THE NEAPOLITAN MASTIFF
info@riverbottomneos.com
BOSQUE FARMS, NEW MEXICO
THE NEAPOLITAN MASTIFF:AN ANCIENT AND MAJESTIC BREED
His dark, ancient past as a war dog, the Mastino today is known as a protector of his family and home. He is
courageous but not vicious.
Loyal and loving to thier owner's, preffering thier master's company above all else, with a disposition that is
always watchful and does not relish intrusion by strangers into his personal space. He is calm, yet wary, but in
the show ring he is majestic and powerful,
THE NEAPOLITAN MASTIFF IS NOT FOR EVERYONE
HE REQUIRES LOTS OF LOVE, CARE AND ATTENTION.
The Neapolitan Mastiff are large, powerful dogs, with a significantly wrinkled head, and a serious demeanor.
The most important image evoked by the Neapolitan Mastiff is it's Massive head, massive bone, massive
body. A typical Mastino male is 26-29 inches at the shoulder and weighs 140-170 pounds. A Mastino female is
somewhat smaller. While not as tall as the English Mastiff, the body often appears to be more massive.
The Neapolitan Mastiff is a working dog, originally bred and utilized as a guardian and defender of owner and
property. Although originally bred as a protection dog the Mastino has a steady temperament and is loyal, not
outwardly aggressive or apt to bite without reason. Do not confuse the Neapolitan Mastiff with a fighting breed.
If you are considering purchasing a Mastino with this thought in mind you will find him far too humble for he
would rather spend his time by your side pleasing you. The Neapolitan Mastiff or, Mastino is certainly not a dog
for everyone but you could not ask for a more faithful companion.
WHY A NEAPOLITAN MASTIFF?
is it really the breed for you and your family
Study your lifestyle, your family, your dog expierence and your bank account
Neapolitans are not active dogs, if your lifestyle includes jogging,cycling or hiking and you want a dog to accompany you- buy another
breed. Mastinos are slow, lumbering large beasts with only limited energy for play-usually in the cooler hours of the morning and
evening. Certainly an occasional walk is acceptable, but never to the point of exertion. They have bursts of energy for strong play, and
enjoy their freedom. Puppies especially must never be pushed in exercise, they are best left to their own schedule of play or active time.
Despite his fierce appearance and warring history, the Neapolitan can be a good family companion, but not for everyone. This breed
stands well apart from other breeds, he is for experienced dog owners only. A badly raised and handled Neo could be very dangerous.
Realize that this is a strong powerful dog who's ancestors were there to be manstoppers. Never play rough with your pup and never try to
get him to "protect" you in a "game". He may love you (if you have been good to him) but he is strong enough to knock you down and
out. His teeth are sharp, his jaws terribly powerful. Take ownership of this ancient dog very seriously.
Take your pup everywhere with you (after completing full immunizations), meeting new people/dogs/things will open up his confidence
and stimulate his mind. Working with the pup in his manner instills that he respects your decision, but you must never let him become
afraid or angry in these lessons. You are teaching him to trust and respect you.
They are not what would (or should) be called "aggressive", they are protective. It is up to you, the owner, to ensure that they
understand when it is okay (and required) NOT to be protective. Physical strength of a man means nothing to this dog. Psychological
control is the only option.
Because of the Mastino's fast growth rate one can forget that they are still only puppies at 5-6 months. Like any large breed great care
has to be taken up until the age of 9-12 months when they become more robust. Undue exertion of a pup can cause irreparable
damage to the joints and young bones.
The sheer size of the dog represents larger vet bills should he require medical attention (outside of normal shots and wormings). Be
certain that you can afford this breed's day to day costs. Your food bill will be higher than most other breeds, especially as a growing
pup.
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Site designed by Vickie @ Riverbottom Neo's.
Reccomended books to read:
The Official Book of the Neapolitan Mastiff
The Neapolitan Mastiff
The Ultimate Book of Mastiff Breeds
The world of Fighting Dogs
The BullMastiff and Mastiff Handbook