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To see the pedigree, kindly download the pdf attached herewith. </i Origin: Italy Breed purpose: this dog was bred to be used both as a fighting dog in battles and in the ancient arenas.   Height: bitch 60-70cm. , dog 65-75cm. ; Weight: both - 74kg, though some of the larger males can weigh up to 90kg! ; lifespan: 9-10 years Exercise needs: care must be taken with puppies and young dogs that they do not run around too much and absolutely no jumping, so as to avoid bone and joint problems as an adult dog. Adults need at least two long walks a day.  Common ailments: as with many of the giant dogs, this dog is prone to hip dysplasia and other bone and joint problems. Young dogs may suffer from a condition called ‘pano-ostiosis' which is akin to growing pains. Another common ailment is a condition called ‘cherry eye' which occurs when the eye tissue protrudes and becomes inflamed. Minor surgery corrects the condition.  Physical description: the overall appearance of this dog is formidable. This dog is seriously powerful and muscular. Their distinctive feature is not just the size but the wrinkled skin that hangs in long folds. The head is massive and the face and neck are wrinkled. The skull is broad and this dog has a large muzzle. Traditionally the ears were cropped and the tail docked. This dog's body is huge, rectangular in shape and has wrinkled folds of skin. The legs are strong and powerful. The coat is dense and smooth.  neapolitan mastiff is reputed to be the fiercest of guard dogs.