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Breed Information: Neapolitan Mastiff
Neapolitan Mastiff - Mastino Napoletano - Molossi - Mastino Italiano
The Mastino of Italy is believed to be a direct descendant of the dogs used to fight in the Roman gladiator arenas, with its roots at the giant war dogs of the Assyrians. The breed has survived in the region of Naples in the south of Italy, but it is clear that it does not look like the Mastino of today. When judging pictures from the late 1800's and the early 1900's, it can easily be seen that the pre-Mastino was no at all so large and extreme as today. Even the most enthusiastic Mastino lover has to agree that the current version of the breed was developed in the 1900's.
According to Mastino fanciers, the Romans adopted the Molossus dogs of Greece, making the breed their own. When the Romans invaded Britain, they got access to even greater wardogs, who easily defeated their own. The Mastiff of Britain was then cross into the Roman dog, making it the ultimate wardog. The standard of the Mastino was not set before 1948, but the breed was first exhibited two years earlier and recognized by the FCI in 1949. Dr. Piero Scanzian, who set the breed standard, purchased various type stocks from breeders in the Naples region and started a breeding program. This made him regarded as the Father of the Modern Mastino.
The Mastino's type is a result of years of inbreeding, creating its wrinkles, loose skin and enormous bone, especially seen in the "Zaccaro" type-distinctly heavy, short legged and with an exceptionally strong head. The powerful body is carried by legs with enormous bone; often the legs have wrinkles too. This all over massive dog is protective as a guard dog and the sight of an angry Mastino in front of you should be taken seriously. Strangers should beware. The breed is nevertheless peaceful, even in temperament and devoted to it's human family. Neos sleep a lot, like many other large Molossers, but can get on their feet incredibly fast and investigate the environment with no fear when necessary.
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Is the Neapolitan Mastiff the Right Breed for You?
Owning a Neapolitan Mastiff can be the beginning of a wonderful relationship with years of happiness. Neos are loving, slobbery, gentle giants. They are among the giants of the dog breeds, and can range in size from 24-30 inches at the shoulder with a weight from 140-180 pounds, with some variations allowed.
Why do I want a Neapolitan Mastiff?
Neapolitan Mastiffs are wonderful companions. They are NOT dogs that should be left outside chained to a doghouse or left alone in a fenced yard. They desperately need lots of human companionship to be properly socialized, trained and owned. If your house is too small for a very large dog, then a Neo is not the right dog for you. We have found serious behavior problems in Neos that were not a member of the family, but were instead relegated to the backyard with only occasional human contact.
Neos slobber, some more than others, but all do after they eat or drink or after heavy play or activity. Be prepared to acquire a new point of view regarding slobber. Are you prepared to wash your walls, ceilings, etc. after the slobber flies when they shake their heads? Slobber rags must always be handy in strategic locations!
Neos WILL snore. Are you a light sleeper, or one who needs quiet to fall asleep? If so, consider another breed. They will want to sleep in the same room as you. And watch outÉthey can be amazingly agile at 2:00 a.m.
Neos are NOT attack dogs. These dogs will guard their house, but they protect their family by mere presence, their size, and their look, and their bark will scare away the bravest of burglars. If youthe dog and let someone in the house, the Neo should accept that person.
Neos are generally good with children, but a giant clumsy dog is not a good combination for smaller children.
Neos are territorial dogs. They will protect their yard, house, car, and family from people or dogs. They can be very good around other dogs and cats, as long as they have been raised with them and have good experience with them. If you already have an adult male dog, for example, you might want to consider a female rescue or vice versa.
Can I really afford to keep a Neapolitan Mastiff?
An adult male Neo can eat 40-70 pounds of food per month. That's roughly $35-70 in food per month alone. Because of their size, a Neo will cost you more at the vet's office too. Heartworm costs more, shots can be more. You can expect to spend approximately $200-500 per year at the vet's office (and sometimes more, depending on age, medical condition and luck).
What about exercise?
Exercising a Neo is not difficult. A Neo is happy to go on two walks a day of about 20-30 minutes each. Some love to hike and swim, but jogging companions they are not! They should not be asked to jog as it can be very difficult on their joints. About a mile or so walk twice a day is enough; older dogs somewhat less. Walks can be around the neighborhood, hikes in the forest or chasing a soccer ball. A couch may be the Neo's favorite spot, but exercise will help him or her live longer!
Neapolitan Mastiff Facts:
| Life Expectancy: |
10 years |
| Colors: |
Grey (also referred to as Blue), Black, Tawny and Mohogany. All colors may have brindle. White is acceptable on the tips of the toes and chest. |
| Coat Type: |
Short, hard and shiny |
| Grooming Needs: |
2-3 times a week |
| Exercise Needs: |
Needs about 30-60 minutes per day |
| Temperament: |
Balanced, protective of human family |
Good with Children: |
Affectionate and protective with its family's children |
| Avg Size: |
25.5-30 inches (males) and 23.5-27 inches (female) |
| Avg Weight (lbs.): |
150-185 (males) and 145-165 (females) |
| Health Issues: |
Cherry eye is common in the breed, must be removed, and not tacked down. A good diet is paramount for this fast growing large breed. Prone to bloat, so should be fed 2-3 smaller meals per day. Also prone to joint problems. |
| Living Conditions: |
Prefers to be close to family, whether that is outside or in the house |
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