Large breed
Neapolitan Mastiff Puppies
The Neapolitan mastiff happens to be a giant dog that is very muscular and with a rugged look. It's look is intimidating and makes the dog scared, even though it is known to be calm, loyal, devoted, and protective. The Neapolitan mastiff is commonly used as a guard dog because, though it is faithful to its owners, it can pull down even the strongest of intruders in seconds. Discover more about our Neapolitan Mastiff puppies for sale below!
We do not have Neapolitan Mastiff puppies on the floor today. Tell us what you are looking for and we will let you know the moment one arrives, or help you find a breed that suits your home just as well.
- Exercise 30 min a day
About the Neapolitan Mastiff
The Neapolitan Mastiff is a breed steeped in history, originally developed in Italy as a guardian and protector of estates. Their impressive size and distinctive wrinkles make them stand out, but it is their gentle nature and loyalty that make them truly special. They thrive in a loving family environment, particularly enjoying the company of young children, making them excellent companions for families who can appreciate their affectionate demeanor. While they have a protective instinct, their warmth and patience shine through in everyday interactions.
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Despite their imposing appearance, Neapolitan Mastiffs are relatively low-energy dogs, requiring moderate exercise suited for their size. Daily walks and playtime will keep them happy, but they are not overly demanding in terms of activity levels, making them adaptable to various lifestyles. It is important to remember, however, that they are not particularly well-suited for apartment living due to their size and need for space. Regular grooming sessions will help manage their shedding and keep their coats in good condition, as they benefit from weekly maintenance to minimize loose hair.
Neapolitan Mastiffs are intelligent dogs that are quite trainable, though they can also have a stubborn streak. Consistent and positive reinforcement training methods work best to encourage their willingness to learn and follow commands. Their tendency to bark can vary, so it is essential to provide proper socialization and training early on to ensure they are well-adjusted dogs. Overall, if you are looking to welcome a faithful and protective companion into your home, consider the Neapolitan Mastiff as a wonderful addition to your family. If you want to find one of these affectionate giants, Petland Fort Myers, Florida, can help you connect with a loving pup looking for a forever home.
Neapolitan Mastiff breed profile
Every score below is set by our team for this breed. Higher is simply more of that trait, not better or worse.
Temperament
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Affection Very affectionate
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Playfulness Calm
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With strangers Cautious
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Territorial Territorial
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Prey drive Low
Family & other pets
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Young children With supervision
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Older children Good
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Other dogs Selective
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Cats Needs care
Energy & exercise
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Energy Relaxed
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Mental stimulation Light
Training
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Trainability Takes patience
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Intelligence Bright
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Stubbornness A stubborn streak
Care & upkeep
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Shedding Moderate
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Drooling A drooler
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Barking Moderate
Home life
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Apartment living Needs real space
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Time alone A few hours
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Cold weather Average
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Warm weather Needs shade
A good match for
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First-time owners Some experience helps
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Senior owners Suitable
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Running partner Not suited
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Hiking Short walks
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Therapy work Possible
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Guarding Strong guardian
Living with a Neapolitan Mastiff
History
The Neapolitan mastiff is amongst the oldest and biggest breed of dogs that dates back to 700 BC, during the time of Alexander the Great. In the time past, he had a giant dog that he used as war dogs, which he was able to cross with the short-haired Indian dogs to produce the molossus breed.
He still wasn't satisfied; he decided to cross the molossus with a much larger breed, to create a bigger and intimidating breed called the mastinos. The mastino was used by farmers, in southern Italy. They decided to create another breed similar to mastino, but more friendly and homely.
Which they succeeded in creating and named it after Naples, its city of origin, the Neapolitan mastiff. Today, the Neapolitan mastiff is a treasured dog in Italy, and it is quite expensive to acquire.
Temperament
The Neapolitan mastiff is a watchdog as well as a guard dog, and it is very protective. The dog is a patient dog and not overactive. Like a loyal dog, it is content to sit at his master's feet. But when necessary or if it notices an intruder, it can cover an ample space within a short time because it is speedy.
It happens to be a very courageous dog with an even temperament. It is not aggressive, but it is very protective of the people and property under its watch.
You need to keep introducing it to your visitors until it knows them. It also never accepts food from strangers, and it is one breed that can never be bribed.
Environment
The Neapolitan mastiff doesn't need an ample outdoor space like most active dogs. But it needs a spacious living space that would be convenient for its massive body.
The house should be spacious enough, so it doesn't bump into things. and if possible, stairs should be limited, so it doesn't develop joint problems. It is quite natural for these breeds to overheat, and are most likely not suitable for hot climate. During such a period, try to provide them with cold water and sufficient shade that will block out the heat completely.
Exercise
Every dog deserves to be exercised, but not in the same manner. Most dogs are allowed to run, play, twist, and turn as part of their exercise, but the same cannot be said for the Neapolitan mastiff breeds.
Due to their large body and the fact that they quickly overheat, the best exercise for them is a gentle walk. They shouldn't be allowed to run, so they don't get injured or too tired, it isn't good for them.
Grooming
The Neapolitan mastiff is easy to maintain, all they need is occasional bathing, and they are good. Try cleaning their ears, nose, and mouth occasionally as well, and due to the folds and excess skin on their faces, you need to always have a damp cloth with you when they eat. Their face and chest will be messed up after each meal, but a gentle wipe will do. Check their nails often and cut them if overgrown.
Our Neapolitan Mastiff puppies for sale come from either licensed commercial breeders or hobby breeders with no more than 5 breeding mothers. Licensed commercial breeders account for less than 20% of all breeders in the country.
The unregulated breeders who are selling outside of the regulations and without a license are what we consider to be “Puppy Mills.” We are committed to offering Neapolitan Mastiff puppies who will grow up to become important members of your family. We only purchase puppies from the very best sources, and we stand behind every puppy we sell.
Caring for a Neapolitan Mastiff
- Grooming
- Weekly brushing
- Grooming cost
- Average
- Monthly food
- High
- Outdoor space
- A yard is recommended
- Allergy friendly
- Not considered hypoallergenic
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Neapolitan Mastiff shed a lot?
The Neapolitan mastiff doesn't shed a great deal. They only shed their fur occasionally, and it is limited. But a little help is needed during their shedding period by helping them brush their coat, this way the shedding will be controlled.
Do Neapolitan Mastiff drool a lot?
Yes, these breeds are known for drooling a lot and all the time. Their drooling increases after their meal.
What is Neapolitan Mastiffs lifespan?
The Neapolitan mastiff has an average lifespan of about seven to ten years. But with proper care, nutrition, and maintenance, they can live longer than ten years.
What are the Neapolitan Mastiffs most common health issues?
Due to their excess skin and weight, the most common health issues they have are arthritis, hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, bloat, cherry eyes, cardiomyopathy, hypothyroidism, progressive retinal atrophy, etc.
Are Neapolitan Mastiffs lazy?
The Neapolitan mastiffs may seem like a lazy breed because they love to sleep or lie at their master's feet, but they can spring into action at the slightest provocation.
Do Neapolitan Mastiffs bark a lot?
These breeds don't bark a lot. They only bark when they want to draw the attention of their owners, or when they notice anything suspicious while looking after their home.
How much exercise do Neapolitan Mastiffs need daily?
They need little exercise daily for their mental and physical well being. A short walk around the neighborhood or in an open park where they can move freely is perfect for them. But if it's a high-temperature day, then exercising should be avoided.
Can Neapolitan Mastiffs be left alone for a long time in a day?
No, the Neapolitan mastiff shouldn't be left alone, because they can get bored and frustrated and develop bad habits. Like chewing furniture, barking unnecessarily, and other destructive habits.
