History of the Neapolitan Mastiff
The Neapolitan Mastiff boasts an ancient lineage, tracing back to a time when these massive dogs were revered as guardians. Originating in Italy, particularly around the region of Naples, the Mastino Napoletano has been a symbol of strength and loyalty for centuries.
The breed’s ancestors are believed to have been used in Roman arenas, showcasing their prowess against fierce adversaries. They were also employed as war dogs, equipped with spiked collars before being sent into battle. Their intimidating presence and formidable strength made them ideal for such missions, but they were also valued as companions, offering protection and companionship to soldiers and people of high society.
After the fall of the Roman Empire, the Neapolitan Mastiff continued to serve as a guard dog, protecting homes and estates. They were especially prevalent in the Italian countryside, where their imposing size and vigilant nature deterred intruders and safeguarded livestock.
The modern Neo was developed in the post-World War II era when the breed was nearly extinct. A group of dedicated Italian breeders, led by Piero Scanziani, set out to revive the breed, standardizing both its appearance and its temperament. Scanziani’s efforts led to the breed’s official recognition by the Ente Nazionale della Cinofilia Italiana (ENCI) in 1949.
Internationally, the Neapolitan Mastiff gained recognition in other countries and began to be appreciated for its noble character and impressive appearance. The breed was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 2004, marking its acceptance into the Working Group.
Today, the Neapolitan Mastiff is celebrated not only for its historical significance but also for its role as a devoted family member and protector of hearth and home. While the Neo is a rare sight compared to more commonly encountered breeds, its impact on those who choose to support the it can be profound, embodying the legacy of an ancient lineage that continues to inspire awe and respect today.
General Appearance
Height & Weight
Adult male Neapolitan Mastiffs typically stand between 26 and 31 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh around 150 pounds. Females are slightly smaller, with heights ranging from 24 to 29 inches and a typical weight of around 110 pounds.
Proportion & Substance
Proportion and substance are critical aspects of the Neapolitan Mastiff’s general appearance, emphasizing the breed’s robust and muscular build. The body length is typically 10 to 15 percent greater than the height at the withers, providing a slightly rectangular profile. The breed’s substantial frame is evident in the large, well-rounded bones which contribute to the overall impression of strength and power.
The Neapolitan Mastiff’s substantial body mass is well distributed, providing balance and contributing to the breed’s impressive physical presence. Despite their size, Neos should exhibit fluid and effortless movement, reflecting their capabilities as effective guardians. The breed’s overall substance should never compromise its agility or endurance, illustrating a harmonious balance between power and functionality.
Coat Texture, Colors & Markings
Texture: The coat of the Neapolitan Mastiff is short, dense, and smooth. The hair is straight lies close to the body, being no more than one inch in length and without any fringe. The coat’s texture serves a functional purpose, providing protection against the elements and resistance from minor abrasions. The coat is uniform all over the body, enhancing the breed’s dignified appearance while requiring minimal grooming.
Neapolitan Mastiff Colors
|
Standard Color |
| Blue |
ee |
| Black |
ee |
| Mahogany |
ee |
| Tawny |
ee |
A Note About Color: The solid-colored coat may be either gray (blue), black, mahogany, or tawny, all in lighter and darker shades. Some brindling is allowable in all colors and, when present, it must be tan (reverse brindle). Solid white markings can appear on the throat area from chin to chest, the chest, the underside of the body, the penis sheath, the backs of the pasterns, and on the toes. White hairs may appear at the back of the wrists, but should not be found on any other part of the body.
Neapolitan Mastiff Markings
|
Standard Marking |
| Brindle Markings |
ee |
Head
- Skull: The skull of the Neapolitan Mastiff is large in proportion to the body and is broad and flat between the ears. There is a very well-defined stop that forms a right angle to the junction of the muzzle. The skin on the skull is abundant, forming excessive wrinkles and folds that are particularly pronounced when the dog is alert. There is an ample dewlap.
- Expression: The Neo’s expression is reflective of its demeanor—wistful at rest, intimidating when alert. The gaze is penetrating and thoughtful, indicative of the breed’s attentive nature.
- Eyes: The medium-sized eyes are set deep and well apart. They are almost hidden beneath drooping upper lids. The lower lids reveal the haw. The eyes are either amber or brown to harmonize with the coat, and the eye rims are the same color as the coat. There should be no evidence of ectropion or entropion.
- Ears: The Neapolitan Mastiff’s ears are set well above the cheekbones and may be either natural or cropped, depending on the owner’s preference or local laws. When natural, they are medium-sized, triangular, and lie flat against the cheeks. When cropped, they appear as equilateral triangles.
- Muzzle: The muzzle is broad and deep, with a length that is approximately one-third the total length of the head. It is well-filled under the eyes and maintains its breadth to the end, with a straight nasal bridge that contributes to the breed’s resolute expression. The upper lips form the lower, outer borders of the muzzle, with corners that turn outward to reveal the flews.
- Nose: The nose is large, with well-opened nostrils that allow for effective respiration. It is an extension of the muzzle’s topline and its color is the same as the color of the coat.
- Bite: The Neapolitan Mastiff has a complete set of strong, white teeth that meet in a scissors or pincer bite. A slightly undershot bite is acceptable. The jaws are powerful, reflecting the breed’s utility as a guardian and its historical role as a loyal and able defender.
Tail
The tail of the Neapolitan Mastiff is set on slightly lower than the topline, emerging as a natural continuation of the spine. It is thick at the base and tapers towards the tip, carried either straight or slightly curved in a “S” shape. The tail hangs down when the dog is relaxed, but when the dog is active, the tail is raised to the horizontal or a little higher than the back.
The Neapolitan Mastiff’s tail is a distinctive breed feature and should never docked. It should not have any kinks and should not be less than one-third the length from the point of its insertion to the hock joint. The tail should never be carried upward or curved over the back.
The Neapolitan Mastiff – What to Consider?
The Neapolitan Mastiff, renowned for its impressive stature and protective nature, is a breed esteemed by those seeking a faithful (if frightening) guardian. Welcoming such a dog into the home demands an understanding of the breed’s unique needs and behaviors. Ownership entails a dedication to creating a supportive environment that cultivates a deep bond with the dog, alongside readiness to manage its considerable size and strength. It also involves a commitment to comprehensive training and socialization to nurture a courteous and affable member of the family.
Home Life
Interaction With Family
The level of affection a breed typically shows towards family members and familiar individuals will vary. While some breeds may only show genuine warmth towards their owner, remaining standoffish with strangers, other breeds will treat everyone they meet as if they are their closest friend.
Independent Affectionate
Good With Other Dogs
The innate friendliness of a dog towards other dogs can depend on its breed. Although supervision is always recommended during introductions, certain breeds tend to be inherently more or less sociable with other dogs, whether in a home setting or in public spaces.
Not Recommended Reliable With Other Dogs
Good With Young Children
The degree to which a breed will typically be patient with young children, and its overall suitability as a family member, will vary. It is important to always supervise interactions between dogs and the kids in the house, as well as with children who are not accustomed to being around dogs.
Not Recommended Dependable With Children
Upkeep
Amount Of Shedding
The amount of hair that a dog sheds will typically depend on its breed. Heavy-shedding breeds require more frequent brushing, have a higher chance of activating specific allergies, and often necessitate more frequent use of the vacuum cleaner and lint rollers.
Low High
Frequency Of Grooming
The regularity with which a breed needs bathing, brushing, trimming, or other forms of coat care is an all-important consideration. When evaluating the grooming effort required, consider your available time, patience, and budget. It is important to note that all breeds need routine ear, teeth, and nail care.
Monthly Daily
Amount Of Drooling
The tendency of a breed to drool significantly varies from breed to breed. For those who prefer cleanliness or are particular about keeping things tidy, breeds that are likely to leave trails of drool on your arm or large slobbery marks on your clothing and furniture might not be the best fit.
Low High
Coat Type
smooth
wiry
hairless
rough
corded
double
curly
wavy
sikly
Behavior
Acceptance Of New People
The likelihood of a breed to be friendly towards strangers will vary. While some breeds may consistently exhibit reserve or caution around unfamiliar people, regardless of the setting, others are often eager to greet and interact with any new person they meet.
Reserved Outgoing
Protective Nature
The propensity of a dog to notify you of the presence of strangers is breed-dependent. Some breeds are more inclined to respond to any perceived threat, be it the mailman or a squirrel outside the window. However, most breeds are generally more accepting of strangers who are welcomed by their human family members.
Minimal Interest Maximum Vigilance
Playfulness Level
The likelihood of a breed remaining playful beyond puppyhood will vary. Certain breeds retain their enthusiasm for activities like tug-of-war or games of fetch well into their adult years, whereas others are more content to simply lounge on the sofa with you for the majority of time.
Low High
Adaptability Level
The ease with which a breed can adapt to changes in its environment can vary greatly. This adaptability encompasses how well a breed is likely to cope with alterations to its home and yard, noise levels, weather conditions, daily routines, and other fluctuations in everyday life.
Low High
Personality
Trainability Level
The ease with which a dog can be trained and its eagerness to learn new skills can depend on the breed. Some breeds are naturally inclined to please their owners and will readily accept training, while others tend to follow their own desires, often showing independence in how, when, and where they choose to do things.
Stubborn Eager
Barking Level
The frequency of vocalization, including barking and howling, will vary from breed to breed. Some may bark at each person who passes by and every bird in the sky, while others will typically bark only for a good reason. Additionally, a few breeds that do not typically bark will still be vocal, using different sounds to communicate.
Quiet Vocal
Energy Level
The level of physical exercise and mental engagement required will depend on the breed. High-energy breeds are always on the go. They are enthusiastic about their next activity and tend to be busy most of the time, running, jumping, and playing throughout the day. In contrast, low-energy breeds are akin to couch potatoes, content to just lounge around and take naps throughout the day.
Couch Potato Busybody
Need For Mental Stimulation
The extent of mental stimulation needed to keep a dog content and healthy will vary by breed. Dogs bred for specific purposes may need tasks involving decision-making, problem-solving, and concentration. Without sufficient mental exercise, these dogs can resort to creating their own activities to engage their minds, resulting in unwanted behaviors like chewing, digging, and escaping.
Minimal Engagement Intensive Interaction
Neapolitan Mastiff Health
The Neapolitan Mastiff is generally a healthy breed, but potential owners should be aware of the health challenges that can affect these dogs. It is imperative to engage with reputable breeders who conduct health screenings and to establish a relationship with a veterinarian who is experienced in caring for large breeds.
The Neo has a life expectancy of around 7 to 9 years. To promote a long and healthy life, these dogs require vigilant veterinary care, encompassing regular check-ups, preventive measures, and prompt attention to any emerging health issue.
Potential Health Risks
The Neapolitan Mastiff can be prone to certain health risks for which owners of the breed should be vigilant. These include:
- Hip Dysplasia: This condition involves the improper fit of the thigh bone in the hip joint, leading to pain and potential mobility issues. Timely detection and management are crucial for maintaining quality of life.
- Elbow Dysplasia: Similar to hip dysplasia, this condition affects the elbow joint, causing pain and discomfort, affecting the dog’s mobility.
- Skin Conditions: The breed’s characteristic wrinkles necessitate regular cleaning to prevent dermatitis and infections.
- Gastric Torsion (Bloat): A critical condition where the stomach twists on itself, bloat requires immediate veterinary intervention to prevent life-threatening complications.
- Cherry Eye: This refers to a prolapse of the third eyelid’s gland, potentially requiring surgical correction.
- Cardiomyopathy: Heart issues can be significant in Neo, warranting early and regular cardiovascular assessments to detect and address any problem.
- Osteosarcoma: Being a large breed, the Neapolitan Mastiff has a higher predisposition to this type of bone cancer, necessitating awareness and prompt action when symptoms are present.
Consistent veterinary exams are essential for the early detection and management of any health issue. Preventive care, especially targeted screenings for joints, heart, and eyes, combined with regular health and wellness checks-ups, can significantly contribute to the well-being and longevity of a Neapolitan Mastiff.
Neapolitan Mastiff Personality
Understanding the personality of the Neapolitan Mastiff is essential for anyone who is considering this breed as a companion. Neos exhibit a calm and watchful demeanor, but they are always alert to their surroundings and ready to act as guardians in times of need. Renowned for their loyalty and protective nature, these dogs are deeply devoted and form strong bonds with their human families.
While their size and appearance might suggest a formidable nature, Neapolitan Mastiffs are known for their gentle and affectionate temperament, especially towards family members. However, their protective instincts can make them wary of strangers, emphasizing the need for proper socialization from a young age to foster confidence and ensure they are well-adjusted as adults.
Neos are typically not suited for novice owners due to the breed’s size and strength. These dogs require a handler who understands giant breeds and can provide clear, consistent guidance and training. When it comes to other dogs and household pets, the Neo can coexist peacefully, provided it has been properly socialized. Interactions with young children should always be supervised, not due to any aggression but to prevent accidental injury given the dog’s massive size.
The Neapolitan Mastiff’s sensitivity to its owner’s emotions makes this a responsive and empathetic breed, one that is capable of providing not just protection but also loving companionship. While Neos are not excessively demanding in terms of attention, they do thrive on being part of family activities and should not be left alone for prolonged periods.
Neapolitan Mastiff Feeding & Nutrition
The dietary needs of a Neapolitan Mastiff are as substantial as the dog’s physique is imposing, necessitating a careful approach to nutrition that can support overall health and well-being. Feeding a Neo appropriately involves consideration of the dog’s age, weight, energy level, and any specific health requirements. A balanced diet rich in nutrients is vital for maintaining robust health, supporting bone and joint health, and sustaining good muscle tone.
For Neapolitan Mastiff puppies, the diet should support their rapid growth without accelerating it unduly, as too rapid growth can contribute to skeletal problems and joint issues later in life. Puppy food that’s formulated for large breeds is recommended, divided into several meals throughout the day to support development and prevent critical health issues such as bloat.
Given the Neo’s prolonged growth period, transitioning to adult food should be done gradually at around 18 to 24 months of age. Adult Neapolitan Mastiffs require a diet that will maintain body condition without leading to obesity, which can exacerbate health issues like hip dysplasia. The amount of food, often measured in cups, varies based on the dog’s size and activity level, but typically, an adult dog may consume between 6 to 8 cups of dry food daily, divided into two meals.
Monitoring the Mastiff’s weight and body condition is crucial, adjusting the amount of food as needed to avoid weight gain or loss. To prevent obesity, treats should be given sparingly and should be accounted for in the dog’s daily intake of calories.
Access to fresh drinking water at all times is essential, particularly for a breed that can be prone to dehydration and overheating. Lastly, consulting with a veterinarian can provide guidance that is tailored to the individual needs of the Neapolitan Mastiff, ensuring the diet supports a long and healthy life.
Neapolitan Mastiff Training
Training a Neapolitan Mastiff is an essential aspect of the dog’s care, one that is pivotal for nurturing a well-behaved and sociable companion. Given the breed’s size, strength, and protective nature, early and consistent training is crucial to harness the Neo’s potential to become a gentle giant. Initiating training from puppyhood, emphasizing socialization, basic obedience, and good manners, will lay the foundation for a well-adjusted adult mastiff.
Despite their imposing presence, Neapolitan Mastiffs are sensitive animals that are responsive to positive reinforcement techniques. Harsh methods can undermine their trust and hinder their learning, so patience and consistency are key. These giants respond well to reward-based training, where praise and treats encourage the desired behaviors.
Socialization is particularly critical for this breed. Exposing these dogs to various people, environments, animals, and situations will cultivate confidence and reduce wariness or fearfulness. This exposure helps to mitigate the breed’s natural guardedness, enabling the Neo to discern between normal and threatening scenarios.
Neapolitan Mastiffs possess an independent streak, which can be mistaken for stubbornness, especially during training sessions. Short, engaging, and positive training sessions help to maintain focus and interest, facilitating better learning and retention. Intelligence and the desire to please their owners mean most Neos can excel in training, but they do require owners who are clear, consistent, and assertive in their commands and expectations.
Training extends beyond basic obedience, encompassing behaviors that promote safety and sociability. Teaching the Neapolitan Mastiff to walk nicely on a leash, refrain from jumping up, and respond reliably to commands like “come,” “sit,” “stay,” and “leave it” are crucial for managing such a large dog.
Neapolitan Mastiff Exercise
To ensure the Neapolitan Mastiff’s physical and mental well-being, exercise is a crucial component of its daily routine. While these dogs are not as high-energy as some other breeds, they do require regular, moderate exercise to maintain their health, manage their weight, and stimulate their minds. Developing an exercise routine that suits each dog’s size and energy level is key to keeping the Neo happy and healthy.
Exercise Expectations
| Energy Level |
Low to Moderate |
| Exercise Requirements |
1 Hour/Day (Minimum), Daily Walks, Vigorous Running, Regular Exercise, Mental Stimulation |
A Neapolitan Mastiff’s exercise regimen should be carefully considered to avoid overexertion, especially throughout the puppy years when bones and joints are still developing. Gentle walks, preferably twice a day, provide not only physical exercise but also opportunities for mental stimulation and socialization. These walks should be on a leash and at a pace that is comfortable for the dog, allowing the Neo to safely explore its environment.
In addition to daily walks, Neapolitan Mastiffs benefit from having a secure area where they can roam freely and play. Play sessions, however, should be monitored to prevent the dog from over-exerting itself, especially in hot weather, as the breed can be prone to overheating. Interactive play that promotes bonding, such as gentle tug-of-war or fetch with an appropriate-sized toy, can also be beneficial for providing both physical activity and mental engagement.
It is important to remember that exercise needs will vary based on the individual Neo’s health, age, and energy level. Younger and more active mastiffs may require longer or more frequent walks, while older dogs may need shorter, more leisurely strolls. It’s essential to always provide fresh drinking water following exercise sessions to prevent dehydration. And during the warmer months, walks should happen during the cooler parts of the day to avoid heat exhaustion.
Consistent, appropriately paced exercise will help the Neapolitan Mastiff maintain muscle tone, prevent obesity, reduce boredom, and mitigate potential behavior problems. It’s also a wonderful way to strengthen the bond between the Neo and its favorite person, offering shared experiences that are enjoyable and enriching for both.
Neapolitan Mastiff Grooming
Grooming a Neapolitan Mastiff is an essential aspect of care, crucial not only for maintaining the dog’s appearance but also for its overall health and comfort. Despite having a short coat, this breed requires regular grooming due to its size, skin folds, and tendency to drool.
Grooming Expectations
| Coat Type |
Short, Smooth, Dense |
| Grooming Requirements |
Weekly Brushing, Occasional Bathing, Routine Ear Cleaning, Recurring Inspection of the Skin Folds, Periodic Nail Trimming, Regular Tooth Brushing |
The coat of the Neapolitan Mastiff is relatively low maintenance compared to long-haired breeds. However, the breed does require regular brushing, at least once a week, to remove loose hair, distribute natural skin oils, and keep the coat shiny and healthy. During shedding seasons, more frequent brushing may be necessary to manage the increased hair loss.
Bathing a Neapolitan Mastiff should be done sparingly, but only when necessary to avoid stripping the skin of its natural oils. When bathing is required, it’s essential to use a mild dog shampoo and make sure the dog is thoroughly rinsed and dried afterward, particularly within the skin folds.
Speaking of skin folds, these distinctive features of the Neapolitan Mastiff require special attention to prevent infection or irritation. The folds should be checked and cleaned regularly with a damp cloth, followed by thorough drying to keep the areas clean and moisture-free.
Nail care is another crucial aspect of grooming. The mastiff’s nails should be trimmed regularly to prevent overgrowth, which can lead to discomfort and even difficulty walking. Ear care is also important; the ears should be checked weekly for signs of infection or wax buildup and cleaned as needed.
Dental care should not be overlooked, as good oral hygiene is vital for overall health. Regular tooth brushing, along with providing dental chews or toys, can help to maintain healthy teeth and gums, and mitigate bad breath and excessive drooling.
Living with a Neapolitan Mastiff
Living with a Neapolitan Mastiff is a unique and rewarding experience that requires understanding of, and adapting to, the breed’s specific needs. As gentle giants, these dogs thrive in environments where they are part of the family, receiving love and attention while also having their own space respected.
Accommodating a Neo in the home means providing sufficient space for the dog to move about comfortably. Despite the breed’s large size, these dogs are relatively indoor-friendly, often preferring to stay close to their family members. However, they do need a comfortable and spacious area to rest, away from high-traffic zones, so that they can relax without being constantly disturbed.
When considering outdoor space, a fenced yard is ideal for the Neapolitan Mastiff. A secure outdoor space provides a safe area to explore and lounge, although supervision is recommended, especially in warmer weather. These dogs can be sensitive to extreme temperatures; hence, it’s crucial to provide adequate shade and shelter when they’re outside, as well as access to fresh water at all times.
Living arrangements should also account for this mastiff’s drooling, especially after eating or drinking, and for the shedding. A regular cleaning routine will help to manage these aspects of the dog’s care, contributing to a more pleasant living environment for everyone living in the house.
In terms of adaptability to changes in the weather, the Neo can live in most environments but it does best in moderate climates. The breed’s thick skin offers some protection against the cold, but these dogs should not be left outside when the temperature hovers around freezing. Similarly, their tolerance for heat is limited; during hot days, it’s vital to keep them cool and avoid undue exercise.
Integrating a Neapolitan Mastiff into the home also means considering the dog’s interaction with visitors and other pets. Early socialization is key to teaching good manners and will encourage the dog to be welcoming of guests and coexist peacefully with other animals in the house.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are Neapolitan Mastiffs aggressive?
Neapolitan Mastiffs are not inherently aggressive; they are known for their loyal and protective nature towards their family. However, like any dog, their behavior significantly depends on proper socialization and training, and on the environment in which they are raised. They have a strong guarding instinct, which can be perceived as aggression if they cannot distinguish between normal and threatening situations.
Are Neapolitan Mastiffs dangerous?
Neapolitan Mastiffs are imposing dogs due to their size and strength, but they are not inherently dangerous. Responsible ownership, including proper training and socialization, is crucial to ensure that a Neo is well-behaved. These dogs are protective and may act to defend their family members, so early and continuous training is essential.
Are Neapolitan Mastiffs good family dogs?
Yes, Neapolitan Mastiffs can make excellent family dogs as they are known for their deep devotion and protective nature towards those they love. They are particularly gentle and patient with children in the home. However, due to their size, interactions with small children should always be supervised to prevent accidental injuries.
Are Neapolitan Mastiffs good for first-time owners?
Neapolitan Mastiffs are generally not recommended for first-time dog owners due to their large size, strength, and specific needs in terms of training and socialization. They require an owner who understands and can manage a large breed, ensuring they are well-behaved and adequately socialized. Prospective owners should be prepared to commit time and resources to provide proper training and care.
Are Neapolitan Mastiffs good guard dogs?
Neapolitan Mastiffs are excellent guard dogs. They are naturally protective and wary of strangers, making them vigilant protectors of the home and family. Their imposing presence and deep loyalty mean they are likely to intervene if they perceive a threat. However, to make sure they react appropriately, they should be trained to understand what constitutes a real threat.
Are Neapolitan Mastiffs good with other dogs?
Neapolitan Mastiffs can get along with other dogs, especially if they are raised together and properly socialized from a young age. However, their interaction with other dogs should always be supervised, particularly with unfamiliar dogs, to prevent any dominance or territorial behaviors.
Can Neapolitan Mastiffs swim?
While Neapolitan Mastiffs can learn to swim, they are not known to be natural swimmers and may not particularly enjoy water activities. Caution should be exercised when introducing a Neo to water, and the dog should never be forced to swim. If swimming is introduced, it is important that it’s done in a safe, controlled environment with a life vest for additional safety.
Do Neapolitan Mastiffs drool?
Yes, Neapolitan Mastiffs are known to drool, especially after eating or drinking. Due to their loose, hanging lips and jowls, owners should be prepared for regular cleanup and may even want to keep towels handy to manage the Neo’s drool. This will help to maintain cleanliness throughout the home as well as around the dog’s eating area.
Do Neapolitan Mastiffs shed?
Neapolitan Mastiffs do shed, but their short coat means the shedding is relatively minimal compared to many long-haired breeds. Brushing can help to manage the hair loss and will maintain the coat’s condition. This is especially important given the breed’s wrinkled skin. Regular grooming is beneficial for both the dog’s hygiene and household cleanliness.
How long do Neapolitan Mastiffs live?
Neapolitan Mastiffs typically have a lifespan of 7 to 9 years. Like all large and giant breeds, their life expectancy is generally shorter than that of smaller dogs. Providing a healthy diet, regular veterinary care, appropriate exercise, and a loving environment can help these grotesque and glorious mastiffs live a full and happy life.
