Australian Shepherd vs Neapolitan Mastiff
Breed Compatibility
83% Compatible
Energy Level
Australian Shepherd: Energetic0.8
Neapolitan Mastiff: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Australian Shepherd: Eager to Please1.0
Neapolitan Mastiff: May be Stubborn0.2
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Australian Shepherd: Weekly Brushing0.4
Neapolitan Mastiff: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Luxury
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Australian Shepherd5/5
Neapolitan Mastiff3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Australian Shepherd3/5
Neapolitan Mastiff3/5
Good with Strangers
Australian Shepherd3/5
Neapolitan Mastiff3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Australian Shepherd
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
MDR1 Gene: Drug sensitivity issue
CEA: Hereditary eye condition
Epilepsy: Neurological disorder
Cataracts: Vision impairment risk
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development
Neapolitan Mastiff
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Cherry Eye: Third eyelid disorder
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
Ectropion: Eyelid rolls outward
Heart Issues: Cardiac concerns
Skin Fold Dermatitis: Wrinkle care
Pros & Cons Comparison
Australian Shepherd
Pros
Highly intelligent
Excellent work ethic
Versatile abilities
Strong protective instincts
Athletic and agile
Cons
High exercise needs
Intense herding instinct
Heavy shedding
Can be too energetic
Requires constant mental stimulation
Neapolitan Mastiff
Pros
Extremely loyal to family
Excellent guardian
Gentle with family members
Low exercise needs
Cons
Heavy drooling
Significant health issues
Expensive maintenance
Not suitable for novice owners
Australian Shepherd Fun Fact
Australian Shepherds, despite their name, were actually developed in the western United States, not Australia!
Neapolitan Mastiff Fun Fact
Ancient Roman coins have been found depicting dogs remarkably similar to modern Neapolitan Mastiffs.
Heritage & Purpose
Australian Shepherd
Origin:
Developed in western United States during the 1800s, these dogs excelled in herding livestock across challenging terrain. Their versatile skills and keen intelligence made them invaluable to ranchers.
Neapolitan Mastiff
Origin:
Ancient Roman warriors bred these dogs in southern Italy as estate guardians and military dogs. Their intimidating presence and protective nature made them valued protectors of family and property.
Special Considerations
Australian Shepherd
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Requires extensive daily exercise and mental stimulation. Health testing for MDR1 gene mutation recommended.
Neapolitan Mastiff
Requires dedicated wrinkle cleaning and maintenance. Exercise must be moderate to protect joints. Regular vet care essential for monitoring breed-specific health issues.
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