Neapolitan Mastiff vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison

Neapolitan Mastiff vs Akbash Dog - Breed ComparisonAkbash Dog is originated from Turkey but Neapolitan Mastiff is originated from Italy. Akbash Dog may grow 14 cm / 6 inches higher than Neapolitan Mastiff. Akbash Dog may weigh 14 kg / 30 pounds lesser than Neapolitan Mastiff. Both Akbash Dog and Neapolitan Mastiff has almost same life span. Akbash Dog may have less litter size than Neapolitan Mastiff. Both Akbash Dog and Neapolitan Mastiff requires Moderate Maintenance.

Basic Information

Group:
Herding dogs
Molosser dogs
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Turkey
Italy
Height Male:
74 - 84 cm
29 - 34 inches
60 - 70 cm
23 - 28 inches
Height Female:
71 - 79 cm
27 - 32 inches
50 - 60 cm
19 - 24 inches
Weight Male:
50 - 65 kg
110 - 144 pounds
61 - 79 kg
134 - 175 pounds
Weight Female:
40 - 55 kg
88 - 122 pounds
51 - 69 kg
112 - 153 pounds
Life Span:
10 - 11 Years
7 - 9 Years
Litter Size:
8 - 9
6 - 12
Size:
Large
Giant
Other Names:
Can'e presa • Italian Mastiff • Italian Molosso • Mastino • Mastino - Mastini plural • Mastino Napoletano • Neo
Colors Available:
Brindle, White, Red Fawn, Liver, White & Biscuit and Blue Fawn
black, mahogany and tawny, blue, chocolate, gray
Coat:
Dense, Medium and Short, Harsh and Rough
straight, dense, short
Shedding:
Moderate
Moderate
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Courageous, Independent, Intelligent, Loyal
Alert, Courageous, Independent, Intelligent, Loyal, Protective, Quiet, Stubborn, Territorial
Grooming:
Moderate Maintenance
Moderate Maintenance
Trainability:
Moderate
Moderate
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
No
New Owners Friendly:
No
No

History

akbash dogAkbash breed became popular in the 1970s. Around that period, Akbash was introduced to North America. There is archeological evidence that this breed was popular even in the 750-300 BC. Of course, it wasn’t the exact dog as we know it today, but there are many similarities between Akbash and dog from the ancient period. This breed was developed in Turkey to be a guardian dog. They were perfect flock guardians.

neapolitan mastiffAn ancient breed, the Neapolitan Mastiffs are massive dogs with a history of protecting their family and their property. The breed has deep rooted protective instincts and they are very frightening in appearance. The Neapolitan is of the Molosser group of dogs, all of whom probably came from the same line. It is known that all the mastiffs in Europe are descendants of the Tibetan Mastiff. The Tibetan Mastiff is considered the most ancient of all canines.

The Asian Mastiffs came from India to Greece around 300 BC with Alexander the Great. Then the breed was brought to the Romans by the Greeks and then introduced them in their circus in fights. Another possibility is that around 500 BC the mastiffs came to Britain from the Phoenicians. Either way the Roman Molossus is the ancestor of the Neapolitan Mastiff.

The Romans crossed the breed with the English Mastiff around 55 BC and developed a premiere war dog that was called a Mastini.

The breed eventually became extinct in Europe with the exception of Campania. The breed was recognized in 1946 with the standard accepted in 1949. However, it is believed that the Neapolitan Mastiff has been continuously present in Campania for over two thousand years. The breed was initially developed as war dogs and for the Roman coliseum spectacles.

In 1946 Dr. Piero Scanziani established a program to breed them in Italy. He wrote the breed standard in 1949.

Today the Neo is a farm dog, an army dog, a police dog and a guard dog. They were shown in Italy for the first time in 1946 but only in 2004 was the breed recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC). It was 1973 when the Neapolitan Mastiff Club of America was born and 1996 when the standard was approved by the AKC. They are still a rare breed in the United States.

Description

akbash dog puppy - descriptionWeight of the Akbash dog variates from 41-64kg, while their height is 71-78cm. Female Akbash is smaller than a male Akbash, but not for much. A lifespan of an average Akbash dog is 10-11 years, but if they have cared properly, they tend to live longer. Litter Size of Akbash is 8-9 puppies. Another Name for Akbash is Akbas Coban Kopegi, Coban Kopegi.

neapolitan mastiff puppy - descriptionThe Neapolitan Mastiff is a massive dog , so powerful and very intimidating in his looks. With an incredibly large head and hanging folds and wrinkles, the Neo is an impressive animal. His inner nobility and dignity is evident in his stance and the way he holds himself. He is relaxed, calm, quiet yet imposing none the less. His coat is dark whether black, tawny, gray or mahogany. He is muscular beyond imagination. The Neo is 10-15% longer than he is tall.

On his massive head his eyes are deep set and covered by his eye lids that droop. His eyes are blue as puppies then dark and coordinated with his coat. and his nose is large and the color of his coat. Ears are natural or can be cropped, and they carry their tail straight and curving back. The Neo has round paws and arched toes.

Characteristics

akbash dog dog - characteristicsHave in mind that Akbash is a large and powerful dog. They are bred through generations to be guardians and suspicious. They are very independent because they tend to make their own decisions while guarding flocks. They will require adequate socialization, but overall, they are very intelligent and they tend to learn quickly. It requires time and patience, but are great pets for right owners. Akbash has a white to biscuit color coat. They also have a dark pigment around nose, eyes, and mouth. Akbash is very quick and agile dog, which might be surprised because of its size.

It is important to train them since the puppyhood. They are working dogs and they will be happy when they have tasks during training. Due to their independence, consistent and steady training is important. An old-fashioned way of training that includes punishment is not recommendable. Positive training with awards is the best way to train your Akbash dog. They do not require a lot of daily exercises. Daily walks would do more than enough. Younger dogs need more exercise than more mature ones. They can be very good for other animals, but they have to be socialized with them. It is the best way to socialize your dog when it is still a puppy.

Children friendliness

neapolitan mastiff dog - characteristicsOlder children in their family. No toddlers or strangers.

Special talents

Protective yet quiet, calm, relaxed

Adaptability

No they won’t adapt well to apartment living or to strangers.

Learning ability

They are intelligent and trainable but must be socialized and know the human is the alpha or they will take over.

Health Problems

akbash dog puppies - health problemsGenerally, Akbash is a very healthy breed. They do not have any major health issues. As many large breeds, they can develop hip dysplasia and OCD. But with proper care, regular vet checks, and choosing the right puppy, you won’t be having any problems.

neapolitan mastiff puppies - health problemsThe Neapolitan Mastiff is prone to many of the same issues as any massive, extra large breed. The most common of these is Cherry Eye.

Other issues include:

  • Hypothyroidism – treated with medication
  • Elbow Dysplasia – can cause lameness or arthritis
  • Hip Dysplasia – can cause lameness or arthritis
  • Cardiomyopathy – heart issues
  • Bloat or Gastric Dilation Volvulus – can be fatal, needs immediate attention
  • Sensitivity to Anesthetics

Caring The Pet

Feeding the Akbash

akbash dog dogs - caringAkbash dog is very easy to care. They can stay fit on a minimum amount of food. 2-2.5 cups divided into two meals would be ideal for your dog. They require meat, so giving them dry industrial food can be a solid substitute. Vegetables and oil can also be included in meals. It will keep your dog healthy and happy.

Feeding the Akbash

Puppies have to eat more meals per day. It is the best to give your puppy Akbash 3-5 meals per day. Those meals should be divided into smaller portions. It is recommended to give your puppy all necessary vitamins and minerals that include calcium for stronger bones. It will improve the overall health of your dog, and it will help it develop into a healthy adult dog.

Grooming the Akbash

Akbash will request some grooming, but they are not very difficult to groom. They require regular grooming. Every few days will be enough, except when they are shedding. Akbash will need daily grooming when shed. You can bath your pet occasionally, but not very often. Bathing, if necessary, should be done only 5-6 times a year. There is no need for more.

Feeding the puppy

neapolitan mastiff dogs - caringNeapolitans grow fast and so don’t overfeed when they are young. Lower protein and higher fat content.

Feeding the adult

Don’t overfeed the adult as they can become obese.

Games and Exercises

This big hearty breed needs exercise but not too much. They overheat easily. The puppy will push himself, so you have to make sure he doesn’t over do it. No tug of war games. They need a long walk twice every day.

Comparison with other breeds

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  37. Akbash Dog vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  38. Akbash Dog vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  39. Akbash Dog vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  40. Akbash Dog vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  41. Akbash Dog vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  42. Akbash Dog vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  43. Akbash Dog vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  44. Akbash Dog vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  45. Akbash Dog vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  46. Akita vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  47. Africanis vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  48. Askal vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  49. Atlas Terrier vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
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