About The Neapolitan Mastiff

The Neapolitan Mastiff or Mastino Napoletano is an Italian breed of a large dog. It descends from the traditional guard dogs of central Italy. It was recognized as a breed by the Ente Nazionale della Cinofilia Italiana in 1949 and accepted by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale in 1956

Unless you've been to Jurassic Park, you've never seen anything like a Mastino. These majestic guardians of startling appearance are massive, powerful dogs. The U.S. Neapolitan Mastiff Club describes their dog's head as "astounding" and gives them credit for hitting upon just the right adjective. The profuse hanging wrinkles and folds, and pendulous lips, make a Mastino look like a marzipan Mastiff that's been out in the sun too long. And yet, the breed's inner dignity and nobility can only be described as beautiful.

1.Life expectancy: 8 – 10 years

2.Origin: Italy

3.Height: Male: 63–77 cm, Female: 58–70 cm

4.Colors: Black, Brindle, Tawny, Mahogany, Blue

5.Weight: Male: 60–70 kg, Female: 50–60 kg

6.Temperament: Stubborn, Obedient, Fearless, Dominant, Trainable, Protective

Temperament

The Neo is quiet, watchful, and protective of his family, including other pets. Although he may have the appearance of a gentle giant, he is not a mellow, easygoing dog. He is suspicious of strangers and can be aggressive toward dogs he doesn't know.

Because they bond so closely with their people, Neos may not like the intrusion of anyone else into the family circle. Their possessiveness extends beyond people to anything within their territory, and their desire to always be with their family can contribute to separation anxiety.

Begin training as soon as you bring your Neapolitan Mastiff puppy home, while he is still at a manageable size. That 20-pound puppy will quickly grow much larger. A nothing-in-life-is-free program, requiring puppies to "work" for everything they get by performing a command before receiving meals, toys, treats, or play, works well with this breed.

It's always a good idea to take a Neapolitan Mastiff to puppy kindergarten followed by basic obedience class, especially if you are working with a trainer who understands the Neapolitan Mastiff mindset. Never wait until he is six months old to begin training, or you will have a more headstrong dog to deal with. If possible, get him to puppy kindergarten class by the time he is 10 to 12 weeks old, so you can start building a strong working relationship. However, be aware that many puppy training classes require certain vaccines (like kennel cough) to be up to date, and many veterinarians recommend limited exposure to other dogs and public places until puppy vaccines (including rabies, distemper, and parvovirus) have been completed. In lieu of formal training, you can begin training your puppy at home and socializing him among family and friends until puppy vaccines are completed.

Early, frequent socialization is essential to prevent a Neapolitan Mastiff from becoming overly suspicious or fearful of anything new or different. Purchase a Neapolitan Mastiff puppy from a breeder who raises the pups in the home and ensures that they are exposed to many different household sights and sounds, as well as people, before they go off to their new homes. Once your vet gives the green light, continue socializing your Neapolitan Mastiff throughout his life by taking him to puppy kindergarten class, visits to friends and neighbors, and selective outings to local shops and businesses. This is the only way he can learn to be discriminating, recognizing what is normal and what is truly a threat. These experiences as a young dog will help him grow into a sensible, calm adult dog.

Talk to the breeder, describe exactly what you're looking for in a dog, and ask for assistance in selecting a puppy. Breeders see the puppies daily and can make uncannily accurate recommendations once they know something about your lifestyle and personality. Whatever you want from a Neapolitan Mastiff, look for one whose parents have nice personalities and who has been well socialized from early puppiespp.