Mastino Neapolitano is a dog that combines a formidable appearance and friendliness. In the article I will give her description, talk about the difficulties of maintenance and care. I will consider its distinctive features. I will analyze the rules of care and training.
Description breed dogs Mastino Neapolitano
Canine experts argue about the origin of the dog, and about who was its ancestor. Most scholars say that their ancestors were Tibetan mastiffs, from which the Neapolitans are essentially distinguished only by the coat. Someone claims that they are descendants of the fighting dogs of ancient Rome.
In any case, it is assumed that the breed is quite ancient. However, the first written mention of Neapolitano Mastino refers only to the middle of the 20th century.
The ancestor of the selection of Neapolitan mastiffs is considered to be Italian Pietro Scanziani. He presented the first representatives of this breed at the exhibition of 1946. The first breed standard was approved in 1949, but since then the exterior of dogs has continued to change.
The breed standard that is in force today was adopted only in 1999. It has the following distinctive features of the dog:
- torso muscular and powerful, body length more than height,
- head massive with a wide skull
- muzzle square shape with lots of folds and thick hanging cheeks,
- nose big black
- eyes almond-shaped, brown, deep-set,
- ears thick, hang, were stopped before, today, stopping is not common,
- tail thick at the base, resembles a saber in shape, used to also stop by a quarter, today it is forbidden for show animals,
- wool short, in bitches has a silky structure, in males - more rigid, no undercoat.
Mastino Neapolitano is a dog of impressive size.Acceptable colors - black, blue, gray, mahogany, the shade between the fawn and gray called izabella, tigrovina appears in all colors. There may be white markings on the chest, paws and abdomen.
The size is pretty impressive. Height at withers - 60-75 cm, weight - 50-70 kg.
Rules for the maintenance and care of the Neapolitan Mastiff
The dog can be kept both in the apartment and in the house. The absence of a molt makes the dog content quite comfortable. The only thing that it is quite large, so when choosing this breed, you should make sure that both she and all family members have enough space in the same territory.
Street content is not permissible. Do not tolerate any cold weather or open sunlight in the heat. It is enough to comb them 1-2 times a week with a soft brush.
Special care require numerous folds. They need to be inspected daily and cleaned of dirt and food residue. Otherwise, the probability of rotting and infection of the skin.
Too frequent bathing is not recommended. In bad weather, the factory owners advise to wear protective overalls.
Ears and teeth are cleaned every few days. Claws, if they do not grind themselves, are cut once every 3-4 weeks.
Eyes should be carefully examined and cleaned every two to three days. Otherwise, the drooping eyelids may become inflamed. Also, mastiffs have excessive salivation. Hanging saliva should be regularly cleaned with napkins.
It requires long walking and heavy physical exertion.
Neapolitan mastiffs are unpretentious in food, they have a good appetite, and there are no problems with the work of the gastrointestinal tract. Veterinarians recommend for feeding balanced dry food of premium class and higher. Feeding natural food is also possible. The main thing is to choose the right balanced diet for your pet.
The first thing that distinguishes these dogs is attachment to one person. He chooses his master and prefers him to the rest of the household, although he behaves extremely friendly with them. To strangers is suspicious.
Mastino is an excellent watchman, he is ready to protect both his territory and his beloved people from impending danger.
These dogs are very playful, regardless of age. They love space and active games. Mastiff is very calm and resistant to stress and change. Barking rarely, only in extreme cases.
Breed is considered very clever and quick-witted. These dogs are sometimes chosen as service dogs, and also they successfully cope with the work of a guide.
Mastino Neapolitano is jealous. He will not share the owner with other animals. It is also not recommended to start this animal in families with babies.
Training
This dog is not recommended to beginners. Up to 2 years she will try to show dominance. Only a person with leadership qualities and exceptional perseverance can properly educate her.
In the case of a well-constructed workout, the mastiff will try to please the owner, and the lessons will turn into joy for both the owner and the pet.
Physical punishment in the case of learning the Neapolitan Mastiff is unacceptable. The dog is offended and loses confidence in the owner.
Socialization and the initial education of Mastino Neapolitano need to start as early as possible. Otherwise, a huge unmanaged machine will grow out of it.
These dogs do not have a long life and require careful monitoring of their health. The breed involves several hereditary ailments:
- the large size of the dog provokes joint problems, especially with improper feeding,
- heart disease, manifested mostly in adulthood,
- skin diseases
- allergy,
- eye disease with unfair care.
The main symptom of any disease is apathy and refusal to eat. In this case, an urgent need to call the vet!
To prevent diseases, it is necessary to do timely vaccination of the animal, as well as to conduct preventive examinations of the dog at the veterinarian.
You also need to remember about the need for proper nutrition and careful care of the skin and eyes of the mastiff.
How much is a puppy
It is recommended to acquire a mastino puppy neapolitano only from a trusted breeder in the kennel, and not by an ad with hands.
The cost of a pedigree puppy of a show class with a pedigree in Russia starts at 30,000–40,000 rubles. In the US, the price tag comes to $ 2,500.
Buy kids pet class for use as a guard dog or pet can be a little cheaper. Their cost will be about 20 000-25 000 rubles.
It is recommended to buy a puppy mastino neapolitano only from a trusted breeder.
Large nurseries, where you can buy good kids:
- Fire of live (Moscow),
- Larga Pav (Moscow),
- Magic Impair (Nizhny Novgorod),
- Anvira (St. Petersburg),
- Mastino (Izhevsk),
- Vita Shamo (St. Petersburg),
- My dogs (Novosibirsk).
Breeding characteristics
If you wish to happen to your pet, an amateur dog breeder is advised to ask for help at the nursery where the dog was purchased. Experienced breeders will take a decent couple to a pet, as well as tell about all the nuances of the process of mating, pregnancy and childbirth.
The main difficulty in breeding puppies will be the large size of the dog and litters from 4 or more puppies. The owner needs to think in advance where the babies will be placed.
Mastino Neapolitano is a friendly giant dog. She will become a true family member with proper upbringing. However, homebody, beginners, families with small children or other pets start it is not recommended. This breed is perfect for active, self-confident dog breeders with experience.
History reference
It is believed that the Neapolitano Mastino came from the Mastiff, which, in turn, was a descendant of the huge Molossas that have become extinct today. These ferocious, frightening by one of their kind, dogs were a combat unit in the army of Xerxes as far back as the 5th century. BC e.
One of the rocks, descended from the formidable Molossi received the name Mastiff from massivius (large, massive). According to another version, Mastino is named for masuetinus, which means "tamed" or "submissive." The ancient Assyrian bas-reliefs next to the warriors depict huge mastiff-shaped dogs, clad in armor.
In the war against the Persians, Alexander the Great applied about 50 ferocious dogs, outwardly similar to the Neapolitan mastiff. But still in the 1st c. BC e. The Britons used combat prammastifof in battles against the Roman conquerors. Later, huge dogs were kept for the protection of livestock, property, and hunting. Chaotic interbreeding and lack of selection would have led Mastino to disappear, as well as his ancestor, if not for Pietro Scanziani, an artist and a dog trainer who lived in the outskirts of Rome.
In the middle of the twentieth century. Pietro Scanziani at the exhibition saw one of the 8 Mastinos presented in the out-of-competition show. After 3 years, Scanziani received a model dog, from which the breed standards were written off. They were approved in 1949, but since the standard was adopted without checking the physical and performance characteristics, it was refined for a long time, and the breed improved. The final version was adopted at the end of the twentieth century.
Description breed mastino Neapolitano
Neapolitan one of the biggest dogs. In the top ranking, he is in 12th place, behind Alabayam, divers, Pyrenean, English, Spanish and Tibetan mastiffs, Great Dane. Powerful wide bones covered with strong muscles.
The dog is well built, but since it has a large weight (male 60-70 kg, female 50-60 kg) and significant the size (height at withers for males is 65-75 cm, and for females 60-68 cm.), somewhat clumsy, but has the plasticity of a big cat:
- Torso strong, stocky, somewhat elongated. Its length is 10% greater than the height at the withers.
- Thick loose skin forms characteristic folds not only on the dog's head, but throughout the body, which indicates the dog's fighting past. Strong relief muscles roll under the loose “hanging” skin.
- From the protruding withers, the line of the back smoothly goes down and rises to the waist. The broad back ends with a thick at the base and a tail coming to the end. It is saber bent, sometimes it is stopped by 1/3.
- Skull massive, has a wide front part of the cheekbones, with a high, broad forehead, covered with folds. The transition to the nose is pronounced. On the sides of the wide nose and lower edge of the eye, skin folds hang down, merging with a plumb bottom of the neck. They are parallel and well expressed.
- Lips large, fleshy. The outer corners are open and the mucous is visible. Jaws strong, well developed, wide with a full set of white, even teeth. Both scissor and pincer-type clamping are allowed.
- Eyes deep set and partially hidden by folds, which gives the face of a mastino a sad look. Their color is somewhat darker than coat color.
- Ears hanging, due to the large size of the skull seem small. The auricle is thick, set high, the hanging edge tightly adjoins the lateral surface of the cheeks. Can be cropped.
- The neck is thick, short, covered with folds of skin. Suspension pronounced, double, but not excessive. The stomach is picked up, the suspension is obligatory at the bottom of the body.
- Limbs powerful, equipped with strong muscles, smooth, located in parallel. The length of the shoulder and forearm of the front paws is almost the same. The hind legs are equipped with long hocks. On the foot of the hind legs dewclaws should be removed.
Mastino movements are somewhat slow, resembling the steps of a large lion. When moving at a trot, the dog strongly repels by its hind legs and throws it in front of the front. Less commonly, mastino can move with amble and very rarely go into a gallop.
Mastino colors
Short hair tight to the skin, the same across the surface of the body. The bitches are soft, giving a velvety feeling when touched. In males - tough. The color is various - gray, dark gray, gray-fawn (isabella), blue, black, mahogany or tan.
Vertical stripes of a darker color, so-called tigrovins, are marked against the general background. They are required. Small white spots on the chest and at the bases of the fingers are allowed.
Pet character
Much has been written about the character of the Neapolitan. The Italian Terre, who lived in the 19th century, characterized it succinctly, briefly, in a capacious manner. He compared this powerful handsome with Hercules, noting his strength and nobility. But, despite the frightening appearance, Mastino have immense devotion to the owner and the willingness to protect him even at the cost of his life.
In the ruins of Pompeii, scientists have found material evidence of this - pouring cavities in the lava with gypsum, they obtained the impressions of the bodies of the inhabitants of the deceased city. One of these casts was a huge mastino, which with its body defended its little master from the flow of lava and hot ashes. A collar with engraving was found nearby. They learned from her that a bitch named Delta had already saved her master Severinus from a pack of wolves.
Mastino Neapolitano rely not only on its strength. Owners and breeders celebrate the mind of these dogs, the rare sensitivity and "consonance" of the owner's mood. Mastino is an ideal guard and defender, but, nevertheless, he will never pounce on an opponent weaker than himself or showing no aggression.
The dog is somewhat lazy, he likes to soak up the house on his stove bench, but also willingly runs around the house to check if everything is in order. He loves when they pay attention, caress. Without attention the dog becomes gloomy and depressed. The past centuries, in close contact with man, have shaped the need for his presence in the life of a mastino. The dog, left alone for a long time, begins to howl or outrageously.
Mastino from an early age is necessary socialization. Without the skills to communicate with people and animals, the dog can grow aggressive or shy. Proper upbringing will emphasize and develop the best traits of the Neapolitan's character - courage, friendliness, patience, loyalty, restraint.
Mastino is constantly on the alert. He vigilantly follows the interlocutor of the owner and does not allow the invasion of his comfort zone, conversations in high tones, and sharp gestures. He “closes” his host with his body, demanding to maintain distance and calm. Mastino is not jealous and applies to all family members. He does not like when, during a walk, "his family" disperses and tries to gather everyone to guard and watch.
There are legends about the sixth sense inherent in the dogs of this breed. Mastino feels perfectly well who treats his hosts kindly and who is an enemy and a bad person. Intentions and attitudes cannot be hidden from insightful mastino. Even the puppy feels it. Some breeders donate a puppy only to the one he chose, which further strengthens the contact between the dog and his guardian.
See also other shorthair dog breeds.
The history of the breed and the birthplace of mastiffs
Breed Neapolitan Mastiff known since ancient times. The first mention of it refers to the period of Alexander the Great's conquests, when the conquered Indian king presented him with two large dogs, which are considered to be the ancestors of the current mastiffs.
In addition, in ancient bas-reliefs in Persia and Nineveh, images of animals resembling these giants can be found. And in Europe, dogs got into the first centuries of the New Era along with other valuable goods that were brought to the mainland by Phoenician traders.
It is believed that modern mastiffs are descendants of dogs that performed in the arenas of ancient Rome. And also in those days, ordinary citizens held them in their farmsteads as watchdogs.
Breeders began to engage in breeding animals of this breed and breeding the resistant population much later, and in 1946 at the International show, the breeder Pietro Scanziani presented 8 individuals with certain characteristic features.
The breed standard was approved three years later, after which these indicators have undergone many changes. The last version was officially adopted in 1999.
Appearance and description of the Neapolitan Mastiffs with photos
In accordance with the standards of the breed, males of the Neapolitan Mastiff have an increase in withers from 65 to 75 cm, and weight from 60 to 70 kilograms. Females have a slightly smaller size, and reach a height of 60-68 cm, and their body weight is 50-60 kg.
The Neapolitan Mastiff dog has a number of external features that do not allow to confuse an individual with representatives of another large breed.
These include:
- Head. In mastiffs, it is large and massive, with a wide and voluminous skull. The dog’s forehead and cheeks are covered with deep folds, and the lips are fleshy, long and saggy.
- Muzzle. This part is almost square, with a large nose, wide open nostrils and powerful jaws.
- Teeth and jaw. The dog has a straight or scissor bite and medium sized canines.
- Eyes. The organs of vision are protected by heavy eyelids, have a rounded shape and large size. The color of the iris is most often dark, coinciding with the shade of the animal's coat.
- Ears. In dogs of the Mastino Neapolitano breed, they are small, have a triangular shape with rounded tips, and fit snugly to the cheeks.
- Neck. The transition from the head to the withers is smooth, this part of the animal's body has an average length and well developed muscular system. The skin here is gathered into folds that run from the middle of the neck to the chin.
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Mastino Neapolitano is a large and very massive dog.
Mastino Neapolitano is a large and very massive dog.Back. Like the whole body, it is covered with "steel" muscles, has an average length and an impressive width. Поясница у мастифов немного выпуклая.
The Neapolitan Mastiff dog looks large and massive, and developed muscles speak of impressive physical strength and endurance.
Type of coat and color
The skin of the animal is protected from cold and external influences only by straight and rigid hairs, tight to the body. Neapolitan mastiff has no undercoat. Wool hair in males is much tougher than bitches.
The colors are diverse, and individuals of this breed can be:
- black
- gray
- gray-blue
- lead silver
- brown
- nutty,
- fawn
- “Deer” colors (auburn),
- shade "isabella" (rare).
There are individuals whose color contains several colors that fade into each other. Also, animals may have white spots on the chest and limbs, which is not a deviation from the standard.
Character and temperament of mastiffs
Despite the awesome appearance, these animals are quite friendly and balanced, and are loyal and devoted friends. They need attention, affection and entertainment, alone they yearn and suffer. Of all the family members, the animal chooses its owner itself, and remains faithful to it until the end of life.
Neapolitan mastiffs are friendly and sociable to their family members.
Breeders value Mastiffs for their knowledge of quality:
- calm and poise
- restraint and patience
- devotion and fearlessness
- developed intelligence
- cleanliness,
- lack of care in the care.
Animals are quite favorable to strangers and guests of the house, but at the same time they are able to protect their owner and his property. Most of the time mastiffs spend in quiet contemplation, for which they received the nickname "philosophers".
Important! This breed of animals is very jealous, and this unpleasant feeling is often accompanied by aggression. Good physical shape allows the mastiffs to cause serious injury to a person or other animal, so these dogs should not be brought to families with small children or other pets.
Health and predisposition to diseases
The life expectancy of Neapolitan mastiffs ranges from 8 to 10 years, and with proper care and maintenance, they are able to live longer.
Animals are distinguished by excellent health, however, there are a number of diseases that affect individuals of this species most often, and the susceptibility to disturbances can be inherited.
These include:
- retinal atrophy,
- joint dysplasia
- cardiovascular diseases,
- disorders of the thyroid gland,
- demodicosis and dermatitis.
Mastino Neapolitano has good enough health.It is important to take the necessary preventive measures to prevent the development of these ailments. In addition, animals need mandatory vaccination and regular medical examinations.
Requirements for care and maintenance
Since the mastiffs are very large dogs, it is better to keep them in a private house with a large yard than in an apartment.
To grow a healthy and cheerful animal, you will need to follow the following guidelines:
- Take a pet at the age of 2 months. During this period, puppies are already quite strong, and are able to live separately from the mother.
- Engaged in raising a pet from the first days, trying to eliminate suspicion of the dog to strangers, which in puppy and later age may show aggression.
- Provide the dog with a soft and comfortable bedding to prevent joint problems.
- Since the animal is not very accurate, install bowls of food and drink on a surface that is easy to clean.
- At the age of 2 months, to carry out vaccination with a trivalent composition and other vaccinations on the recommendation of a veterinarian.
- The first time to walk with a puppy is only in a special tightening collar, which will help to save him from the habit of pulling the master by the leash.
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Neapolitan mastiffs need long walks.
Neapolitan mastiffs need long walks.It is not uncommon to arrest an animal’s ears, since they are its weak point, and diseases of the auditory organs in mastiffs.
Important! The dog must have a specific owner, it can not be the pet of "the whole family." Mastiffs need to be taught from childhood to obedience, in which case they will not pose a danger to other animals and strangers.
Feeding and nutrition
Dogs of this breed rarely suffer from diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. Most often this occurs as a result of improper feeding or lack of vitamins.
To avoid problems, you need to organize the feeding of the animal, guided by the following rules:
- Give the dog dry food, enriched with a complex of essential trace elements.
- Feed the animal at the same time, twice a day.
- Ensure that the pet always has fresh water.
- Exclude from the diet chicken, bone and boiled rice.
- Give the animal nutritional supplements containing calcium and other trace elements.
An indicator of good and proper nutrition is a regular stool in mastiffs. Intestinal cleansing in dogs of this breed should occur at least twice a day.
Features feeding puppies
Those who acquire a small puppy or are breeding mastiffs need to know how to feed babies between the ages of 2 and 4 months.
When the animals appear the first teeth, the mother gets very tired in the process of feeding, but at the same time the puppies need more nutrition every day.
In order for puppies mastino neapolitano had no health problems, they should be fed fully and in a balanced way.
You will need to feed them with milk mixtures, as well as introduce the following products into the diet:
- boiled eggs,
- raw liver
- plain yogurts
- yeast,
- fish fat.
Puppies should receive food at least 4 times a day. Additionally, you will need to give kids special additives for full growth and development.
Reviews about breed from breeders
Sergei. I already have the second mastiff, and I can say that it is not so difficult to train these animals if you know how to handle them. The main thing is not to overdo the dog and not to force it to carry out the same commands indefinitely, it will quickly tire and will avoid training in every possible way. To understand that the animal is tired, it is not difficult at all, my dogs in such situations pretended to be as if they didn’t understand the words I was saying. But if you do everything right, the animal will obey without question, the mastiffs are very smart and flexible.
Valentine. I didn’t manage to train my dog to carry out commands, or the mastiff is too stubborn, or I do not have enough patience and firmness of character. As a result, our pet has grown big, kind and stupid. He plays with children, calmly treats other dogs, does not rush to anyone when I walk with him in the public garden, and in my opinion, he is even afraid of cats. But at the same time, only one of its kind and loudly barking is enough for no one to get into my yard, so the guard from it would turn out to be reliable.
Olga Poor mastiff learning is a myth not worth seeing. They are very clever and flexible, love their masters and are ready to carry out any of their orders, just to earn approval. My dog learned everything quickly, I didn’t even have to raise my voice or show severity, everything passed easily and naturally. I am pleased with my dog, and my children simply adore him, and he reciprocates them.
We offer for viewing a video broadcast on the Neapolitan Mastiff or Mastino Neapolitano dog breed.
Characteristics and description
Let's dwell on this in more detail. The breed of dogs mastino neapolitano has a good temper. It is perfect for families with children.
This is a fairly large massive dog. The breed has been known for several hundred years. The first descriptions of the breed are dated 1897. Their author was the famous processor Tezze. He listed the main characteristics of the mastiffs. In 1946, an exhibition was held at which Piero Scantziani noticed this breed. He managed to get her two individuals of different sexes. It is thanks to this deal that the Neapolitano Mastino breed continues to delight modern dog breeders. Without it, the breed would simply disappear from the face of the earth.
For many, this dog breed of mastino is associated with other mastiffs, which in fact have nothing to do with Neapolitan. The breed standards were last corrected in 1999. It was then that these animals began to receive all the great popularity in Russia. In Rome, this breed of dog has always been popular. Animals are well guarded house, very attentive and active.
Dog mastino Neapolitano looks quite menacing due to its impressive size. To keep such an animal in a city apartment is quite difficult. In addition, these dogs love long walks in the fresh air. For them, preferred to stay in a private house outside the city.
Back in the middle of the 20th century, this breed was on the verge of extinction. However, the Italian dog handlers still managed to restore the population. Today, this breed is widely distributed. Many love these dogs for their kindness and malleability.
What does a mastino neapolitano dog look like? The breed standard describes mastiffs as watchdogs and sentries. The appearance of the dog can already discourage the attacker desire to covet on someone else's property. It can be safely attributed to large dogs with a fairly strong physique. The height of the body of an individual can reach 75 cm. The weight of a dog reaches 70 kg, with a large mass being allowed, but a weight of less than 50 kg indicates a serious defect.
We describe in more detail the constitution of Mastino. Photos will help you understand what features physique meet the standards.
The main ones are:
- The head of the mastiff should be massive. There are peculiar folds on it. Many of them are considered a feature of the appearance of the breed. The skull is bigger than the muzzle twice.
- Lips - this is what distinguishes the breed of dogs Mastino Neapolitano. Photos usually show characteristic fleshy lips, with the upper one being V-shaped. A characteristic feature of the breed are also powerful jaws. Bite them like mites or scissors.
- The eyes of the dog are usually widely spaced. The color should be the same as the color of the suit.
- As for the physique, the chest is particularly prominent. It is quite massive. The backbone is very strong. In height, the body is less than in length by about 10%.
- On a neck it is possible to notice characteristic folds from thick skin. The neck itself is rather wide, or, as they say, bull.
- The extremities of the mastino neapolitano are quite powerful.
- Earlier, according to the breed standard, the ears should have been arrested in the form of triangles. However, today they are often left in their original condition.
- The nose has a dark color.
- The tail is quite thick. According to the breed standard, it should be docked by about a third. At the same time at the base it is thicker than the end.
- The dog's coat is rough and rather short. In males and bitches, it is different. It is believed that the female individuals have a smoother and softer coat.
- The most common pets are gray and black color. However, mastiny can be red. The breed standard allows for white spots on the chest or paws, but there should not be a motley color.
- The movements of the dog are slow and sweeping. Despite this, a dog of this breed is considered a good protector. Often they are used as bodyguards and guards. Also, the breed has gained popularity among the police.
The cost of puppies mastino neapolitano can be quite high. The most valued individuals are dark brown color. There are currently not many nurseries working in Russia where they breed this breed. Every year the relevance of mastino increases. The dog can easily take his place in the family and become the universal favorite.
Now you know about what a dog Mastino Neapolitano is. Characteristics of the breed and growth make you think that the dog is quite serious. However, in fact, the mastiff can not be called a ferocious animal. It is easy to control if desired. Since ancient times, the dog shows guard instincts. She is rather wary of strangers. Be sure to keep this in mind when calling to the guest house. In relation to the owners, the representatives of this breed demonstrate unlimited devotion and goodwill. Mastiffs very badly tolerate the change of owner. The dog will suffer very much, remaining alone.
So what is worth paying attention to?
The Neapolitano Mastiff has the following characteristic qualities:
- calm
- equilibrium,
- cleanliness,
- devotion,
- restraint.
Thanks to his humble temper, the dog will never be the first to fight a fight. A dog will attack only in case of serious danger to itself or its owners. During the fight, the dog does not bark, but growls severely. If the mastiff got into a fight, he will continue it until the victorious or until he hears the host team.
This dog differs from other breeds in absolute dependence on the owner. She lies for hours beside family members, watching them. These dogs are able to sit in one place for a long time. They are contemplating something. That is how they once lived in ancient Rome.
It is very hard to find a more loyal pet than the Neapolitano Mastino dog. Her character is truly unique. The loyalty of this breed is unlimited. The same applies to the desire to please the owner. You can safely leave your pet at home and not be afraid for the safety of your property. In addition, the dog quickly finds a common language with children. He takes care and gentleness to the kids. Anger and aggression towards the small members of the family, he will not express.
Many are wary of Neapolitano Mastino dogs. Photos of massive serious dogs scare. However, do not be afraid to start a pet in the house of this breed. The dog will be a wonderful guard. In a dangerous situation, he did not hesitate to give his life for the owners.
Devotion to man
According to experienced dog breeders, the Neapolitano Mastino breed is extremely human-oriented. The dog can sit for hours with the owner and listen to what he says. Many believe that the pet understands everything, just can not answer. A strong emotional connection with the host for the mastiff is the key to a balanced psyche. The breed has been used as a watchman for centuries. However, the dog displays its guard instincts only in case of danger to the owner, his family and the territory to be protected.
Despite his rather serious appearance, the mastiff needs affection and love. The dog will never bark without a reason, which is important, because his voice is quite loud and formidable.
Upbringing
Dogs of the Neapolitan Mastiff breed have an excellent memory. They are very intelligent and remember all the manifestations of cruelty. Therefore, when training in no case can not resort to physical punishment. Dog can not be beaten and show in relation to him rudeness. Otherwise, the dog may become nervous and uncontrollable. For the dog to understand that he is behaving incorrectly, it will be enough just to slap him on the back with a newspaper.
Raising a puppy should be engaged from a young age. Then the adult mastiff will not create special difficulties in the content.
This issue should be given special attention. A dog Mastino Neapolitano will be healthy only if it is provided with the corresponding physical load. Walking in the fresh air should be regular and take a lot of time. In a city apartment, containing a mastiff can be somewhat problematic, since it requires space. It is better if the dog lives in a private house with a large territory, where he will be able to fully manifest his protective qualities.
For a mastiff, it is extremely important to identify a specific host. In this case, the dog will constantly try to earn his approval. The pet is wary of strangers. However, making sure that the stranger is not dangerous, he simply stops paying attention to him.
Бить собаку не следует. Неодобрение можно выразить голосом. Собака мастино неаполитано хорошо поддается дрессировке.
Советы кинологов
В раннем возрасте щенки на прогулках могут сильно тянуть хозяев за собой. Исправить ситуацию можно, используя стягивающий ошейник. Когда пес избавится от этой привычки, вы можете вернуться к использованию обычного приспособления для прогулок.
It is best to take a puppy at the age of 2 months. Socialization of the dog need to do immediately. This will help eliminate one of the most powerful traits of the mastiff - suspicion of others. Even adult animals can perceive bad compliments and affection from strangers. The dog is very loyal to its owners and wary of any interference from the outside.
For mastino neapolitano requires careful care, because the dog is quite painful. To achieve two months of age, vaccinations must be given. All actions are best agreed with a qualified veterinarian.
Before buying a puppy, be sure to consult with the breeder about the diet. An excellent option would be specialized premium food for dogs of large breeds. They contain all the necessary trace elements and vitamins. It is recommended to feed the dog only in the time strictly provided for this. At the same time, the dog must always have access to fresh water.
Many people like the breed mastino Neapolitano. A dog whose photo is sometimes just touching is actually quite painful. Often found among the representatives of this breed is filariasis. This disease affects the cardiopulmonary system. Mosquitoes can carry infection. Therefore, it is extremely important to protect your pet from these bloodsuckers, because filariasis can be fatal.
Dogs mastino neapolitano often suffer from bursitis. With this disease, fluid builds up in the joints and blisters form in the elbow area. To avoid the development of such a state, it is necessary to take care that the dog has soft habitat surfaces. Then, when going from a standing position to a prone position, the dog will not beat his elbows on a hard surface.
Mastino Neapolitano is extremely susceptible to such an unpleasant disease as hip dysplasia. During active growth (from 4 to 18 months) she may experience severe pain. This is due to the fact that with the rapid collection of body weight, muscles, ligaments and joints do not keep up with them.
The ears are the weakest point of the breed. By age, they should be stopped. If this is not done on time, the dog will suffer all his life from otitis and other diseases of the ears.
Conclusion
Now you know what is the breed Mastino Neapolitano. A dog whose photo does not convey all its beauty is best suited for keeping in a private country house with a large territory. In a city apartment it is not advisable to start such a breed due to the lack of free space. Representatives of this species are human-oriented and do not tolerate a long absence of hosts. If you are looking for a faithful and loyal friend, the mastiff is exactly what you need.
From the history of the breed
The history of the appearance of the dog breed Mastino Neapolitano is rooted in a long past. There is a version that these dogs are direct descendants of Tibetan watchdogs. According to legend, these were huge dogs with a fierce temper. According to researchers, Alexander of Macedon, conquered by the power and strength of these animals, brought two representatives of the breed to Italy. In Italy, imported dogs were crossed with Neapolian Iberian mastines. Thus, the name of the breed appeared - mastino neapolitano.
In those days, cruel spectacles involving dogs were common entertainment. That is why the mastiffs were used as gladiators for fighting in the arena. They were highly valued for their strength and courage. Nobody followed the purity of the breed at that time, so there was a spontaneous crossing of these giants with representatives of other breeds. Over time, mastiffs began to degenerate.
By the middle of the 20th century, there were only a few purebred specimens that retained signs of the Neapolitan Mastiff breed. The situation was saved by an enthusiast, amateur dog-dog Pietro Scanziani, who was seriously engaged in breeding these animals. Thanks to his efforts, this beautiful breed got another chance and in 1946 was officially registered.
Mastino Neapolitano - breed description
This guard dog has a short head and limbs, a wide torso. Height at withers ranges from 65 to 75 cm, weight - from 50 to 70 kg. Standard allows for more weight. A weight below the specified minimum is a defect. The parameters of the bitch are 15% less than that of the stala.
This is the main feature of a dog called Neapolitan Mastiff. It is very massive, with an excess of skin, which forms a kind of wrinkles.
Powerful jaws with a full set of teeth - a mandatory requirement of the standard. Ear, which previously had to be stopped by a triangle, today, in accordance with the changes in the standard, it is recommended to leave in its natural form.
The eyes are a little drooping. Their color should match the suit. The neck is powerful.
Wool and color
A completely smooth, fringed, gray or lead-black coat. The standard is also allowed red, red or brindle color. Motley wool is a disqualifying factor. Small white spots are allowed at the tips of the fingers and chest.
Despite its impressive and even formidable appearance, the Neapolitan Mastiff, the photo of which you can see in our article, is not that ferocious animal (with proper upbringing). He is perfectly trained, and therefore it can be controlled.
Considering the ancient instincts, you can bring up the ideal watchman from your pet. Mastino Neapolitano (owner reviews confirm this) is rather wary of strangers. This must be considered when inviting guests to the house.
These handsome men treat their owners kindly. These are very loyal creatures, so they are experiencing a very difficult change of owner. It should be said that this giant suffers even in the temporary absence of the owner.
Despite the fact that in ancient times these animals were fighters, gladiators, they have a calm disposition - the mastiff is extremely rarely the first to rush into a fight. The reason for the attack may be a situation of increased danger. Before entry and during the fight, the mastiff does not bark, but makes a deaf growl. If this dog all the same enters the fight, he will not leave "from the battlefield" until the enemy's complete surrender or until the owner shouts.
Health and Care
Like most representatives of large breeds, mastino is not long-lived. Characteristic features of appearance and anatomy cause the following diseases:
- hip dysplasia,
- bursitis,
- ear diseases,
- food and atopic allergies,
- heart failure,
- metabolic disease,
- dermatitis, demodicosis, pyoderma,
- retinal atrophy.
Since the dog lives in an apartment or house, the care for it is minimal. Smooth short mastino wool does not need grooming. It is enough to comb the dog 1-2 times a week with a special brush from natural bristles.
It is necessary to bathe the dog only if it is very polluted, since a violation of the natural fatty lubricant will lead to dandruff, thinning and weakening of the coat, and the risk of developing skin diseases. Puppies wash recommended only after a year.
It is very necessary to monitor the health of the ears, especially if they are not cropped. Clean them 1 time in 2-3 days. Need to care for the teeth and eyes of Mastino, they need cleaning and, if necessary, treatment. A dog may have saliva when it eats, agitates, or in anticipation of food, which must be wiped out so that wrinkles do not macerate. Periodically, the folds need to be checked as they accumulate dust, perspiration, food particles, which leads to inflammation and the occurrence of dermatoses.
To maintain physical fitness and prevent obesity, the dog must walk for at least 2 hours. Natural curiosity should be satisfied by visiting special places of walking where the dog can communicate with other dogs, run, play. Huge size and short hair can lead to overheating of mastino, so in the hot season walks need to be postponed for a time with a lower temperature - morning or evening.
Socialization, education, training
Such a dog, in order to prevent its excessive suspicion, needs to be among people from an early age. Outside the house, usually there are no problems, but it is necessary to ensure that outsiders do not really gesticulate.
When a guest comes to the house, the mastiff is alarmed, but as soon as he is convinced that the stranger does not pose a danger to the owner, he stops noticing him. The guest should take the same position - ignore the dog and not try to pet him. Mastino saves his tenderness only for the owner and his family. He does not tolerate familiarity with himself.
This is a smart, simple-minded, restrained and observant dog. She has an excellent memory and strives in every way to earn the trust of the owner.
In no case do not beat the dog or even threaten it. To make it clear that you are unhappy with the behavior of your pet, you just need to raise your voice.
Future owners of masto need to know that this is not an indoor dog. He needs space, the ability to move, bask in the sun. Teams must be served without malice, but in a firm tone. Having given the command, achieve that it was executed. Otherwise, the dog decides that he may disobey you with complete impunity. Do not scold her when the dog barks. She does this very rarely, and even then only to warn the owner about something.
Some breeders from Naples teach their pets to rush to strangers using a special signal. This can be any “code” word inserted in the conversation, or an inconspicuous touch on the side of the animal. But you should think carefully whether you need to use such techniques.
Young mastino while walking quite strongly pulls the leash. A special chain-shaped collar with a metal ring will very quickly wean the puppy from this habit. Then this device should be replaced with an ordinary collar.
Neapolitan mastiff should not sit in the yard on the chain. This will embitter and offend the dog, deprive it of its freedom of movement, which it very much needs. The requirements and behavior of all family members should be the same. It is unacceptable that one of the owners prohibits something, and the other cancels these prohibitions.
When to buy a puppy
If you decide that this is exactly the dog that you need, you need to heed the advice of experienced dog breeders and dog handlers. We hope you understand that this is not an ordinary dog - Neapolitan Mastiff. Its price is now quite high, as in recent years, the breed is not too common on the territory of our country.
It is necessary to acquire such a dog from well-established breeders, and even better - in a specialized kennel. We do not recommend buying a puppy in the poultry market. In this case, you risk acquiring an unhealthy animal with an unstable psyche, from which a very dangerous and uncontrollable dog can grow.
Before choosing a puppy, it is necessary to “get acquainted” with its parents in order to be sure of their health and the absence of serious defects. It is necessary to study the pedigree of the animal, to get acquainted with the schedule of preventive vaccinations.
Taking a puppy from mom is preferable after two months. Consult with the breeder about feeding the baby.
Neapolitan Mastiff - puppy price
As we have already mentioned, today this wonderful breed is not very common in Russia, so the prices for mastino are now quite high. The cost of puppies with all the necessary supporting documents from experienced breeders who are trustworthy, ranges from 40 to 100 thousand rubles.
Mastino Neapolitano - owner reviews
In conclusion, I would like to say to everyone who wants to have such a large dog that the owners of these animals do not recommend purchasing it to beginners in dog breeding. This animal is quite difficult for a beginner, it requires a “firm hand (but not violence). Those who have experience in dealing with such animals, the owners recommend not to postpone the purchase. The Neapolitan Mastiff, with proper upbringing and socialization, is a reliable watchman, a faithful and devoted friend to his masters.
Where to buy a puppy and kennels
The breed is becoming more popular, so finding a nursery that breeds mastino neapolitano is not very difficult. In Moscow it is:
- Larga Pav, http://dog.pet2me.com/ru/club/id/1289/,
- “Neapolitan Mastiffs of Natalia Rodionova” http://dog.pet2me.com/ru/club/id/1245/,
- “Vento Fortuna”, http://www.hochusobaku.ru/kennel/548/,
- "Grande Stella", http://grandestella.ru/
- Gvidion, http://dog.pet2me.com/ru/club/id/624/, etc.
In Kiev, they are somewhat smaller, but the most famous breeders of mastino are:
- GRANDI FRATELLI, http://petsnet.com.ua/nurseries/361/,
- Del ’Bosco Folto, http://kiev.link.ua/profile/5059/.
Mastino Neapolitano is a loyal and faithful friend who will become so only in the capable, loving and caring hands of the owner.
