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Breed Standard General Appearance An ancient breed, rediscovered in Italy in the 1940's, the Neapolitan Mastiff is a heavy-boned, massive, awe inspiring dog bred for use as a guard and defender of owner and property. He is characterized by loose skin, over his entire body, abundant, hanging wrinkles and folds on the head and a voluminous dewlap. The essence of the Neapolitan is his bestial appearance, astounding head and imposing size and attitude. Due to his massive structure, his characteristic movement is rolling and lumbering, not elegant or showy. ~ Read More ~ |
Breed History The Neapolitan Mastiff is an estate guard dog from Italy. The breed traces its roots to the dogs of war used by the Roman Army. The breed then existed on estates and farms across Italy for the past two millennia, known as the"big dog of the little man" -- the extraordinary dog of the ordinary man. After the devastation of World War II, the breed was recognized as an unquestionable treasure of Italy and consequently, has been refined to its present form over the past 60 years. A standard was first written in 1948, later re-written for greater precision in 1971, and the Neapolitan Mastiff has thus claimed its rightful place among the international world of dogs. ~ Read More ~ |
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Health and Basic Care Being “owned” by a Neapolitan Mastiff is a joy and a big responsibility. From choosing your puppy or dog, to selecting a Veterinarian, and providing a safe environment for your Neo, his health and welfare depend on you. Find out simple and practical advice for many common Neapolitan Mastiff health concerns, symptoms and illnesses as well as breed studies currently underway by the health committee. ~ Read More ~ |
Temperament and Training The following is not intended as a comprehensive coverage of every temperament issue or training scenario that may occur. This is merely a general guide. As a Neapolitan Mastiff owner, you have selected a guardian breed - one that is steady and loyal to his owner. He is not aggressive or apt to bite without reason. He is a true guardian of his property and to the family entrusted to him. His attitude is calm, yet cautious, and he is majestic and powerful. He is always watchful and does not take pleasure in strangers who intrude into his personal space. ~ Read More ~ |
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What to Look for in a Neapolitan Mastiff Selecting a purebred dog from a responsible breeder requires the buyer to do his or her homework first before purchasing. Do not buy a puppy of any sort if your partner is not in agreement with or is half hearted about the purchase. The whole family must want and be totally committed to getting a Neapolitan Mastiff. ~ Read More ~ |
Puppy Socialization What happens in a very short time frame can impact your mastino for the rest of its life. Ultimately, the first few weeks of your pup arriving home will shape his learning and development! Make these weeks count by following some guidelines and using the tips at hand. ~ Read More ~ |
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Why Not A Neapolitan Mastiff? To anyone seriously considering acquiring a Neapolitan mastiff, no sales job is needed. Their devotion is unmatched, and if you like the look, nothing else will do! However, as a group dedicated to finding forever homes for this breed, we have an obligation to point out some characteristics that when not understood and properly managed, frequently lead to these dogs needing rehoming in the first place. Although of course, as in any breed, there is variation in temperament, the following issues come up frequently enough to warrant mentioning. ~ Read More ~ |
Books and Resources The following is a list of books favored by Neapolitan Mastiff enthusiasts. As this list grows, we'll begin pointing you directly to websites at which you can purchase these books. Several of them are out of print but come available from time to time on Ebay. ~Read More ~ |