Schapendoes vs Neapolitan Mastiff
Breed Compatibility
87% Compatible
Energy Level
Schapendoes: Regular Exercise0.6
Neapolitan Mastiff: Regular Exercise0.6
Very Compatible
Trainability
Schapendoes: Easy Training0.8
Neapolitan Mastiff: May be Stubborn0.2
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Schapendoes: Weekly Brushing0.4
Neapolitan Mastiff: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Luxury
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Schapendoes3/5
Neapolitan Mastiff3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Schapendoes5/5
Neapolitan Mastiff3/5
Good with Strangers
Schapendoes3/5
Neapolitan Mastiff3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Schapendoes
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
PRA: Progressive retinal deterioration
Cataracts: Clouding of eye lens
Epilepsy: Neurological seizure disorder
Dental Issues: Periodontal disease risk
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap dislocation
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
Schapendoes
Pros
Excellent family companion
Good with children
Highly trainable
Weather-resistant coat
Athletic and agile
Cons
Regular grooming required
High exercise needs
Can be vocal
Strong herding instinct
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
Schapendoes Fun Fact
Their distinctive shaggy coat naturally repels water and dirt, a trait developed for working in Dutch weather.
Neapolitan Mastiff Fun Fact
Ancient Roman coins have been found depicting dogs remarkably similar to modern Neapolitan Mastiffs.
Heritage & Purpose
Schapendoes
Origin:
Dutch shepherds developed these dogs in the 1800s to herd sheep in the Netherlands' challenging terrain. Their agile nature and weather-resistant coat proved invaluable.
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
Schapendoes
Regular grooming needed for coat maintenance. High exercise requirements must be met. Early socialization important to manage herding instincts.
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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