Neapolitan Mastiff Dog Breed Information

Neapolitan Mastiff dog was bred in ancient times to protect its family and it is incredibly loyal and devoted to its family. These breeds are great guard dogs and are not gentle giants as well. They are affectionate with their family but are suspicious of strangers and tolerant of acquaintances.

The Neapolitan Mastiff dog was purposefully bred in order to scare away intruders without the dog having to act. Its giant muscular body can knock down almost any intruder. Its huge head with short, powerful jaws and large teeth can crush an opponent.

Origin and History

Neapolitan Mastiff is a direct descendent of the Molussus, the ancient mammoth war dogs of the Middle East. It is first and foremost a working breed, whose purposes are gently varied. It has been primarily a farm helper, also serving as a herding dog, flock protector, cattle drover, cart dog, large game hunting dog, and personal protection dog.

In the year 1990, the American Neapolitan Mastiff Association and the United States Neapolitan Mastiff club were formed. The American Kennel Club recognized this breed in 2004 AD. Today it ranks 112^th among the 155 breeds and varieties registered by the AKC.

Are Neapolitan Mastiff Child Friendly?

It’s not that Neapolitan Mastiff dogs are not child-friendly but because of their size they are not good and safe around toddlers. They will be best suited for home who have older children who probably knows how to handle them. Teach your child not to make too much noise and shout around Neos, they might get excited and become rough players.

Neapolitan Mastiff may tend to protect the children from other kids especially if they see any kind of wrestling is involved while playing. They love their play-mate but can be quite reserved with other children. So, it is necessary you socialize your Neos at an early age with every one including other animals.

Behavior, Temperament And Personality

The Neapolitan Mastiff are quiet, watchful and protective of its family. They are giant and is their muscular body is enough to scare an intruder without even barking or being aggressive. They are not aggressive dogs in fact, these dogs have a heart of gold.

They are quite independent dogs, but prefer spending time with their family. Neos are very possessive and may not like the interference of any unknown person in the family circle. These dogs are affectionate but will likely to dominate the people to rise in the position. Neapolitan Mastiffs are fearless and independent and have a strong mind of their own. They like to do things on their own in their own time. However, they are obedient to their family members.

Trainability

Neapolitan Mastiffs can be dangerous if they are not properly trained at a young age. They can be quiet challenging while training. These breeds tend to be dominant and stubborn to commands, that’s why firm leadership and consistent training is a must. Patience is the key while training a Neapolitan Mastiffs.

Neapolitan Mastiffs should be introduced to many people and places so that they don’t get suspicious of anything and anybody.

Some Facts About Neapolitan Mastiffs

• Neapolitan Mastiffs that died in during the war were given full military honors and burials.
• A Neapolitan Mastiff named Tia broke the world record by giving birth to twenty four litters back in 2005.

Health Issues

It is important to be awared of the following health issues if you have Neapolitan Mastiff at home:

• Hip Dysplasia: It is a condition in which the thighbone does not fit into the hip joint. Because Neapolitan are large sized dogs, they are prone to hip dysplasia while they age.
• Elbow Dysplasia: It is caused by the different growth rates of the three bones that make up the dog’s elbow.
• Cardiomyopathy: It is a condition in which the heart muscle becomes very thin and is unable to contract normally.
• Cherry Eye: It is a eye disorder in which the gland located in the dog’s third eyelid bulges out.

Different Color Patterns

Neapolitan Mastiffs are found in following different colors:

• Black
• Brindle
• Tawny
• Blue
• Mahogany

Puppies

Neapolitan Mastiff can give birth to 3 to 4 puppies.

Cost Of Neapolitan Mastiff Puppies

The average cost of the Neapolitan Mastiff puppy is about $2,300 USD.

Size

Neapolitan Mastiff weighs up to 110 – 150 pounds.

The male Neapolitan Mastiff stands up to 26 to 30 inches whereas, the females stands till 24 to 28 inches.

Which Dog Breed Are Neapolitan Mastiffs Similar To?

Some of the dogs breed similar to Neapolitan Mastiff dogs are as follows:

• Bullmastiff
• Cane Corso
• Mastiff
• Dogue de Bordeaux

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