Neapolitan Mastiff – character, disposition, price

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In this article we will explore the dog breed – Neapolitan Mastiff. We will provide a detailed description and appearance of this impressive breed, you will learn about its temperament characteristics and how to properly train and raise the Neapolitan Mastiff. We will also discuss for whom this breed is suitable and what are the advantages and disadvantages associated with it. There will be no shortage of information on health, diseases and proper grooming. In addition, we will go deep into the history of the Neapolitan Mastiff and talk about its breed pattern and interesting facts related to it.

Neapolitan Mastiff – description and appearance of the breed

The Neapolitan Mastiff is an impressive dog, which with its appearance attracts the attention of even the most uninterested. Characteristic features of this breed are a huge head, round eyes and large, hanging ears. Their coat is short and smooth, usually in gray, black, mahogany or brindle colors. Neapolitan Mastiffs are real giants – males can weigh up to 70 kg, and females up to 60 kg.

Character of the Neapolitan Mastiff dog breed

Skills – what should you know?

Neapolitan Mastiffs are very intelligent, strong and sturdy dogs. They are known for their excellent defensive skills. They have a natural ability to protect their territory and family, which makes them excellent guard dogs.

What kind of personality does it have?

The Neapolitan Mastiff is a loyal, kind and calm dog. Despite their imposing appearance, they are surprisingly gentle and calm at home. They enjoy the company of people and are very devoted to their families.

Neapolitan Mastiff – how to train and raise?

Training a Neapolitan Mastiff can be a challenge due to their size and natural defensive instincts. They require consistent and patient training, but with the right motivation and positive methods they are capable of learning many skills

Who is the Neapolitan Mastiff suitable for?

Neapolitan Mastiffs are best for experienced dog owners who can handle their size, temperament and grooming needs. They are ideal as family dogs who appreciate the company of their loved ones.

Neapolitan Mastiff – price

The price for a puppy depends on many factors, including the reputation of the kennel and the quality of the pedigree. The average price for a Neapolitan Mastiff puppy in Poland is about 4000-5000 zlotys.

Advantages and disadvantages

Disadvantages

Neapolitan Mastiffs, like all breeds, have their disadvantages. Due to their large size, they can suffer from various health problems, including hip and elbow dysplasia. They also require a lot of exercise and mental stimulation.

Advantages

Nevertheless, there are many advantages to owning a Neapolitan Mastiff. They are dedicated, intelligent and extremely loyal dogs. They are great guard dogs and social dogs that are perfect for homes with children.

Neapolitan Mastiff – Health, diseases and grooming

Nutrition

Due to their size, Neapolitan Mastiffs have high nutritional needs. It is important to provide them with the right quality food to ensure proper development and maintain their health.

Care

Neapolitan Mastiffs require regular grooming, including brushing, ear cleaning and dental care.

Diseases

They are prone to common diseases of large breeds, such as hip dysplasia, heart disease and skin problems.

Accessories and equipment or how to prepare for this breed?

Preparing for a Neapolitan Mastiff is a challenging task. You need a large enough bed for the dog, a strong leash and muzzle, as well as various toys for chewing and playing.

History of the Neapolitan Mastiff dog breed

Origins

The origins of the Neapolitan Mastiff date back to antiquity and are closely linked to the history of Italy. The ancestors of these giant dogs are descended from molos – ancient fighting dogs that were used by the Romans in battles. These dogs were characterized by great strength, courage and steadfastness, which made them excellent soldiers.

Development of the breed

For centuries, Neapolitan Mastiffs were bred primarily as guard dogs to defend farms, estates and people from intruders. However, the breed endured many hardships, including medieval wars that contributed to a significant reduction in the number of these dogs.

In the 19th century, thanks to the efforts of an Italian breeder named Piero Scanziani, the Neapolitan Mastiff breed gained popularity. Scanziani, who was also a painter and writer, began breeding Neapolitan Mastiffs, focusing primarily on their appearance. He wanted these dogs to resemble the ancient sculptures of molosses that were present in many ancient frescoes and sculptures. Thanks to his efforts, the Neapolitan Mastiff gained its characteristic silhouette of today.

Currently

Today, the Neapolitan Mastiff is prized both for its extraordinary beauty and for its steadfast character. These dogs are popular all over the world, especially in Italy, where they are considered a national treasure.

Although Neapolitan Mastiffs are often associated with their imposing appearance, they are also well-known and respected guard dogs. Their natural courage and strong protective instinct make them excellent watchdogs, capable of defending their owners in any situation.

Dog pattern of the Neapolitan Mastiff breed

The Neapolitan Mastiff is unique not only because of its impressive size, but also because of its unusual appearance, which sets it apart from other breeds. According to the breed standard established by the International Kennel Federation (FCI), the Neapolitan Mastiff is a dog with a strong and powerful build, which at the same time shows great grace and elegance.

The head of the dog of this breed is very large and massive, with clearly defined muscles. The muzzle is wide and deep, with strong jaws and a set of large, white teeth. The eyes are large and round, always dark in color, and the ears are medium-sized and pendulous, placed high on the head.

The Neapolitan Mastiff’s body is long, strong and muscular, with a broad chest and well-defined forechest. The back is straight and broad, and the tail is long, thick-set and reaching to the hocks.

The legs are strong and muscular, with large paws. According to the standard, the Neapolitan Mastiff should move freely and smoothly, with visible drive in the hindquarters.

The Neapolitan Mastiff’s coat is short, smooth and close-fitting. All shades of gray (Italian “blu”), black and mahogany are allowed. Small white markings are also possible, but they are less desirable.

The Neapolitan Mastiff is a breed that impresses with its majestic appearance and powerful proportions, while maintaining a high degree of elegance and distinction. This breed pattern is considered ideal, emphasizing not only the physical attributes of the dog, but also its character and temperament.

Neapolitan Mastiff – interesting facts about the breed

The Neapolitan Mastiff, despite its impressive appearance and size, is a breed full of surprises and curiosities that attract many dog lovers around the world.

  1. One of the oldest breeds: Neapolitan Mastiffs are one of the oldest dog breeds in the world. Their ancestors, the ancient molosser dogs, were already known in ancient Roman times, where they served as fighting dogs.
  2. Deep voice: Despite their calm temperament, Neapolitan Mastiffs are known for their very deep and loud barking, which is effective in warding off intruders.
  3. Excellent guard dogs: Thanks to their natural defensive instinct, Neapolitan Mastiffs are excellent guard dogs. They can respond decisively to danger while being extremely loyal and devoted to their family.
  4. Movie stars: Neapolitan Mastiffs have appeared in many movies and TV series, thanks to their unique and impressive appearance. One of the most famous is Fang, Hagrid’s dog from the Harry Potter film series.
  5. Unique wrinkles: A distinctive feature of the Neapolitan Mastiff is a generous, wrinkled body, especially visible on the head, neck and chest. These wrinkles add definition to the dog and are one of the key elements of the breed standard.
  6. Neapolitan Mastiff a national treasure of Italy: Italians are very proud of their Neapolitan Mastiffs and consider them a true national treasure. These dogs are often present in local culture and art, and their image is inextricably linked to Italian tradition and history.

Emily Carter is an experienced pet enthusiast and writer, with over a decade of experience caring for and working with animals. From her early days volunteering at animal shelters to becoming a pet care advisor, Emily has dedicated her life to understanding the unique needs of pets and helping pet owners provide the best possible care for their furry companions. She is especially passionate about topics like pet nutrition, behavior, training, and animal welfare.

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