Neapolitan Mastiff vs Golden Retriever
Discover the differences between Neapolitan Mastiff and Golden Retriever 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.
Golden Retriever
A loving, intelligent breed with an easygoing nature and playful spirit. Known for loyalty and adaptability, making them exceptional companions for families of all kinds.
Quick comparison
Large
60–70 kg
Short, dense
7–9 years
50–60 kg
Low activity needs
Large
29–34 kg
Double coat, water-repellent
10–12 years
25–29 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
Golden Retriever
Very sociable, enjoys people and other dogs
Quick to learn commands and routines
Needs regular activity and mental stimulation
Loves games and interactive activities
Adjusts well to various living environments
Care needs
Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements
Neapolitan Mastiff
Hip dysplasia, cherry eye
Golden Retriever
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
Golden Retriever
Great choice
Friendly, trainable nature makes them easy for new owners to manage
Needs space
Large size and high energy can be challenging in small apartments
Highly suitable
Enjoys regular exercise and outdoor activities with active people
Perfect fit
Gentle temperament and patience make them excellent with young children
Very friendly
Generally sociable and gets along well with other pets
Prone to anxiety
Dislikes being left alone for extended periods and may develop separation 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
Golden Retriever
- Friendly with children and other pets
- Highly trainable and eager to please
- Consistent, gentle temperament in most settings
- Reliable as therapy and assistance dogs
- Strong retrieving and swimming abilities
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
Golden Retriever
- Prone to obesity without portion control
- High shedding year-round requires regular grooming
- Needs ample daily exercise to prevent boredom
- Can develop separation anxiety when left alone
- Susceptible to certain genetic health conditions
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