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. When searching for a responsible breeder you may want to start with the Parent Club organization or you may want to go to a few dog shows and meet the owners and their dogs and ask questions. Such as how many years have they been breeding, showing, and would you be able to visit their facility where the dogs live? You would want to be able to see where and how the dogs are treated on a day to day basis.

ALL breeds have their drawbacks, and you should be aware of these before taking on the responsibility of owning an animal that is going to grow rather quickly meaning BIG. So be sure your living space will be able to accommodate such a large breed. Also take into consideration feeding bills and Veterinary bills. And by the way when a Neo shakes its head, slobber may end up on all four walls. And given a chance they will prefer your favorite arm chair or sofa.


Pet or Show?

Most newcomers start off by saying they want a pet, but will quite often start to get interested in the breed. It is suggested you join a local breed club or Parent Club and attend a few confirmation shows. Be clear that if you buy a show quality prospect pup the price may be higher than a pet, but you should always try to get as good a puppy as you can afford- good in both type and temperament. If buying a show quality Neapolitan Mastiff you will first want to acquire a copy of the Neapolitan Mastiff Breed Standard. The USNMC Parent Club would be your source to contact for one. Read the breed standard several times. If later on you may find that your dog is not quite up to the required standard do not feel badly; beauty is in the eye of the beholder and your neo should not be loved any less.


Male or Female?

Whether you choose a male or a female it is a matter of personal preference. Be clear that the male is larger and more imposing and stronger than the female. The bitch tends to be gentler in nature and may be a little more affectionate. Bitches are more responsive than males and keep in mind that the female will come into season. If there are no plans for breeding and showing than you will want to have her spayed. Same applies for a male, if not used for breeding or showing than neuter him. As far as children are concerned, it depends on how well behaved your children are with dogs. The female seems a bit more tolerant of children. Males can be somewhat less interested. But both will rise to the occasion if provoked.

Ask the breeder if you may see the parents of the puppy you are considering. Ask if they show their dogs or do they just breed. Ask the breeder if has the puppy been wormed and if the puppy has been vaccinated. Depending on the age that you collect your puppy, normally between 8 and 10 weeks of age vaccinations should have been given to cover them for the first few weeks that they are in their new home. When the time comes for you to pick up your puppy you should be given a sheet that states what the puppy is currently being fed, a pedigree and if possible, the AKC registration form. Also remember to be sure that you are given a health certificate from the breeder showing that a licensed Veterinarian has signed it stating that your puppy is in good health.  When you pick him/her up. Never be tempted to take one that is not 100 percent fit and well. If you pay the utmost attention to detail before buying you can save yourself much heartache later on.