GENERAL APPEARANCE
Shoulder height: 65-75 cm (26”-29”)
Colour: Blue, brindle, black, brown, fawn or grey.
Coat: Short, dense and fine. Gait: Slow, free and bearlike.
These large massively boned members of the Mastiff family must be muscular with a majestic bearing. Their bodies are covered with a loose fitting skin. The skull is broad and two-thirds longer than the square muzzle which is covered with heavy lips. The eyes are deep set and the smallish ears are pendant. The neck is distinctive in that the dewlap from the lower jaw reaches midway down the neck. The body is long and large with a deep chest. Fore and hind quarters are moderately angulated and must be powerful. The tail is set on slightly lower than the topline and preferably docked to one third its length - it may be carried level when moving.
CHARACTERISTICS AND CARE
This member of the Mastiff family is devoted to its owners and although a loyal guard dog, should never be aggressive with people. When reared in a gentle environment, these dogs make loving and stoic pets, however they do need space in which to exercise. During the hot weather, care should be taken to see that hot spots do not develop in the wrinkled coat, but other wise, care of the coat is minimal.
HISTORY
Presumed to have originated from the molossus family of dogs and more particularly, the Tibetan Mastiff, it is believed these dogs arrived in Greece and later in southern Italy during the Roman times. It is well documented that fighting mastiffs were used by the Roman armies and in their circuses as fighting dogs. Some believed their colour made them ideal guard dogs at night, as it acted as a camouflage and made it easier for them to attack marauders without first being seen. After World War II, in Italy they were first exhibited at dogs shows, and since then have become better known around the world.