The Neapolitan Mastiff or Italian Mastiff, () is a large, ancient dog breed. This large breed is often used as a guard dog and family protector. Despite their looks, they are a big gentle dog with family and friends. They can be trained as guard dogs to protect people or property. Neapolitan Mastiffs need a lot of daily exercise. They are one of the oldest dog breeds. The Neapolitan Mastiff descends from the traditional guard dogs of central Italy, that were direct descendants of the ""Canis Pugnax"" of the legions of ancient Rome. It was recognised as a breed by the "Ente Nazionale della Cinofilia Italiana" in 1949.