Hovawart vs Neapolitan Mastiff

Hovawart
Hovawart

Alert, Faithful, Intelligent

Neapolitan Mastiff
Neapolitan Mastiff

Loyal, Dignified, Watchful

Breed Compatibility

89% Compatible

Energy Level

Hovawart: Regular Exercise0.6
Neapolitan Mastiff: Regular Exercise0.6
Very Compatible

Trainability

Hovawart: May be Stubborn0.2
Neapolitan Mastiff: May be Stubborn0.2
Very Compatible

Grooming Needs

Hovawart: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Neapolitan Mastiff: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible

Cost Category

Premium
Luxury
Very Compatible

Compatibility with Others

Good with Children
Hovawart4/5
Neapolitan Mastiff3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Hovawart4/5
Neapolitan Mastiff3/5
Good with Strangers
Hovawart4/5
Neapolitan Mastiff3/5

Living Requirements

Health & Care Comparison

Hovawart

Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Thyroid Issues: Hormone imbalances
Eye Problems: Various ocular conditions
Heart Disease: Cardiac health concerns
Bloat: Digestive emergency risk
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development issue

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

Hovawart

Pros
Loyal and protective
Intelligent
Good with family
Weather-resistant coat
Cons
Strong-willed
Needs extensive training
High exercise needs
Reserved with strangers

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

Hovawart Fun Fact

Hovawarts were mentioned in German law books from the 13th century as valuable property worth defending.

Neapolitan Mastiff Fun Fact

Ancient Roman coins have been found depicting dogs remarkably similar to modern Neapolitan Mastiffs.

Heritage & Purpose

Hovawart

Origin:

Developed in medieval Germany as estate guardians and working farm dogs. Black Forest farmers valued these dogs for their protective instincts and versatile working abilities.

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

Hovawart

Needs consistent training from an early age. Regular grooming during shedding seasons. Exercise requirements must be met daily to prevent behavioral issues.

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.

Shedding

Seasonal

Shedding

Seasonal

Related Comparisons