Neapolitan Mastiff Dog Breed Information, Puppies & Breeders 

Are you considering getting a new furry friend and wondering which breed would be the best fit for you? If you’re looking for a loyal and protective companion, the Neapolitan Mastiff might be the perfect breed for you. Known for their massive size and wrinkly faces, these dogs are adored by many for their gentle nature and fierce loyalty. However, as with any breed, it’s important to do your research and understand the unique needs of a Neapolitan Mastiff before bringing one into your home.

Breed Category: Working
Country of Origin: Italy
Average Size:60-75 cm
Average Weight:50-70 kg
Average Life Span: 7-9 years
Grooming Requirements: High
Exercise Requirements:Moderate

History and Origin

The Neapolitan Mastiff is a large and powerful breed of dog that originated in Italy. This breed is known for its massive size, wrinkled skin, and protective nature. The history of the Neapolitan Mastiff can be traced back to ancient Rome, where they were used as war dogs and guardians of the home.

During the Roman Empire, the Neapolitan Mastiff was used in battles and was also used to guard the homes of wealthy families. The breed was highly valued for its strength, loyalty, and protective nature. The Neapolitan Mastiff was also used to hunt wild animals such as bears and boars.

After the fall of the Roman Empire, the Neapolitan Mastiff became less popular and almost went extinct. However, in the 1940s, a group of Italian breeders worked to revive the breed. They focused on breeding dogs with the original characteristics of the breed, such as its massive size and protective nature.

In the 1970s, the Neapolitan Mastiff was introduced to the United States and quickly gained popularity. The breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 2004. Today, the Neapolitan Mastiff is still used as a guard dog and is also a popular family pet.

The Neapolitan Mastiff is a large and powerful breed that requires a lot of training and socialization. They are known for their loyalty and protective nature, making them excellent guard dogs. However, they can also be gentle and affectionate with their families.

The Neapolitan Mastiff has a distinctive appearance, with its massive size and wrinkled skin. They have a short, dense coat that comes in a variety of colors, including black, blue, and fawn. The breed has a broad head and a powerful jaw, which makes them excellent protectors.

In conclusion, the Neapolitan Mastiff is a fascinating breed with a rich history. From its origins as a war dog in ancient Rome to its current role as a family pet, the Neapolitan Mastiff has proven to be a loyal and protective companion. With proper training and socialization, this breed can make an excellent addition to any family.

Size and Breed Category

The Neapolitan Mastiff is a large and powerful breed of dog that originated in Italy. They are classified as a giant breed, with males typically weighing between 60-70 kg and standing at a height of 65-75 cm at the shoulder. Females are slightly smaller, weighing between 50-60 kg and standing at a height of 60-68 cm at the shoulder. Their bodies are muscular and well-proportioned, with a broad chest and a thick, heavy neck. They have a short, dense coat that can be black, blue, mahogany, or tawny in color.

The Neapolitan Mastiff is a member of the working group of dogs and is known for its loyalty and protective nature. They were originally bred to guard homes and estates, and their size and strength make them an effective deterrent against intruders. Despite their imposing appearance, they are generally calm and affectionate with their families. However, they can be wary of strangers and may require early socialization and training to prevent aggression. Due to their size and exercise requirements, they are best suited to homes with a large yard or outdoor space.

Fur Length and Colour

The fur of the Neapolitan Mastiff is short and dense, with a rough texture. The fur is usually black, blue, mahogany, or tawny in color. The fur color can also be brindle, which is a mix of black and brown stripes. The fur on the head and neck is usually shorter and smoother than the fur on the body. The fur on the tail is longer and bushy. The fur on the legs is also longer and thicker than the fur on the body. The fur on the ears is usually darker than the rest of the fur. The fur on the face is usually wrinkled, giving the dog a unique appearance.

The Neapolitan Mastiff’s fur is not only short and dense, but it is also waterproof. This makes the dog well-suited for wet and cold weather conditions. The fur is also easy to maintain, requiring only occasional brushing to remove loose hair. The fur sheds moderately throughout the year, with heavier shedding occurring during the spring and fall. The fur color can fade over time, especially if the dog is exposed to sunlight for extended periods. The fur on the Neapolitan Mastiff is an important characteristic of the breed, contributing to its distinctive appearance and practicality.

Termperament and Trainability

Neapolitan Mastiffs are known for their calm and gentle temperament. They are loyal and protective of their family, making them excellent guard dogs. However, they can be wary of strangers and may require proper socialization from an early age. These dogs are not very active and prefer to lounge around the house, making them suitable for apartment living. They are also known to be stubborn and independent, which can make training a challenge. Consistent and patient training is necessary to ensure they understand their role in the family and follow commands.

When it comes to trainability, Neapolitan Mastiffs can be difficult to train due to their stubborn nature. They require a firm and consistent approach to training, as well as positive reinforcement. Harsh training methods can cause them to become defensive and uncooperative. These dogs are intelligent and can learn quickly, but they may not always follow commands if they do not see the point in doing so. Early socialization and training are crucial to ensure they grow up to be well-behaved and obedient dogs. With the right approach, Neapolitan Mastiffs can be trained to be excellent companions and guard dogs.

Known Health Conditions

Neapolitan Mastiffs are prone to several health conditions that owners should be aware of. One of the most common issues is hip dysplasia, which is a genetic condition that affects the hip joint. This can cause pain, stiffness, and difficulty walking, and may require surgery to correct. Another condition that Neapolitan Mastiffs are susceptible to is bloat, which is a life-threatening condition where the stomach fills with gas and twists on itself. This can cause a range of symptoms, including vomiting, restlessness, and difficulty breathing, and requires immediate veterinary attention. Additionally, Neapolitan Mastiffs may be prone to skin allergies, eye problems, and heart disease, so regular check-ups with a veterinarian are essential to ensure their health and wellbeing.

Another health condition that Neapolitan Mastiffs may experience is cherry eye, which is a condition where the gland in the third eyelid becomes inflamed and protrudes from the eye. This can cause irritation, redness, and discharge, and may require surgery to correct. Additionally, Neapolitan Mastiffs may be prone to elbow dysplasia, which is a genetic condition that affects the elbow joint and can cause lameness and pain. Other health issues that may affect Neapolitan Mastiffs include ear infections, obesity, and respiratory problems, so it is important for owners to monitor their dog’s health and seek veterinary care if any issues arise. With proper care and attention, however, Neapolitan Mastiffs can live long, healthy lives and bring joy to their families for many years.

Openness to Strangers

Neapolitan Mastiffs are known for their reserved nature when it comes to strangers. They are not the type of dog to immediately approach someone they do not know. Instead, they tend to observe from a distance and assess the situation before making any moves. This can be seen as a form of caution, as Neapolitan Mastiffs are naturally protective of their family and territory. However, once they have determined that a stranger poses no threat, they can be quite friendly and affectionate. It is important to note that socialization and training play a crucial role in shaping a Neapolitan Mastiff’s behavior towards strangers.

Despite their initial wariness towards strangers, Neapolitan Mastiffs are not aggressive by nature. They are not known to be barkers or to display any aggressive behavior without provocation. However, their size and strength can be intimidating to some people, which is why early socialization and training are important. Neapolitan Mastiffs can be trained to be more accepting of strangers and to behave appropriately in social situations. It is also important for owners to be responsible and to supervise their dogs when around strangers, especially children. Overall, Neapolitan Mastiffs can be great companions for those who are willing to put in the time and effort to properly socialize and train them.

Playfulness Level

The Neapolitan Mastiff is a breed that is known for its playful nature. They are highly energetic and love to play with their owners. They are always up for a game of fetch or tug-of-war and will happily run around the garden with their owners. Their playful nature makes them great companions for families with children, as they love to play and interact with kids. However, it is important to note that their size and strength can make them a bit too boisterous for very young children, so supervision is always recommended. Overall, the Neapolitan Mastiff’s playful nature is one of their most endearing qualities.

Despite their large size, the Neapolitan Mastiff is surprisingly agile and loves to play games that require them to use their physical abilities. They are great at playing catch and love to chase after balls or frisbees. They also enjoy playing hide-and-seek and will happily search for their owners around the house or garden. Their playful nature makes them great companions for people who enjoy an active lifestyle, as they are always up for a game of fetch or a run in the park. Overall, the Neapolitan Mastiff’s playful nature is one of their most charming traits and makes them a great addition to any family.

Suitability as a Pet for Children

Neapolitan Mastiffs are known for their loyalty and protective nature, making them a great choice for families with children. They are a muscular breed with a short, dense coat that requires minimal grooming. Their size and strength may be intimidating, but with proper training and socialization, they can be gentle and affectionate with children. It is important to note that Neapolitan Mastiffs require a lot of exercise and space to roam, so they may not be suitable for families living in small apartments or without access to a yard.

Exercise Needs

Neapolitan Mastiffs require a moderate amount of exercise to maintain their physical and mental health. As a large breed, they need daily walks of at least 30-45 minutes to keep them fit and prevent obesity. Additionally, they enjoy playing and running in a secure, fenced area, such as a backyard or dog park. However, it is important to note that they are not a high-energy breed and do not require intense exercise or long-distance running. Instead, they prefer short bursts of activity and mental stimulation through training and interactive play.

In addition to physical exercise, Neapolitan Mastiffs also benefit from mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. They are intelligent dogs that enjoy learning new commands and tricks, as well as participating in activities such as obedience training, agility, and scent work. Puzzle toys and interactive games can also provide mental stimulation and prevent boredom. However, it is important to avoid over-exercising Neapolitan Mastiffs, especially in hot weather, as they are prone to overheating and respiratory issues. Overall, a balanced exercise routine that includes both physical and mental stimulation is essential for the health and well-being of Neapolitan Mastiffs.

Suitability for a Multi-Pet Family

Neapolitan Mastiffs have a reputation for being protective of their family and territory. They can be wary of strangers and may not get along with other dogs, especially those of the same sex. However, with proper socialization and training, they can coexist peacefully with other pets in the household. It is important to supervise interactions between the Neapolitan Mastiff and other animals, especially during the initial introduction period.

Housing Requirements

Neapolitan Mastiffs require a spacious and secure living environment. They are a breed that needs plenty of room to move around and exercise, so a large garden or yard is essential. The height of the fence should be at least six feet to prevent them from jumping over it. Additionally, the fence should be sturdy enough to withstand their weight and strength. Neapolitan Mastiffs are known for their protective nature, so it is important to ensure that the fence is secure enough to prevent them from escaping and potentially causing harm to others.

Inside the house, Neapolitan Mastiffs require a comfortable and cozy living space. They are a breed that enjoys spending time with their family, so it is important to provide them with a designated area where they can relax and feel at home. A large, comfortable bed is essential, as well as plenty of toys and chew bones to keep them entertained. Neapolitan Mastiffs are prone to drooling, so it is important to have easy-to-clean surfaces and floors. Additionally, they require regular grooming to keep their coat healthy and shiny.

Summary

Neapolitan Mastiffs can be a good choice for experienced dog owners who have the time and resources to properly train and care for them. They require regular exercise and socialization, and can be prone to health issues that may require expensive veterinary care. Due to their size and strength, they may not be suitable for households with small children or other pets. It is important to research and understand the breed’s temperament and needs before considering a Neapolitan Mastiff as a pet.

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