Grooming a Neapolitan Mastiff is based on mostly on regular weekly brushing. The folds and wrinkles must be kept clean and dry or sores may develop. The coat is short, dense, hard texture, with a good sheen and no fringe.

Colors varies: black, blue, all shades of gray, brown (from fawn to red). Brindling on either of the latter colors. A small star on the chest and white toes are permitted.

Grooming Procedure

Equipment needed: Hound glove, bristle brush, fine-toothed comb.

Dribbles a lot of saliva, so have a large towel on hand to mop it up.

• Brush over the coat to remove dead hairs.
• Get help to lift the dog into the bath or walk it up a bath ramp.
• Bathe in a mild-ingredient, natural shampoo.
• Rinse thoroughly.
• Dry in a cage dryer or in warm air (i.e., a warm room or outside on a warm, sunny day).
• Lightly spray the coat with conditioner to enhance the gleam.
• Check the dog’s teeth, brushing them if necessary.
• Check wrinkles and folds of the coat to ensure they are free from moisture, or they could develop eczema or sores.
• The Neapolitan Mastiff’s eyes should be bathed as often as possible.
• The ears should be cleaned inside weekly or as part of the grooming routine so as to avoid recurring problems.
• Clean under the dog’s chin regularly, as food collects in this area very quickly.