Neapolitan Mastiff dog breed was bred in southern Italy as a family and guard dog. Due to its abundance, the widespread use of loose skin and ossification may have made Napoleon Mastiff.
The most dangerous form of any dog, some say, is intruders without moving the dog. This look was deliberately created to frighten. However, in general, Neapolitan authentic are relatively low-maintenance, easy pets. Like all pets, these big dogs have prices.
When forced to work, nine can act at incredible speeds. Its massive muscular body can shrink almost any intruder. Its vast head is short,
About Neapolitan Mastiff
You can thank Alexander the Great for his great respect and kindness. In the 4th century BC, he crossed his famous war dogs with short-haired Indian dogs to create a breed he used in war.
The Romans took note and later adopted the genus Mollusus for combat and hunting, eventually crossing it with other significant races to produce an even bigger and scarier canine: the Mastino.
Farmers in southern Italy chose Mastino to produce a large breed with loose, deep skin and a smooth coat. In his chosen breed, he also planned to breed a more family-friendly dog than Mastino, although he is still a high-level guard and protector.
This race became known as Napoleon Mister after his hometown of Naples. The dog soon became a national treasure in Italy, and six of them were featured at the first dog show in Naples in 1946.
The breed standard was drafted in 1948 by Italian artist Piero Tanzania, and the following year, the Italian Canal Club formally recognized the breed.
Care
Neapolitan Mastiffs are a unique breed known for their relaxed and calm temperament. These dogs have a short and wrinkly coat that makes them stand out in a crowd.
One of the benefits of owning a Mastiff is its lower exercise requirements, making it an excellent fit for individuals or families who may not have the time for extensive exercise routines. However, don’t be fooled.
These gentle giants still require plenty of training and grooming care to keep them healthy and happy. With consistent training, socialization, and proper grooming care, your Mastiff can become a well-behaved and loyal companion at home.
Skin Care
The Neapolitan Mastiff is a majestic creature with a sensitive side – literally. Their skin is sensitive and oily, so regular bathing is a must. According to the United States Neapolitan Mastiff Club, a bath once or twice a month is the way to go.
But what if your furry pal has been diagnosed with skin allergies? Then, it’s time to step up the bathing game. For dogs with allergies, more frequent baths will help to keep their skin healthy and comfortable. So don’t be shy about filling that tub – your pup will thank you!
Eye Care
As a pet parent, your dog’s health is essential. This is especially true for those with Neapolitan Mastiffs, as they are prone to a condition known as cherry eye. Keeping a close eye on your pup’s eyes is essential to ensure they stay healthy and free of any issues.
Should you notice any changes in your dog’s eyes, speaking with a veterinarian as soon as possible is crucial. With their guidance, you can make important decisions about your Neapolitan Mastiff’s eye care to keep them happy and healthy for years.
Coat Care
Neapolitan Mastiffs are majestic creatures with short, sleek coats that require gentle brushing a few times per week. Despite their short fur, their sensitive skin can easily be damaged if brushed too harshly.
It’s important to remember that even short-haired dogs require regular grooming to keep their coats healthy and shiny. During the spring and fall seasons, their shedding increases, which means they’ll need even more frequent brushing to keep their skin looking fresh.
Ear Care
Ear health is an essential aspect of caring for your furry friend. Regularly taking note of your Neapolitan Mastiff’s ears can prevent any potential health problems. Mastiff’s ears are prone to lacerations, dirt, and excess wax buildup.
Cleaning their ears with a dog-specific ear cleaner and checking for any noticeable changes is essential in ensuring your pup’s health. Your veterinarian can help guide you with techniques for cleaning and preventing ear infections.
Temperament
Neapolitan Mastiff was bred for centuries to protect his family. As such, he is incredibly loyal and devoted to his family, watchful and suspicious of strangers and tolerant of acquaintances. This is a house dog.
Although it loves children, its sheer size can make accidents possible. It may not work well with other dogs, especially the authoritarian type. Due to its size, it should be carefully socialized at an early age.
Grooming
The Neapolitan Mastiff is a majestic breed known for its short coat. One of the perks of having a short-coated dog is the minimal maintenance when it comes to baths. However, this does not mean you can skip out on proper grooming entirely.
Make sure to check your dog’s eyes and ears regularly, and gently clean them with a damp cloth or paper towel as needed. And let’s not forget about the drool! You’ll want to keep a towel handy to dry their face and lips, especially after mealtime.
Lastly, don’t forget to attend to those nails. Keep them trimmed for your pet’s comfort and good hygiene. With these small grooming habits, your Neapolitan Mastiff will continue to be the regal companion that you adore.
Exercise
As a pet owner, you want your dog to be happy and healthy, so giving them plenty of opportunities to run and play is essential.
However, when it comes to a giant, heavily built breed like the Neo, it’s essential to be mindful of their joints and the potential for overheating in warm weather. While it might be tempting to let your Neo puppy play longer than it should, it’s up to you to recognize when they need a break.
Additionally, it’s essential to be careful about letting them go up and down stairs or engage in activities like tug-of-war or violent wrestling. Taking these precautions can help ensure that your Neo stays healthy and happy for years.
Weight
The majestic Neapolitan Mastiff is a powerful breed that demands attention. Known for their imposing size, these dogs can make quite a statement. Interestingly, the male and female Neapolitan Mastiffs differ not just in height.
But in mass as well. Males are typically larger, weighing an impressive 130-150lbs, while females are slightly lighter, ranging between 110-130lbs. Regardless of their size, these dogs are fiercely loyal and protective of their families, making them a popular choice for those looking for a devoted companion.
Training
Neapolitan puppies are undeniably adorable and full of energy. They’re just like cute, cuddly puppies that everyone loves playing with. However, they become more assertive, stubborn, and energetic as they grow up.
That’s why it’s crucial to start training them when they’re young, so they learn to respect your authority and follow your rules. By establishing a solid hierarchy early on, you’ll be able to deal with their teenage personality stage more effectively.
With patience and consistency, you can create a rewarding atmosphere that encourages good behavior and discourages unwanted behaviors.
It’s essential to avoid using harsh training methods, as they don’t respond well to them. If you’re willing to invest the time and effort, you’ll end up with a laidback adult Neapolitan that’s both calm and affectionate.
Health Problems
Joint health is a concern for Napoleon mausoleums because of their large size. With all their extra skin and big muscles, their joints carry much weight. When examining your dog’s health, check with your doctor for hips and elbows.
Also, deep-seated dogs are at risk of developing a condition called blotting, which occurs when they eat or drink too fast.
Their stomachs can swell and fill with gas, sometimes bursting their guts or damaging other organs. Blotting can be prevented with small, frequent feedings or a “slow feed” cup.
Nutrition
A healthy and nutritious diet is vital for the well-being of every dog, and the Neapolitan Mastiff is no exception. To ensure that your furry friend remains healthy and happy, providing them with high-quality dog food suitable for their age and physical requirements is essential.
Whether you choose commercially manufactured food or prefer home-prepared meals, it is crucial to consult with your veterinarian before making any changes. Expert breeders suggest a diet slightly higher in fat and lower in protein, particularly during their growing years.
It is also important not to supplement your Neapolitan Mastiff’s diet with calcium. If you have concerns about your dog’s weight or diet, discuss it with your veterinarian. Finally, fresh water should always be available to keep your dog hydrated and healthy.
Neapolitan Mastiff Facts
- The Neapolitan mastiff dogs are an impressive breed that has been around for centuries. Originating as guards and defenders of property, they reappeared in Italy in the 1940s.
- These dogs have a massive presence, muscular bodies, and a remarkable appearance. Their head is gigantic and seems to be larger than their body.
- One of their defining characteristics is their wrinkled face, which partly hides their eyes. Their gait is slow yet powerful, described as rolling and lumbering by the American Kennel Club.
- While they are not unnecessarily aggressive, they protect their family and property.
- Neos make great family pets and are good with children, although they tend to be clumsy due to their size.
- It is essential to start training them at an early age to keep them social with other dogs, as they may have a power struggle with larger dogs and be too heavy to play with smaller dogs.
Characteristics of the Neapolitan Mastiff
| Affection Level | High |
| Friendliness | Medium |
| Kid-Friendly | High |
| Pet-Friendly | Medium |
| Exercise Needs | Medium |
| Playfulness | Low |
| Protectiveness | High |
| Energy Level | Low |
| Trainability | Medium |
| Intelligence | Medium |
| Tendency to Bark | Low |
| Amount of Shedding | Medium |
Is a Neapolitan Mastiff aggressive?
The Neapolitan Mastiff is known for its loyalty and devotion to its family. However, this also means they have a strong protective instinct, sometimes leading to aggression towards strangers and other pets.
Socializing your Neapolitan Mastiff early on is crucial, as consistent and positive exposure to individuals and other animals can help prevent any unwanted behavior. With proper training and socialization, your Neapolitan Mastiff can be a loving and well-behaved companion at home and in public.
Is a Neapolitan Mastiff a good family dog?
Neapolitan Mastiffs are known for their loyalty and love for their families. These gentle giants enjoy quality time with their owners and are highly affectionate with children and adults.
However, training your Neapolitan Mastiff early is crucial to ensure their behavior is well-mannered and controlled indoors. With the proper training and guidance, you will have a calm and obedient pet that is a joy to have around.
How to Adopt or Buy a Neapolitan Mastiff?
Getting a new puppy is exciting and something many families dream of doing. However, when adopting a puppy, the priority should always be animal welfare. That’s why we encourage promoting adoption as the best option.
But what if you’re looking for a specific breed, like the rare Neapolitan mastiff? While this breed may be difficult to find in a shelter, you can still search for breed-specific rescue clubs. Another helpful resource is the national breed club and AKC.
Which can provide valuable information on the breed. If you do decide to buy from a breeder, be sure to do your research. A responsible breeder will happily provide you with all the necessary background information on the litter and the parents.
You should always ensure that the breeding environment is healthy and the parents are free of health problems. Remember, you should never buy a puppy before seeing the parents!
FAQs
When it comes to feeding your Neapolitan Mastiff, there are several factors to remember. From their size and weight to activity levels and overall health, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to feeding these gentle giants.
While following the portion sizes recommended on your dog food bag is a good start, it’s essential to understand that your Neapolitan Mastiff may have unique nutritional needs. Be sure to consult with your veterinarian if you have any doubts or questions about how much to feed your furry friend.
Owning a furry friend is a lot of responsibility. It can be costly, especially if it’s a purebred Neapolitan Mastiff puppy. With a price tag ranging between $3,500 to $5,000, depending on the breeding, you want to ensure you’re adequately equipped to welcome your new pet home.
That’s the case with Neapolitan Mastiffs and Cane Corsi. At first glance, these Italian breeds might look identical, but one fundamental way to tell them apart is their skin. Neapolitan Mastiffs have adorable wrinkles all over their bodies, while Cane Corsi have smooth, tight skin.
These breeds may share some similarities in size and color but differ in personality, energy levels, and exercise needs. So the next time you come across a big, beautiful dog and think it’s a Cane Corso or Neapolitan Mastiff, remember to check their skin for those telltale folds.
Even though Neapolitan mastiffs have a relatively short expected lifespan of 7–9 years, these gentle giants leave an indelible impression on their owners. Their massive size, wrinkled faces, and droopy jowls create an immediate impact.
But it’s their loyalty and affection that genuinely captures our hearts. Neapolitan mastiffs have a reputation for being among the most protective dogs, but they also possess a gentle nature that makes them great companions for families with children.
Conclusion
The Neapolitan Mastiff is an ancient breed with a proud history, beautiful physical features, and fantastic personality traits that make them perfect companions for those looking for a loyal and protective friend.
While some consider the Neapolitan Mastiff intimidating, they are gentle giants with a heart of gold and exemplify loyalty in relationships. As such, owners require a lot of patience, understanding, and consistency to ensure they can live up to their full potential.