Also known as the Italian Mastiff, the Italian Bull, the Neo, the Molosso Italiano, the Mastino Napolitano, or simply Mastino, the breed gives the impression of being a Shar Pei crossed with a great Dane.  In fact, it is no hybrid, but a pure breed that is a descendant of the great Roman Mastiff. The ancestral form of this dog was a favorite breed of Alexander the Great, who was given a pair by a defeated asian king Porus in northern India. They were employed as fighting, guarding and war dogs. Today it is used in several major roles: as a much feared house guard, as a police dog, and even as a draught dog. It has a steady temperament and will only attack on command and is safe and reliable at other times. It is also described as very loyal, watchful and serious companion dog.
Photo courtesy of galoubet.com
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