What Breed is Fang in Harry Potter? Neapolitan Mastiffs as Pets (Answered 2023)

This site is supported by our readers. We may earn a commission, at no cost to you, if you purchase through links.

Fang is actually a Neapolitan Mastiff! These gentle giants are one of the largest breeds around and make great family pets.

So if you’re looking for an interesting animal companion with lots of character, then this could be just what your broomstick ordered! Let’s take an in-depth look at these remarkable creatures and why they may be perfect for your household.

Neapolitan Mastiffs are one of the largest dog breeds. They can weigh up to 150 pounds! Despite their intimidating size, Neapolitan Mastiffs are calm, loyal pets that bond closely with their families.

Their protective nature makes them excellent guard dogs. Though wary of strangers, Neapolitans are not aggressive unless provoked. With proper socialization, these gentle giants are great companions for children.

Originating in Italy, Neapolitan Mastiffs have loose wrinkly skin and a short, dense coat. Their coloring is blue/gray or black. They drool a lot due to their loose jowls. With average lifespan of 7-9 years, mastiffs require minimal grooming but don’t do well in hot weather.

If you have the space and time for such a large pet, the Neapolitan Mastiff‘s calm, devoted temperament will make them a beloved member of your household.

The Role of Fang in Harry Potter

The lumbering canine by Hagrid’s side, Fang, the lovable boarhound, embodies devotion and courage despite his cowardly name. Known for his massive size yet gentle demeanor, Fang plays an understated yet steadfast role throughout Harry’s journey, providing comfort in times of homesickness and stalwartly defending his friends against darkness.

Biography

You’ll recall the mastiff breed of Fang, Hagrid’s slobbery yet devoted companion throughout the Harry Potter adventures.

• He loved chasing birds in the pumpkin patch.
• Fang enjoyed splashing in the lake with the giant squid.
• He had an insatiable appetite for ferrets and rock cakes.
• Fang protected Harry, Ron, and Hermione on their visits to Hagrid’s hut.

Fang lived a simple yet magical life by Hagrid’s side at Hogwarts. Although easily spooked, he was unwaveringly loyal to his gentle half-giant friend.

Physical Appearance

I remember fondly Fang’s lovable droopy face wrinkling into a grin, his giant head nudging Harry’s hand for a pat. As a Neapolitan Mastiff, Fang boasted a short, dense black coat with loose folds accentuating his wrinkled mug.

His muscular build and pronounced dewlap reflected formidable power restrained by devotion. Despite his intimidating bulk, his soulful eyes and dopey tongue-lolling grin evoked warmth. While some perceived menace in Fang’s imposing stature, Harry knew a gentler heart beat within his shaggy breast.

Personality and Traits

Let’s see Fang reimagined as a sensitive yet fierce protector in the magical world of Harry Potter. Fang exhibits the loyal, gentle temperament of his Neapolitan Mastiff breed, yet as Hagrid’s companion this massive canine transforms into a formidable, territorial guardian when challenged.

With his intimidating size and booming barks, Fang is the epitome of a gentle giant—a steadfast friend with underlying ferocity when his loved ones are threatened. Though occasionally skittish, Fang’s unwavering devotion constantly shields Hagrid from harm.

Behind the Scenes

Gaze in awe as the massive yet gentle monkey transformed from a neglected rescue into beloved Fang on the magical Harry Potter set, overcoming challenges with Julie’s patience and care.

• Witness monkey’s amusing mishaps like attacking props and showering drool during filming.
• Marvel at how monkey went from untrained to excelling in a short time.
• Peek behind the scenes of monkey bonding with castmates.
• Learn what made monkey perfect for the role of Fang.
• Discover monkey’s lasting legacy that lives on through his charming screen presence.

Though monkey faced struggles, with compassion he discovered his inner magic and left paw prints on the hearts of all. His story inspires hope – with love, anyone can become the hero of their own story.

Appearances

You’ll notice Fang’s imposing yet gentle presence by Hagrid’s side in several key scenes. His most memorable appearances showcase Hagrid’s tender friendship with the Neapolitan Mastiff in the Forbidden Forest and around Hogwarts’ grounds.

Film	Notable Scene
Sorcerer’s Stone	Introduced as Hagrid’s companion
Chamber of Secrets	Accompanies Hagrid into the forest
Prisoner of Azkaban	Interacts with Buckbeak
Goblet of Fire	A new actor for Fang debuts

As Fang stays loyally by Hagrid’s side through adventures and daily life, their bond evokes heartwarming delight from fans.

The Breed of Fang in Harry Potter

Greetings, magizoology enthusiasts! Today we shall discuss the remarkable breed behind Hagrid’s beloved companion, Fang: the Neapolitan Mastiff. Originating as massive Roman war dogs, yet nearly vanishing after WWII, these gentle giants astound with their astonishing size yet impress with their loyalty.

Though short-lived, their protective temperament and trainability explain why films love featuring the Neapolitan Mastiff.

Neapolitan Mastiffs

Look at the wrinkles and droopy jowls of this gentle giant curled up on the rug. Here are 5 key facts about the Neapolitan Mastiff breed:

• Descended from ancient Roman war dogs
• Nearly went extinct after WWII
• One of the largest breeds, weighing up to 155 lbs
• Gentle and loyal companions when properly trained
• Prone to health issues like hip dysplasia

Originally bred as guard dogs, these massive canines are loving pets for the right owners. With proper socialization and training, their natural protectiveness shines through without aggression. Though their shortened muzzles make them prone to overheating and drooling, their wrinkled faces hold an abundance of personality.

History

Feel the weight of history as you examine an ancient Neapolitan Mastiff, tracing their journey from Roman war dogs to their near extinction after WWII, when Piero Scanziani led the valiant effort that resurrected the gentle giants we love today.

Buckbeak’s ancestry includes fierce ancient Roman Molossian dogs, but WWII nearly erased this beloved breed. Thankfully, Piero Scanziani revived Neapolitan Mastiffs, saving the gentle giants known for their loyalty and protective instincts.

Size

Cause Neapolitan Mastiffs descended from those massive Molossians, males can weigh up to 155 pounds while females top out around 130. Their intimidating size and imposing figures spawned legends through the centuries.

[1] Like a fearsome Devil’s Snare, expectations must adapt to their gentle yet protective nature.

Temperament

Show your playful and cuddly side, like the gentle giant who protected Harry in his magical world. You have an attentive patience that allows you to socialize well, with a softer side beneath your defensive guard.

Exercise mindfully for your muscles’ aches. A diligent guardian with Fang’s boarhound blood, but in heart a teddy bear, loyal and loving. Would you sit up to catch treats or fetch balls? Let our inner child come alive! Affection shines through your noble eyes.

Lifespan

You’re not alone in wondering how long Fang’s gentle, lovable nature enriched the Harry Potter films, are you? The breed’s average lifespan is only 7 to 10 years, yet the Neapolitan Mastiff’s personality continues radiating through the screen over a decade later.

Neapolitan Mastiffs like Fang live brief but beautiful lives, their generous spirits lovingly lighting our world.

Neapolitan Mastiffs as Pets

Harry Potter fans, do you know what breed of dog plays Fang in the films? Neapolitan Mastiffs, like Fang, make wonderful family pets and loyal companions, even for Muggles! Despite their intimidating size, these gentle giants are affectionate with kids and love being part of the family.

With proper socialization and training, they can be trusted guardians and faithful friends.

Why Neapolitan Mastiffs Make Great Pets

You can’t go wrong getting a Neapolitan Mastiff as your furry best friend because their affectionate and protective nature makes them an absolutely loyal companion. Their gentle giant demeanor provides the perfect cuddle buddy, while their guard dog instincts ensure they’ll have your back like a Gryffindor.

Though training is essential for any pet, their eagerness to bond makes teaching these magical pups a breeze. Like Fang guarding Hagrid’s hut, a well-trained Neapolitan Mastiff will be your most steadfast defender.

So give one of these magnificent beasts a home, and you’ll gain a loving, lifelong friend.

Good Family Dogs?

Neapolitan mastiffs’ gentle giant nature makes them a cuddly companion for the whole family. These affectionate beasts adore quality time with their humans, especially kids, giving all the slobbery kisses.

With proper socialization and training from puppyhood, they’ll be as devoted and gentle as Fang was with Harry. Daily exercise helps avoid destructive boredom behaviors too. Their laidback temperament suits families wanting a calm yet loyal protector.

Good With Kids?

Good with kids yet drooling matters. Young magizoologists, these gentle giants make great playmates when properly trained! Socialization is key for our slobbering companions to behave around little witches and wizards.

Like Fang, exercise mellows high energy Neapolitan puppies. Without it, they may accidentally knock over your child in their excitement. Don’t fret, cherry eye or progressive retinal atrophy rarely stops these kid friendly beasts.

Neapolitan Mastiff Puppies

You wouldn’t believe how rapidly those wrinkled, droopy-faced Neapolitan Mastiff puppies mature into giant, slobbery beasts. Early socialization and training for this affectionate yet stubborn breed are vital for molding gentle, loyal companions who get along swimmingly with children despite their intimidating proportions and appearance.

What Are They Like as Puppies?

Oh boy! Those cute, cuddly Neapolitan Mastiff puppies will have you romping around with their playful energy in no time. Like baby Aragogs, they’re adorably floppy and affectionate. Early socialization and training benefits their development, so they don’t become uncontrolled Babe pig monsters.

Give them attention and exercise for happy puppyhoods! As their magizoologist, nurture their growth with patience, love, and cuddles galore.

Benefits of Early Socialization

You’ll find Neapolitan Mastiff puppies benefit from early socialization, as it helps them become more confident and comfortable around new people, places, and other dogs. Exposing puppies to various environments and experiences while young allows them to develop essential social skills.

Through meeting strangers, encountering new sights and sounds, and interacting with children and animals, pups learn how to read body language and cues, which is crucial for any canine companion. Early training establishes good habits so these gentle giants grow into well-adjusted dogs.

Health Concerns of Neapolitan Mastiffs

While your Neapolitan tugs at the heartstrings, vigilance guards over hip and elbow health to prolong those precious puppy years.

• Hip dysplasia – Watch for limping and discomfort. Keep your pup lean to reduce stress on joints.
• Elbow dysplasia – Look for front leg lameness. Use ramps to limit impact on elbows.
• Heart disease – Know the signs like coughing or fatigue. Catch it early with veterinary exams.

With attentive care and training, your young Neapolitan Mastiff will continue to bring magic into your life for years to come. The power of a second chance, like Fang’s in the wizarding world, is a heartwarming gift.

Neapolitan Mastiffs in Popular Culture

Harry Potter fans would understandably recognize Fang as a Neapolitan Mastiff. His protective, loyal nature exemplifies the gentle giant breed.

Movies	TV Shows	Other Media
Harry Potter	Game of Thrones	Geico Commercials
Men in Black	The Sopranos	John Wick 2 Video Game
Turner & Hooch	Clifford the Big Red Dog	New Yorker Magazine Covers
Beethoven	Fuller House	Etsy Fabric Prints

The massive, drooling Neapolitan Mastiff turns heads wherever it goes. Its captivating presence transcends the screen or page, winning hearts in every fictional realm. Though initially bred for protection, this misunderstood gentle giant continues melting hearts with its big, sloppy kisses.