Icelandic Sheepdog vs Neapolitan Mastiff
Breed Compatibility
78% Compatible
Energy Level
Icelandic Sheepdog: Energetic0.8
Neapolitan Mastiff: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Icelandic Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Neapolitan Mastiff: May be Stubborn0.2
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Icelandic Sheepdog: Weekly Brushing0.4
Neapolitan Mastiff: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Luxury
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Icelandic Sheepdog5/5
Neapolitan Mastiff3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Icelandic Sheepdog4/5
Neapolitan Mastiff3/5
Good with Strangers
Icelandic Sheepdog3/5
Neapolitan Mastiff3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Icelandic Sheepdog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Cataracts: Vision impairment
PRA: Progressive eye disease
Distichiasis: Abnormal eyelash growth
Cryptorchidism: Retained testicles
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap issues
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
Icelandic Sheepdog
Pros
Highly trainable
Good with families
Weather resistant coat
Excellent herding instincts
Cons
Heavy shedding
High exercise needs
Can be vocal
Strong herding drive
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
Icelandic Sheepdog Fun Fact
These dogs survived near extinction in the 1950s when only about 50 remained in their native Iceland.
Neapolitan Mastiff Fun Fact
Ancient Roman coins have been found depicting dogs remarkably similar to modern Neapolitan Mastiffs.
Heritage & Purpose
Icelandic Sheepdog
Origin:
Dating back to the 9th century in Iceland, these dogs served as invaluable herding companions to Viking settlers, managing sheep across rugged terrain and harsh weather conditions.
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
Icelandic Sheepdog
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Requires substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation. Monitor for common breed-specific health 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.
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