Neapolitan Mastiff vs German Shepherd
Discover the differences between Neapolitan Mastiff and German Shepherd to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
Neapolitan Mastiff
Massive yet gentle, this loyal guardian forms deep bonds with family members. Famous for its loose, wrinkled skin and calm, protective temperament.
German Shepherd
Confident, loyal, and highly intelligent, this breed thrives as both a devoted family companion and a reliable working partner. Always alert and eager to learn, it adapts to many roles with ease.
Quick comparison
Large
60–70 kg
Short, dense
7–9 years
50–60 kg
Low activity needs
Large
30–40 kg
Double coat, dense undercoat
9–13 years
22–32 kg
High energy
Personality & behavior
Compare the personality traits and behavioral characteristics of both breeds.
Neapolitan Mastiff
Aloof with strangers, affectionate with family
Learns basic commands, can be stubborn
Calm, prefers lounging over activity
Rarely initiates play, gentle when playing
Struggles with new environments and changes
German Shepherd
Warm with family, reserved with strangers
Quick learner, highly trainable and alert
Needs regular activity and vigorous exercise
Enjoys games, interactive and engaging
Adjusts well to new situations and environments
Care needs
Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements
Neapolitan Mastiff
Hip dysplasia, cherry eye
German Shepherd
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Neapolitan Mastiff
Challenging for beginners
Needs experienced handling and consistent training
Not apartment friendly
Large size and noise may disturb neighbors in close quarters
Low activity needs
Prefers relaxed environments over highly active households
Supervision needed
Protective but size and strength can overwhelm young children
Needs careful introductions
May show dominance or aggression toward other pets
Not suitable
Dislikes being alone and may develop separation anxiety
German Shepherd
Challenging for beginners
Needs experienced, consistent training and socialization
Not ideal
Needs space and frequent exercise to prevent boredom
Perfect fit
Thrives with active owners who can provide daily physical and mental challenges
Highly suitable
Loyal and protective, can be gentle and patient with proper socialization
Usually compatible
Can get along with other pets if raised together and well socialized
Prone to anxiety
Dislikes being left alone for long periods and may develop behavioral issues
Breed strengths
What each breed excels at and their best qualities
Neapolitan Mastiff
- Loyal family protector
- Strong guarding instincts
- Calm and steady temperament
- Tolerant with children when socialized
- Minimal grooming needs despite loose skin
German Shepherd
- Highly intelligent and quick to learn tasks
- Strong loyalty to family members
- Excellent working and service dog abilities
- Protective instincts make them good guardians
- Adaptable to various training activities
Challenges & considerations
Potential challenges and considerations for each breed
Neapolitan Mastiff
- Prone to drooling and slobbering
- Requires early and consistent socialization
- Can be stubborn and independent-minded
- Needs ample space due to large size
- Susceptible to joint and skin health issues
German Shepherd
- Prone to hip and elbow dysplasia
- High exercise needs require daily activity
- Can develop separation anxiety if left alone
- May be wary of strangers without socialization
- Heavy seasonal shedding requires frequent grooming
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