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The role of the Neapolitan is that of a guardian. This is what he was bred for and he does his job well. We have since broadened the horizons for this majestic breed opening up new and different challenges for our Mastini. Neapolitans in obedience work seem to do well in the class situation but in formal obedience trials they are not the quick responding dog that the Shepherds, Aussies, Goldens or Shelties are. They are generally slow moving and contemplating; almost mulling over the command in their mind before acting on it. Obedience judges are just starting to recognize this and more mastiff dogs are receiving higher obedience scores. The Neapolitan is not the best selection of a dog for athletic ability and endurance. Yes there are some that excel but they are the exceptions. Running alongside a bike and jogging is not the Neapolitan’s forte. They are heavy for their height and their stamina is not the greatest, they fatigue and overheat easily. Most Neapolitan Mastiffs love to swim and this is a good form of exercise for them which is gentle on their joints and limbs. Puppies should never be heavily exercised. This will result in damage to the joints and ligaments which will cause skeletal damage as he grows. Short walks for a small puppy are fine and stairclimbing should be limited. The Neapolitan has a very high tolerance for pain and because of this injuries can go unnoticed and untreated.
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