Shetland Sheepdog vs Neapolitan Mastiff
Breed Compatibility
74% Compatible
Energy Level
Shetland Sheepdog: Regular Exercise0.6
Neapolitan Mastiff: Regular Exercise0.6
Very Compatible
Trainability
Shetland Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Neapolitan Mastiff: May be Stubborn0.2
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Shetland Sheepdog: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Neapolitan Mastiff: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Luxury
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Shetland Sheepdog5/5
Neapolitan Mastiff3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Shetland Sheepdog5/5
Neapolitan Mastiff3/5
Good with Strangers
Shetland Sheepdog2/5
Neapolitan Mastiff3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Shetland Sheepdog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Von Willebrand's Disease: Blood clotting
Collie Eye Anomaly: Vision problems
Thyroid Issues: Hormone imbalances
MDR1 Gene: Medicine sensitivity
Progressive Retinal Atrophy: Vision loss
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
Shetland Sheepdog
Pros
Highly intelligent
Excellent family dog
Low maintenance cost
Good with children
Cons
Excessive barking tendency
Heavy shedding
Can be shy with strangers
Requires extensive grooming
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
Shetland Sheepdog Fun Fact
Shelties were once called 'Toonie Dogs' because they were used on small farms called 'toons' in Shetland.
Neapolitan Mastiff Fun Fact
Ancient Roman coins have been found depicting dogs remarkably similar to modern Neapolitan Mastiffs.
Heritage & Purpose
Shetland Sheepdog
Origin:
Developed in the Shetland Islands during the 1800s, these dogs were bred to herd sheep and small livestock across rugged terrain while being compact enough to maintain on limited resources.
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
Shetland Sheepdog
Regular grooming sessions needed for double coat maintenance. Requires early socialization to prevent shyness. Tendency to bark needs early training attention.
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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