dangerous
pets and lovingly overlooking their ferocity. Like war in the Roman armies. The armies took Neapolitan Mastiff can be quick and agile
his master, Fang looks fierce but is friendly, with the dogs with them across Europe, thus when taking action against threats to its
a bark a lot worse than his bite. Although he is giving rise to the various mastiff breeds. owners or territory. The breed is now
called a “boarhound” in the books, Neapolitan
In the area around Naples, these dogs employed by the Italian armed forces
Mastiffs were chosen for the films; their size survived as guard dogs, produced by and police force, and is used as a guard
and appearance matches Fang’s character
breeders known as Mastinari. Although dog on farms and country estates.
exactly. Fang is seen below on the red carpet
at the premiere of Harry Potter and the Half- highly prized, their numbers dwindled, The Neapolitan Mastiff can be calm,
Blood Prince held at the Gard du Nord, Paris. until, in the 1940s, they became primarily friendly, and devoted to its family, but it
known through enthusiasts, including the needs a confident and capable owner to
writer Piero Scanziani who had his own socialize it effectively. Because of its size,
breeding kennels. The dog is now honored this dog needs lots of living space and
as the national mastiff of Italy. can be expensive to maintain.

Large head with
loose-fitting skin

Drop ears set well
apart on broad skull

Deep muzzle
Gray with pendulous
flews

Tail thick at Moderate
base, tapers dewlap
to tip

Short coat with
harsh texture

White patch
on tip of toe

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