Rottweiler vs Neapolitan Mastiff

A well-trained Rottweiler is a picture of calm confidence, but they are also a lot of dog. They’re extremely active, strong and don’t relax easily. Unlike other dogs such as Golden Retrievers, who joyously welcome guests with wagging tails, Rottweilers are more measured in their approach, preferring to hang back and assess the situation.

However, many people underestimate just how emotionally needy this breed is. They’re obsessed with their people and want to be around them all the time. To their beloved family, they’re both guardian and playmate, always watching you, always ready to leap into action, which sometimes means trying to lovingly squeeze their enormous frame onto your lap.

But make no mistake, this highly intelligent and protective dog requires a special kind of family—one that’s confident, has experience handling such protective animals, and ideally doesn’t have any other pets, as they typically won’t bond with other dogs or cats.

Bred for their guarding abilities, Rottweilers excel in this role and are equipped with a deep growl that alerts their family to potential threats, and the size and strength to protect if needed. (They also make an endearing “rumble” sound when they are happy and content, particularly during belly rubs.)

Building a strong foundation in obedience training and socialization can significantly impact a Rottweiler’s temperament. Because of their protective instincts, Rottweilers have a higher-than-average tendency to bite. To ensure they’re well-adjusted members of society, consistent training should begin early, in puppyhood.

Neapolitan Mastiff dogs (aka Mastinos or Neos) love their families. Despite their extra-large size, you may find your gentle giant trying to snuggle up on your lap! And these lumbering pups do well as playmates with older children. Even though they’re not as active as a Border Collie, they may knock over a toddler accidentally due to their sheer size.

Neos are wary of newcomers, but they are rarely aggressive unless they feel their family is threatened. (They have a powerful bite force when needed.) But their massive size and deep, throaty bark are usually enough to keep unwanted visitors at bay. Early socialization is important to help teach them the difference between friends and foes.

Neos may be aggressive with other dogs, so it’s best when they’re the only dog in the home. They may do OK with a family cat if raised with them through puppyhood, but some Neos will chase cats.

Mastino puppies are energetic and playful. As adults, they’re the ultimate couch potatoes and live to lounge near their people. Because these are large-breed dogs, they do better with older children. Even though these pups are less active than some, they still may knock over a toddler with their sheer size.