• Hungarian Language
  • English Language

Neapolitan Shepherd Information & Dog Breed Facts

Collection of all the general dog breed info about Neapolitan Shepherd so you can get to know the breed more.

Group Designer Dogs
Popularity Rank1705
Reviews0
User Ratings
Compare the Neapolitan Shepherd With Other Dogs
Select at least one dog breed to make the comparsion.
 
 
Neapolitan Shepherd dog profile picture
OriginGermany flagGermany Italy flagItaly
Breed Type
What type of dog breed is it?
Cross Breed Neapolitan Mastiff and German Shepherd mix

Neapolitan Shepherd Size and Weight

Size
Is a Neapolitan Shepherd small, medium or large dog?

How big do Neapolitan Shepherd get?

What is the average size of a Neapolitan Shepherd?

LargeGiant
Weight
How much does the Neapolitan Shepherd weigh? How much should a Neapolitan Shepherd weight? What is the normal weight of a Neapolitan Shepherd? How much does a full-grown Neapolitan Shepherd weight?
90-120 pounds (41-54 kg)
Average Weight
What is the average weight of a Neapolitan Shepherd?
105 pounds (47.5 kg)
Height
How tall is the Neapolitan Shepherd? Neapolitan Shepherd height:
Male: 26-30 inches (65-75 cm), Female: 24-28 inches (60-70 cm)
Average Height
What is the average height of a Neapolitan Shepherd?
Male: 28 inches (70 cm), Female: 26 inches (65 cm)

Neapolitan Shepherd Price and Availability

Price
How much does the Neapolitan Shepherd puppy cost? What is the price range of this puppy? What is the average price of a Neapolitan Shepherd in the United States? How much money is a Neapolitan Shepherd?

Where to buy a Neapolitan Shepherd with a good pedigree?

$800-$2000
If you choose to purchase the Neapolitan Shepherd, you should know that the mentioned amount of money is an average of the collected data from breeders’ sites and puppy finder places. If you have a Neapolitan Shepherd for sale, please advertise it on a reliable website to make sure the Neapolitan Shepherd gets to a happy place.
Availability
How easy is it to get a Neapolitan Shepherd? How many Neapolitan Shepherd are there in the world?
Very frequent: The Neapolitan Shepherd is quite easy to get. There is a risk of overbreeding, as it is an extremely popular breed.

Inbreeding is common because of its popularity. A new study suggests that inbreeding contributes to the incidence of disease and health problems.

So be careful, buy from a trustworthy place or kennel and seek the help of an experienced person, a professional, to make the right decision.

Neapolitan Shepherd Trainability and Intelligence

Intelligent Rank
How smart is the Neapolitan Shepherd? Is the Neapolitan Shepherd breed dumb or smart?
Smart: The Neapolitan Shepherd dogs have great intelligence. They understand and memorize new commands in 15-25 repetitions.

The Neapolitan Shepherd is among the smartest dogs in the intelligence ranking.

Trainability
Are Neapolitan Shepherd dogs easy to train? Do they go well on dog training? How hard is it to train a Neapolitan Shepherd?
Neapolitan Shepherd dogs are quite easy to train. Sometimes they can be challenging, but if you're consistent in teaching new commands they will obey for sure.
Watchdog Ability
Is Neapolitan Shepherd good as a watchdog? Are they alert at night?
Neapolitan Shepherd dogs are one of the best watchdogs. Their main job is to observe and they're very consistent in their effort. The best vocal cords and sense of hearing belong to them. Usually, they're very territorial and protective about their property, so the Neapolitan Shepherd dogs will alert you if they sense something different.
Guarding Behavior / Territorial
Do Neapolitan Shepherd dogs have aggressive behavior to protect their home/house/territory? Do they have guarding instincts?
Neapolitan Shepherd dogs are extremely protective guard dogs. This breed doesn't hesitate to protect its territory so the Neapolitan Shepherd can be a good choice if you want an excellent guard dog. Keep calm and the Neapolitan Shepherd will take care of unwanted people or animals.

Neapolitan Shepherd Personality and Temperament

Temperament
What kind of personality does the Neapolitan Shepherd have? What characteristics or traits does the breed have?
CuriousStubbornProtectiveAlertCourageousIntelligentConfidentObedientDominantLoyalTrainableFearlessWatchful
Sensitivity Level
How sensitive are they? Neapolitan Shepherd sensitivity:
Sensitive: Neapolitan Shepherd dogs don't like an irregular daily routine, noisy household, and frequent guest visits.

This breed's emotional level reflects their owner's feelings and they don't handle punishments well.

Affection Level
How affectionate are they? Is a Neapolitan Shepherd a good family dog?
Average to High: Neapolitan Shepherd dogs are highly affectionate dogs. They like being involved in the family's life. This breed isn't considered an aloof dog.
Social Needs
How much social interaction does the Neapolitan Shepherd need? Neapolitan Shepherd social needs:
Neapolitan Shepherd dogs need for social interaction is average. This breed likes being around people or other animals, but they don't mind being left alone for a few hours either.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
How likely is the Neapolitan Shepherd to run away? Does this breed explore or wander a lot? Does Neapolitan Shepherd roam?
Neapolitan Shepherd dogs are not the biggest explorers. They have low wanderlust potential. Low chance of escaping from home with this breed.
Prey Drive
Do this canine have a strong prey drive? Does Neapolitan Shepherd have high prey drive?
Neapolitan Shepherd dogs have an average prey drive, which means that they don't have a high impulse to chase and catch something like a cat or any other small aminals, but it might happen. Training can help to achieve good behavior.

Neapolitan Shepherd Activity and Playfulness

Playfulness
How playful is this breed?
Average: Neapolitan Shepherds, like any other dog breed, like playing. Sometimes they bark in excitement for playing, but they are not the most playful dog breed.
Barking
Do Neapolitan Shepherd dogs bark a lot? Are they barkers/noisy? Why does my Neapolitan Shepherd bark?
Low to Average: The Neapolitan Shepherd rarely barks. This breed could be a good choice if you're looking for a quiet breed. They don't bark unless there is a good reason.

Top reasons for barking: protection, alarm, fear, boredom, attention-seeking, greeting, separation anxiety, compulsive barking.

Apartment Friendly
Is Neapolitan Shepherd good as an apartment dog? Can they live in a flat? Can you have a Neapolitan Shepherd in an apartment?
It is not the best choice if you want to keep them indoors, however, with careful exercise and several walks a day, they will tolerate the indoor environment, so it is possible to keep Neapolitan Shepherd indoors.

Neapolitan Shepherd Adaptability and Independence

Adaptability
Are they adaptable and easy-going?
Neapolitan Shepherd dogs adapt well to lifestyle changes and different living environments. They don't mind moving from one place to another with their owner.
Tolerates Being Left Alone
How long can a Neapolitan Shepherd be left alone? How long can you leave a Neapolitan Shepherd alone?
Just like every puppy, they are prone to panic, cry, bark, whine when they left alone by their owner. With proper socialization and quality time with the dog can solve this problem.

Neapolitan Shepherd Bite Characteristics

Bite Force PSI
Does the Neapolitan Shepherd has a hard bite? What is the bite force of a Neapolitan Shepherd? How much bite force does a Neapolitan Shepherd have? How strong is a Neapolitan Shepherd bite?

Between 200 and 400 PSI

Neapolitan Shepherd bite force: Ordinary. Bite force Neapolitan Shepherd measurements typically fall within the range of 200 to 400 PSI. The bite force of a Neapolitan Shepherd is considered ordinary when compared to other dog breeds, but it is still quite powerful. This Neapolitan Shepherd bite force PSI can cause bite wounds. Neapolitan Shepherd bite PSI is not something that should be feared if the dog is well-trained and managed. To avoid any issues, it's essential to learn how to train a Neapolitan Shepherd puppy not to bite from an early age.

The Neapolitan Shepherd, and many others, have a fearsome presence because they have significant jaw strength, so it is important not to anger the dog and have it around strangers until it is fully trained.

However, they are usually quite calm and good companions, they work well in families and are easy to care for.

In conclusion, while the Neapolitan Shepherd bite force is certainly an interesting aspect of the breed, it is important not to let it overshadow the many other reasons why these dogs are so loved and respected. With proper training and socialization, a Neapolitan Shepherd can be a loyal and protective companion for your family.

Biting Potential
Do Neapolitan Shepherd bite humans? How likely are you to get bitten from the Neapolitan Shepherd? What are the odds of getting bitten by a Neapolitan Shepherd? Why do dog bites happen?

Low 🔽

The Neapolitan Shepherd has a low chance of biting somebody. Top reasons for dog bite: protection, pain, excitement, herding instinct, being provoked. (Data based on the available online bite statistics.)
Mouthiness
How much mouthing/nipping/play biting does the Neapolitan Shepherd do?
Neapolitan Shepherd dogs have a higher than average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people. It's a common habit during puppyhood, not aggressive behavior. These "bites" don't hurt, but Neapolitan Shepherd dogs need to be taught a good attitude.

Neapolitan Shepherd Health and Lifespan

Health Issues
Is it a healthy or unhealthy breed? Do Neapolitan Shepherd dogs have health problems or genetic diseases?
Very healthy dog breed. The Neapolitan Shepherd rarely meets with the veterinarian.
Health Problems
What genetic/health problems does the Neapolitan Shepherd breed have? What are the health issues and concerns of the Neapolitan Shepherd breed? Most common health risks of Neapolitan Shepherd:
Cataracts Hip Dysplasia AllergiesCancerProgressive retinal atrophy (PRA)Von Willebrand's DiseaseBloatEpilepsyBlindnessCherry EyeElbow DysplasiaDiabetesHeart DiseaseRetinal DysplasiaDemodectic MangeDegenerative MyelopathyWobbler's SyndromePanosteitisHemophilia BMegaesophagusCushing's SyndromeLens LuxationExocrine Pancreatic InsufficiencyChronic DiarrheaCruciate Ligament RuptureDigestive ProblemsHemophilia AHypertrophic OsteodystrophyLupusMyasthenia GravisNail Bed DiseaseOsteochondrosisPannusParalysisPerianal FistulaSeborrheaVitiligo
Veterinarian Visits
How often does the Neapolitan Shepherd breed need to go to the vet? How often should you take your dog to the vet? How often should the Neapolitan Shepherd see the vet?
Rare
The Neapolitan Shepherd should have a complete physical check-up at least every 12-18 months (but preferably once per year). If your dog shows any symptoms, call your veterinarian.
Life Expectancy
How long do Neapolitan Shepherd dogs live? How old can a Neapolitan Shepherd be? What is the age limit of the Neapolitan Shepherd? How many years can the oldest Neapolitan Shepherd live?

What is the average life expectancy / lifespan of a Neapolitan Shepherd?

How long is the lifespan of a Neapolitan Shepherd?

9-13 years
The average lifespan of Neapolitan Shepherd: 11 years
Weather and Climate
Which weather condition is preferred by this dog? Can they tolerate hot or cold weather and climate?
Tolerates warm and cold weather
Dogs that tolerate hot and cold weather are typically those that have a double coat of fur. Dogs with a double coat of fur have a layer of fur that insulates their skin and helps protect them from the cold and the heat.

Neapolitan Shepherd Energy and Activity

Energy Level
How much energy does the Neapolitan Shepherd have? What is the activity level of the Neapolitan Shepherd?
Neapolitan Shepherd dogs have a higher energy level than other dog breeds. If you want a dog for snuggling on the couch, this breed isn't the perfect choice for you.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
How much exercise does a Neapolitan Shepherd need? How much exercise do Neapolitan Shepherd dogs require per day?

Do Neapolitan Shepherd dogs need a lot of exercises?

Neapolitan Shepherd dogs have an average exercise need. This breed is satisfied with short walks every weekday and a long ones on weekends.
Sleeping Need
How much sleep does the Neapolitan Shepherd breed need?
Neapolitan Shepherd dogs are quite energetic dogs and they don't spend too much time with sleeping. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.

Neapolitan Shepherd Diet and Weight Management

Average daily food consumption
How much food does a Neapolitan Shepherd need? What dog products should I buy? How much food does a Neapolitan Shepherd breed eat per day? What is good dog food for Neapolitan Shepherd? How much food should I feed my Neapolitan Shepherd?
5 to 6 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.
Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity
How easy to gain weight for this dog? Neapolitan Shepherd risk for obesity:
Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the Neapolitan Shepherd's weight, he can easily gain weight. More than one daily walk should be on schedule. To make your dog happy and fit, feed him with quality dry dog food and live an active life together. Try to find the happy medium between exercise and feeding.

If you notice any weight gain, consult your veterinarian and make a diet plan. Reduce unhealthy food and snacks, and measure the Neapolitan Shepherd weight regularly.

Neapolitan Shepherd Allergies and Grooming

Coat / Hair Types
What type of coat does the Neapolitan Shepherd have? What does this canine coat/fur look like?
DenseFuzzy
Colors
What color is the breed's coat? What color are proper Neapolitan Shepherd coats?
BlackTan Red Blue SilverTawnyMahogany
Grooming
How to groom the Neapolitan Shepherd and how often? How often should I take my Neapolitan Shepherd to the groomer?
Average: The Neapolitan Shepherd requires average grooming effort. Cutting the dog's hair by a professional groomer isn't essential.

Brushing the dog's coat is useful to reduce shedding. Ears and eyes should be cleaned regularly to avoid infections.

Don't skip the seasonal flea treatment too. Dog nail trimming and dog bath can be helpful sometimes.

Check the local pet store for dog grooming supplies and find the best dog shampoo to keep its coat healthy and give your dog a pleasant experience of a dog bath.

If you don't have the time, skill, or money to take care of your Neapolitan Shepherd, search for a dog groomer or clipping service in your area and book an appointment.

Maybe you're lucky to have a dog boarding service that includes grooming or walk-in dog bath places nearby.

Shedding Level
How much do Neapolitan Shepherd dogs shed? How to control, reduce and prevent the shedding of the Neapolitan Shepherd? Do Neapolitan Shepherd dogs shed a lot?
Neapolitan Shepherd dogs shed above average. It's a natural process of the hair growth cycle. The amount and frequency of hair loss mostly depend on their health status and breed type. If you don't like vacuum cleaning, you might have to reconsider your choice of having a puppy from the Neapolitan Shepherd breed.
Bath Time / Bathing Frequency
How often does the Neapolitan Shepherd need a bath? How often should you give a Neapolitan Shepherd a bath? Can I bathe my Neapolitan Shepherd every day?
8-12 weeks
Very rarely. Bathing your dog is beneficial to them in more ways than just one. It’s also a good time to look for unusual scratches, bumps, fleas, and other irregularities. When their hair is wet and flat against their body, these details are more visible.

For example, short-haired dog breeds can go a very long time in between baths. These short-haired breeds shed regularly and that shedding works to naturally remove excess dirt and oil. So unless your weenie dog got into the garbage can, you can probably hold off on a bath for a while.

Hypoallergenic
Is the Neapolitan Shepherd breed hypoallergenic?
No
Neapolitan Shepherd dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions. Some dog breeds are even considered to higher possibility of an allergic response. Coat type isn't necessarily relevant, because most people are allergic to dander (flakes on the dog's skin) or saliva, not actually to dog hair.
Stinkiness
How stinky is this dog? Why does it smell bad and how to get rid of the smell?

High 🔼

The Neapolitan Shepherd has a high chance of bad smell. Top reasons for dog stinkiness: infection of bad tooth/ear/skin folds, gas attacks.
Drooling Tendency
Does the Neapolitan Shepherd drool?
The Neapolitan Shepherd is an average drooler. Drooling is the unintentional saliva flowing outside of the mouth. It can be completely normal or a sign of a health problem.

If you notice any change in your dog's drooling habit, you should contact a vet as soon as possible.

Neapolitan Shepherd Good With

Pet Friendly
Are they pet-friendly dogs? How well do Neapolitan Shepherd dogs get along with other pets? Are Neapolitan Shepherd dogs good with pets? What is this canine temperament with other pets?
Neapolitan Shepherd dogs are generally with other pets.
Stranger Friendly
Are they aggressive or friendly towards/with strangers? Neapolitan Shepherd temperament with other people:
Neapolitan Shepherd dogs are average friendly towards strangers.
Child Friendly
Are Neapolitan Shepherd dogs kid-friendly? Are they good with young children? Neapolitan Shepherd temperament with children:
Neapolitan Shepherd dogs are kid-friendly dogs. This breed is a good choice if you have children.
Cat Friendly
How well do Neapolitan Shepherd dogs get along with cats? Are they good with kittens? What is this fido's temperament with cats? Can they be good with cats? Can the Neapolitan Shepherd breed live with a cat?
Neapolitan Shepherd dogs are average friendly towards cats.
Dog Friendly
Is Neapolitan Shepherd good with other dogs? Are they dog-friendly dogs? How well do Neapolitan Shepherd dogs get along with other dogs?
Neapolitan Shepherd dogs are not the most dog-friendly dogs. If you want more dogs in your family or you'd like to join dog meetups, the Neapolitan Shepherd is not a good choice.
Good For First Time Owners
Is Neapolitan Shepherd breed good for first-time owners? Do they make a good dog for novice owners? Is Neapolitan Shepherd breed suitable for first-time owners?
Yes
Neapolitan Shepherd dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Office Friendly
Are Neapolitan Shepherd dogs good office canines? Do Neapolitan Shepherd dogs make good office-friendly pets? Can they be office dogs?
No
Neapolitan Shepherd is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly
Are they senior citizens friendly dogs? How well do Neapolitan Shepherd dogs get along with the elderly people? What is the Neapolitan Shepherd temperament with senior people? Are Neapolitan Shepherd dogs good for elderly owners?
Neapolitan Shepherds are usually recommended for elderly people.

Neapolitan Shepherd As a Working Dog

Service Dog
Are they good as service dogs? Can Neapolitan Shepherd be a guide dog? Are they used as seeing-eye dogs?

Yes

This breed makes good as a service dog. A service dog is a term used in the USA to refer to any type of assistance dog specifically trained to help people who have disabilities, such as visual impairment, hearing impairments, mental disorders, seizures, mobility impairment, and diabetes. Service dogs are protected under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).

Neapolitan Shepherd breed is a good choice for service purposes.

Therapy Dog
Are they good as therapy dogs? Can Neapolitan Shepherd be a therapy dog? Are they good anxiety dogs? Can a Neapolitan Shepherd be an emotional support animal?

Yes

This breed makes a perfect therapy dog. A therapy dog is a dog that might be trained to provide affection, comfort, and love to people in hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, hospices, disaster areas, and people with anxiety disorders or autism.

Neapolitan Shepherd breed is a good choice for therapeutic purposes.

Detection Dog or Sniffer Dog
Are they good as detection dogs? Can Neapolitan Shepherd be a sniffer dog?

Yes

After proper training, they can excel at this kind of work. A detection dog or sniffer dog is a dog that is trained to use its senses (mostly its smell) to detect substances such as explosives, illegal drugs, wildlife scat, currency, blood, and contraband electronics such as illicit mobile phones.

Neapolitan Shepherd breed is a good choice for detection purposes.

Search and Rescue Dog (SAR)
Are they good as SAR dogs? Can Neapolitan Shepherd be a search and rescue dog?

Yes

This breed would make an excellent search and rescue dog. The use of dogs in search and rescue (SAR) is a valuable component in wilderness tracking, natural disasters, mass casualty events, and in locating missing people.

The Neapolitan Shepherd breed is a good choice for SAR purposes.

Boat and Sailor Dog
Are they good as boat dogs? Can Neapolitan Shepherd be a boat dog?

Not really

Neapolitan Shepherd breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.

Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages. They were typically used for three purposes: as a working dog, a watchdog, and as a companion. A boat dog is a term used to describe a type of dog that was traditionally bred and used as a working dog on boats.

Cart Pulling or Drafting Dog
Are they good as cart pulling dogs? Can Neapolitan Shepherd be a drafting dog?

Yes

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. Dogs bred for this work have strong builds and qualities that are needed, strength and determination.

Neapolitan Shepherd breed is a good choice for drafting purposes.

Fighting Dog / Military Dog
Where Neapolitan Shepherd dogs used as fighting / military dogs in history?

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Neapolitan Shepherd Reproducibility

Gestation Length
How long is a Neapolitan Shepherd pregnant?How long does it take to have puppies? How to tell if the Neapolitan Shepherd breed is pregnant?

60-64 days

Reproductive cycle of the female Neapolitan Shepherd: The first period called Proestrus lasts for about 9 days.

During this time the females start to attract males. You can notice by swelling vulva and bloody discharge.

The second part is the Estrus when the female is receptive for the male. It lasts for about 3 to 11 days.

The sign of the proestrus part is the soft and enlarged vulva. The discharge decreases and lightens in color.

The third part is the Diestrus. Normally, it occurs around day 14. In this period the female’s discharge changes for vivid red and coming to its end. The vulva returns to average, and she will no longer permit mating.

The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time frame between heat periods normally lasts about six months.

Litter Frequency

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy. It is very important not to buy a dog from a puppy mill, where the needs of the pups and their mothers are ignored. It's an inhumane high-volume dog breeding facility, where puppies born several times a year.
Litter Size
How many puppies can the Neapolitan Shepherd have in a litter? How many puppies can the Neapolitan Shepherd breed have for the first time? How many puppies does a Neapolitan Shepherd have? How many puppies can a Neapolitan Shepherd give birth to?
6-12 puppies

Neapolitan Shepherd Recognition

AKC Group
Is Neapolitan Shepherd recognized by the American Kennel Club?
Not recognized by the American Kennel Club.
FCI Group
Is Neapolitan Shepherd recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)?
Not recognized by FCI.

Neapolitan Shepherd Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Intelligent Rank: Smart: The Neapolitan Shepherd dogs have great intelligence.
  • Health Issues: Very healthy dog breed.
  • Watchdog Ability: Neapolitan Shepherd dogs are one of the best watchdogs.
  • Impulse to Wander or Roam: Neapolitan Shepherd dogs are not the biggest explorers.
  • Adaptability: Neapolitan Shepherd dogs adapt well to lifestyle changes and different living environments.
  • Child Friendly: Neapolitan Shepherd dogs are kid-friendly dogs.
  • Senior Citizens Friendly: Neapolitan Shepherds are usually recommended for elderly people.
  • Good For First Time Owners: Neapolitan Shepherd dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
  • Service Dog: This breed makes good as a service dog.
  • Therapy Dog: This breed makes a perfect therapy dog.
  • Detection Dog or Sniffer Dog: After proper training, they can excel at this kind of work.
  • Search and Rescue Dog (SAR): This breed would make an excellent search and rescue dog.
  • Cart Pulling or Drafting Dog: A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling.
Cons
  • Hypoallergenic: Neapolitan Shepherd dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Shedding Level: Neapolitan Shepherd dogs shed above average.
  • Stinkiness: The Neapolitan Shepherd has a high chance of bad smell.
  • Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity: Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the Neapolitan Shepherd's weight, he can easily gain weight.
  • Mouthiness: Neapolitan Shepherd dogs have a higher than average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people.
  • Dog Friendly: Neapolitan Shepherd dogs are not the most dog-friendly dogs.
  • Office Friendly: Neapolitan Shepherd is not the best dog breed for office environment.

Rate The Neapolitan Shepherd Breed

Neapolitan Shepherd Comments, Reviews and Questions