Neapolitan Mastiff
OVERVIEW OF THE NEAPOLITAN MASTIFF
The Neapolitan Mastiff is an ancient breed of dog originally used to guard property in what is now central Italy. The breed may date back as far as 700 BC, as per artifacts from several ancient civilizations that look a lot like the canines of a Mastiff. Two millennia later, in 1947, this breed was first recognized, and then, in 1956, received full acceptance from the Federation Cynologique Internationale.
Mastinos are known for their massive size and ferocious temperament and are still used today as guard dogs. We’ve got the muscular physique of this dog to thank for this large size.
Draping these muscles is a short coat that is usually brindle in color but can also be tawny, black, or mahogany. This breed has a distinctive saddle pattern on its back and facial markings that resemble a mustache and beard. They are the heaviest dog breed, often weighing over 150 pounds and up to 31 inches in height.
The Neapolitan Mastiff is gentle and loyal to their family. They are also super protective of their territory and make great guard dogs. Their alert and aware nature further add to this guardian quality.
The temperament of a Neapolitan Mastiff can best be described as powerful and protective. These dogs are not typically recommended for families with small children, as they may unintentionally hurt them. So, you must never leave your Mastiff with the young ones in the house unsupervised.
That said, if you have older children who can handle themselves around a big dog and you provide the necessary training and space, the Neapolitan Mastiff can be a loyal and loving family pet.
This training has to be full of positive reinforcement and patience. It should also be complemented with ample space to thrive. Consistency is key here, and trust us, in no time you’ll have a ball of fur who will always be by your side.
NEAPOLITAN MASTIFF FOOD AND HEALTH
The Neapolitan Mastiff is a large breed with medium energy levels, so feeding them a diet tailored to their specific needs is essential. A good diet for a Neapolitan Mastiff should include high-quality fat, less protein, and plenty of fresh water.
It’s also vital to ensure the dog’s diet is balanced and contains all the nutrients they need to stay healthy. Natural Balance fat dog food is an excellent option if you’re in the market for fat-rich dog food for your Neo. Also, speak to your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns about your Neapolitan Mastiff’s diet.
The Neapolitan Mastiff is a breed that is known to gain weight quickly, so you must be mindful of how much you are feeding them. It is best to measure their food and feed them twice a day rather than leave food out all the time. This will help keep them in good shape.
Some common allergies in Neapolitan Mastiffs are pollen, mold, and dust. They can also have skin allergies called “atopy”, which make their skin itchy. Symptoms of atopy typically start between the ages of one and three and can worsen as your pooch grows old. The most common signs of atopy in dogs are licking the paws, rubbing the face, and frequent ear infections.
As far as the medical conditions go, Neapolitan Mastiffs are prone to hip dysplasia, demodicosis, and cardiomyopathy. Minor concerns include “cherry eye” and elbow dysplasia.
Hip dysplasia is a condition in which the hip joint does not fit snugly into its socket. This can cause pain and lameness in the affected leg. There is no cure for hip dysplasia, but many treatments can provide relief for older dogs and prevent further damage in puppies. Maintaining a healthy diet and exercise routine is one of the most important things you can do for a Mastiff with this condition.
Elbow dysplasia is also a common condition in Neapolitan Mastiffs. The symptoms of this bone disorder can include painful lameness, and the disease is often heritable. There is no cure for elbow dysplasia, but there are ways to help manage the condition. Treatment options may include physical therapy, pain relief medications, and surgery in severe cases.
Cardiomyopathy is a heart condition that affects Neapolitan Mastiffs. Here, the heart muscle becomes very thin and is unable to contract normally. This makes the pup’s heart work harder and as a result, it enlarges. Dogs with this condition exhibit indicators of heart failure, such as weakness, loss of appetite, weight loss, depression, collapsing, difficulty breathing, a mild cough, and an expanded abdomen. They also have an irregular cardiac rhythm. Cardiomyopathy cannot be cured; however, temporary relief can be obtained by rest, nutrition, and medicine.
Cherry eye is a relatively common condition among Neapolitan Mastiffs. It is caused when the gland located in the dog’s third eyelid bulges out and becomes visible. The most common symptoms are a reddened mass at the inner corner of the eye and excessive tearing. Cherry eye can be cured surgically, although there is a small risk of infection.
Demodicosis is an inflammatory skin disease caused by the Demodex mite. This mite is a tiny, cigar-shaped creature that lives in the hair follicles of all dogs. Most dogs have no problem with these mites, but in some cases, they can cause skin inflammation and hair loss. The most common symptoms of demodicosis are red, scaly skin patches with hair loss. In severe cases, the dog may lose all its hair. This disease usually clears up on its own, but in some cases, it may require treatment from a veterinarian. Treatment options include topical medications and antibiotics.
LEASHES AND COLLARS FOR YOUR NEAPOLITAN MASTIFF
There are many different leashes and collars for Neapolitan Mastiffs. You will want to choose a harness that fits well and is comfortable for your dog. Ensure the collar is adjustable and fits snugly but not too tightly. A leash is also crucial in keeping your dog safe, so choose one that is sturdy and will not snap under pressure.
Neapolitan Mastiffs are a big and strong dog breed and can pull on the leash if not harnessed correctly. Harnesses distribute the force from the leash over a larger area of the dog’s body, making it less likely that your Neo will pull.
Many types of harnesses are available, so you must research and find one that is best suited for your Neapolitan Mastiffs’ size, shape, and personality. This Big Dog Harness is a great way to go if you’re looking for a lightweight and sturdy harness to keep your bulky Neo safe.
The type of collar you choose for your Mastiff will depend on their personality and activity level. A basic nylon collar should be fine if your dog is lazy and doesn’t get into trouble. If your dog is an active pup who likes to explore though, you’ll need a stronger collar that can withstand more wear and tear. A leather or spiked collar might be a good option for these dogs. Whichever type of collar you choose, ensure it’s comfortable for your dog and fits appropriately.
A leash is an essential tool for walking your Neapolitan Mastiff. Not only does it keep your dog safe by preventing them from wandering off, but it also gives you control over their movements. When choosing a leash for your Neapolitan Mastiff, it’s crucial to select one that is strong and durable enough to handle the doggo’s weight. A retractable leash is a good option, as it allows you to give your dog more freedom of movement without having to worry about them running away.
BEST CRATES, BEDS, AND DOG HOUSES FOR NEAPOLITAN MASTIFFS
The Neapolitan Mastiff is an ambivert because they have both introverted and extroverted tendencies. They generally do well with a crate because they like their own space, but they also enjoy being around people.
A crate can be a valuable training tool — it provides your dog with a designated space of their own where they can rest and relax without worrying about being in trouble. A good crate can help you teach your Neapolitan Mastiff the rules of the house, making life easier for both of you.
Regarding crates for Neapolitan Mastiffs, one thing to consider is size — your dog should have plenty of space to move around but not much extra space. An expandable crate is a good option because it grows with your dog. You don’t have to keep buying new crates as your dog gets bigger; you can just adjust the size of the crate as he does.
Neapolitan Mastiffs love to lounge around on the couch, so you may want to consider getting them a similar dog bed in style and comfort. A Furhaven Orthopedic Dog Bed will be perfect for your giant breed Neo and will help keep it warm and cozy.
Whether or not to get a dog house for a Neapolitan Mastiff is a personal decision. Some people feel extra shelter is necessary to protect the dog from the elements, while others believe it will be fine without it. We believe that, as long as the mastiff has access to a sheltered area where it can go to escape bad weather, a dog house is not necessarily needed. The mastiff is a hearty breed and can withstand most temperatures if given enough time to adjust.
NEAPOLITAN MASTIFF TOYS
When choosing suitable toys for your Neapolitan Mastiff, you must consider their personality and strength. Some dogs may prefer softer toys, while others may enjoy playing with something a little more durable.
Finding a suitable toy that will keep your dog entertained and engaged is essential. One of the best types of toys for a Neapolitan Mastiff is a ball or Frisbee. These toys are perfect for dogs who love to play fetch. They can also help strengthen your dog’s muscles and provide some exercise. If you’re in the market for a fetch toy for your Neo, this Durable Rubber Disc is an option worth checking out.
GROOMING INSIGHTS FOR NEAPOLITAN MASTIFF OWNERS
Keeping your Neapolitan Mastiff’s wrinkles clean is vital for their health and appearance. You’ll need to brush them weekly and give special attention to the wrinkles and folds in their skin. Keep them dry and free of dirt, drool, and other debris. This will help prevent infection and keep your dog looking its best. Also, check your Neo’s skin folds and wrinkles to see if they need cleaning. Wipe them out with a damp cloth, then thoroughly dry the skin inside the folds.
Grooming your Neapolitan Mastiff’s teeth is key to maintaining their dental hygiene. Brush their teeth at least twice a week to remove tartar buildup and the accompanying bacteria. You can also use a toothbrush designed for dogs or a human toothbrush if you wet it first, so it’s not too abrasive.
Examining your Neapolitan Mastiff’s ears is also important. Clean their ears regularly with a cotton ball and pet-safe ear cleaner to help prevent infection and keep their ears healthy. Also, brush your Neapolitan Mastiff’s coat regularly to keep it looking its best. This will help keep shedding to a minimum.
Bathing too often can dry out their skin, so it’s best to bathe them only when needed. Their coat is short and dense, so it doesn’t need much attention. You may only need to bathe them twice a month or so.
Neapolitan Mastiffs are particularly susceptible to fleas, as they have a dense coat of hair that provides an ideal environment for pests. Flea treatment for Neapolitan Mastiffs typically involves topical or oral medications and regular cleaning and grooming of the dog’s fur. If you want to get rid of fleas on your Neo’s coat, check out this Solimo Flea Treatment. Consult your vet before using it for your Mastiff, though.
NEAPOLITAN MASTIFF ACCESSORIES
A Neapolitan Mastiff needs a lot of exercise and room to run, so make sure you have a big backyard or enough time to take your dog for walks. They also need plenty of training, so start early and be consistent. Some suitable accessories for a Neapolitan Mastiff are a sturdy collar and leash, a good quality food and water bowl, and a comfortable bed or crate.
You may also want to invest in toys to entertain your dog, like a rubber ball or a chew toy. And lastly, make sure you have some supplies on hand in case of accidents, like paper towels, shampoo, and carpet cleaner.