The Neapolitan Mastiff is a massive, loyal and protective dog breed that is perfect for families looking for a big, cuddly and loving pet. It is a giant among dogs and is not for everyone. The Neapolitan is a guarding breed by nature and will protect its family from perceived threats. This Mastiff is not suitable for first-time dog owners or families with small children. They are loyal and protective of their loved ones, and make great guard dogs. Other names are Mastino and Mastino Napoletano or NEO.
History
The Neapolitan Mastiff is thought to be the ancestor of all modern Mastiff breeds. The breed originated in Italy and was used by the Roman army to guard camps and battle lines. This Mastiff was also used as a guardian of flocks and farms, and as a personal protection dog by Italian nobles. The Mastino was brought to the United States in the early 1950s, but it was not recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) until 2004.
Size
The Neapolitan Mastiff is a large dog breed with a short, smooth coat that comes in a variety of colors. The most common colors are black, blue, tawny, mahogany and brindle. The breed generally weighs between 120 and 200 pounds and stands 24 to 31 inches tall at the shoulder. The average lifespan of a Mastino is 8 to 12 years.
Personality
The Neapolitan Mastiff is a large, powerful dog with a distinct personality. While they are not the easiest breed to train, they are intelligent and loyal dogs that make great family pets. They are typically calm and dignified, but they can also be stubborn and independent. They are protective of their family and home, and they can be aggressive toward strangers. However, with proper socialization and training, Mastinos can be manageable and well-behaved. If you are thinking of getting a Neapolitan Mastiff, be sure to do your research.
Food
When it comes to choosing the right food for your Neapolitan Mastiff, there are a few things you’ll need to keep in mind. First, these dogs need a lot of protein to help them build muscle mass. You’ll also want to choose a food that is high in fat and calories, as these dogs are very active and need the extra energy. And finally, make sure to pick a food that is easy to digest, as the Neapolitan Mastiff breed is prone to stomach infections. Overall, This breed requires a digestible diet that is high in protein and fat which are essential nutrients to maintain their muscular build.
Grooming
The Mastino is a large and imposing dog breed with a proud and regal demeanor. Despite their intimidating appearance, these dogs are actually gentle giants who are great with families. While the Neapolitan Mastiff is not a high-maintenance breed, they do require some special care when it comes to grooming. Because of their large size, they can be difficult to bathe and require regular brushing to prevent matting. This dog is prone to drooling, so you’ll need to wipe their face often and keep their nails trimmed to prevent them from scratching themselves.
Training
The Neapolitan Mastiff is a large, loyal and protective breed of dog, but require obedience training and socialization from a young age to prevent them from becoming too aggressive. They can also be stubborn, so it is important to be consistent in your commands and expectations. These dogs respond best to calm, assertive leadership. Yelling or punishing them will only make them more rebellious and difficult to train. Reward your dog with treats, praise or affection whenever they display good behaviour. This will encourage them to repeat the behaviour in the future. Training a Neapolitan Mastiff can be challenging, but it is important to be patient and consistent in your efforts. With time and patience, you will be able to successfully train your dog.
Health
As with all dog breeds, there are certain health concerns to be aware of. Some of the most common health problems for Neapolitan Mastiffs include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and cancer. It’s important to work with your veterinarian to create a health plan that is right for your dog. This may include regular checkups, vaccinations, and genetic testing. By being proactive about your dog’s health, you can help them enjoy a long and healthy life. They can be expensive to insure than other breeds because of their size and potential health problems, it’s still important to have insurance in case your Mastino develops any health problems.
Botttom Line
The Neapolitan Mastiff is a large, muscular dog breed with a wrinkled face and short, coarse coat. These dogs are known for their loyalty, protective nature, and gentle demeanor. They are also one of the oldest breeds of dogs, with a history dating back to ancient Rome. Today, the Mastino is still a popular breed, thanks to their unique appearance and loving personality.
The Neapolitan Mastiff is not a breed for everyone. The breed is an excellent guard dog and is very protective of its family. The breed is not recommended for first-time dog owners. The Mastino is not recommended for homes with small children. If you are looking for a loyal and loving companion, the Neapolitan Mastiff is the breed for you.
