Today, many want to have a pet at home. The Neapolitan Mastino dog has been known since ancient Rome. This is a fairly large individual with a massive physique. Is it hard to keep her at home? And what is her character? These and many other issues are the subject of this review.
History
It is believed that modern representatives of this breed are the descendants of those dogs that fought in the ancient Roman arenas. Some believe that the roots of this breed should be sought in the East. Her ancestor, in their opinion, is a guard dog from Tibet. According to legend, the progenitor of the breed was brought to Italy on a Phoenician ship. There she underwent a number of changes as a result of crosses. When the Roman Empire collapsed, representatives of this breed were mainly deployed in Naples. This explains the name.
In addition, it is believed that the ancestors of Mastino Neapolitan were representatives of the Italian Moloss. They came to Rome thanks to Paul Emil of Macedon. He brought to the procession a hundred fighting dogs, including Mastino dogs. It happened in 168 BC. e.
History knows a number of factors confirming that the Mastino Neapolitan dog appeared in Italy even earlier. As Pliny wrote, these puppies were presented by the conquered Indian king Alexander the Great. Dogs with identical sizes and proportions can often be seen on works of art created in India, Nineveh, Persia. Lucretius also described huge representatives of this species (1st century BC). In his works, he called them Molossians.
Characteristics and Description
Let's dwell on this in more detail. The breed of mastino Neapolitan dogs has a good disposition. 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 Tezza processor. He listed the main characteristics of mastiffs. In 1946, an exhibition was held in which Piero Scanciani noticed this breed. He managed to acquire on her two individuals of different sexes. Thanks to this deal, the Neapolitan mastino breed continues to delight modern dog breeders. Without it, the breed would simply disappear from the face of the earth.
For many, this mastino dog is associated with other mastiffs that actually have nothing to do with Neapolitan. The breed standards were last updated in 1999. It was then that these animals began to gain more and more popularity in Russia. In Rome, this breed of dog has always been popular. Animals guard the house well, are very attentive and active.
The Neapolitan Mastino dog looks rather formidable due to its impressive size. Keeping such an animal in a city apartment is quite difficult. In addition, these dogs love long walks in the fresh air. For them, living in a private house outside the city is preferable.
Back in the mid-20th century, this breed was on the verge of extinction. However, Italian dog handlers still managed to restore the population. To date, this breed is widespread enough. Many people love these dogs for their kindness and complaisance.
Appearance
What does a mastino neapolitan dog look like? The breed standard describes mastiffs as sentries and guards. The appearance of the dog can already discourage the attacker from wanting to stare at someone else's property. It can be safely attributed to large dogs with a fairly strong physique. In height, the body of an individual can reach 75 cm. The weight of the dog reaches 70 kg, and a large mass is allowed, but a weight of less than 50 kg indicates a serious defect.
Let us describe in more detail the constitution of mastino. Photos will help you understand what physique is up to standards.
The main ones are:
- The mastiff's head must be massive. There are peculiar folds on it. Many consider them to be a feature of the appearance of the breed. The skull is twice as large as the muzzle.
- Lips - this is the difference between a mastino Neapolitan dog breed. Photos usually show characteristic fleshy lips, with the upper one having a V-shape. A characteristic feature of the breed are also powerful jaws. They bite like ticks or scissors.
- The dog’s eyes are usually wide apart. The color should be the same as the color of the suit.
- As for the physique, the chest is especially prominent here. It is quite massive. The backbone is very strong. In height, the body is less than in length by about 10%.
- On the neck you can see the characteristic folds of thick leather. The neck itself is quite wide, or, as they say, bullish.
- The limbs of a mastino Neapolitan are quite powerful.
- Earlier, according to the breed standard, the ears had to stop in the shape of triangles. However, today they are often left in their original condition.
- The nose is dark in color.
- The tail is quite thick. According to the breed standard, it should be stopped by about a third. Moreover, at the base it is thicker than towards the end.
- The coat of the dog is coarse and fairly short. In males and females, it is different. It is believed that females have a smoother and softer coat.
- Most often, pets of gray and black color are found. However, mastins can be red. The breed standard allows for white spots on the chest or paws, but there should not be a mottled color.
- The dog’s movements are slow and sweeping. Despite this, a dog of this breed is considered a good protector. Often they are used as bodyguards and security guards. Also, the breed gained popularity among the police.
The cost of Neapolitan mastino puppies can be quite high. Most appreciated are individuals of dark brown color. Not so many nurseries are currently working in Russia where they breed this breed. Every year the relevance of mastino increases. The dog can easily take its place in the family and become a universal favorite.
Character
Now you know roughly what a Neapolitan Mastino dog is. Characteristics of the breed and growth make us think that the dog is quite serious. However, in fact, mastiff can not be called a ferocious animal. It is easy to control if desired. Since ancient times, the dog has shown watchdog instincts. She is quite wary of strangers. Be sure to keep this in mind when calling to the guest house. In relation to the owners, representatives of this breed demonstrate unlimited devotion and goodwill. Mastiffs very poorly tolerate a change of ownership. The dog will suffer greatly, being alone.
Qualities
So what is worth paying attention to?
The following characteristic qualities are characteristic of a Mastiff Neapolitan:
- calm
- equilibrium;
- cleanliness;
- devotion;
- restraint.
Thanks to his humble disposition, the dog will never be the first to climb into the fray. 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 he is victorious or until he hears the master’s command.
This dog differs from other breeds in absolute dependence on the owner. She lies for hours near family members, watches them. These dogs are able to sit in one place for a long time. They are as if contemplating something. That is how they once lived in ancient Rome.
It is very difficult to find a more faithful pet than a Mastino Neapolitan dog. Her character is really unique. The loyalty of the representatives 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 the children. He shows care and gentleness to kids. He will not express bitterness and aggression towards young family members.
Many are wary of Neapolitan mastino dogs. Photos of massive serious dogs scare away. However, do not be afraid to start a pet of this breed in the house. The dog will be a wonderful guard. In a dangerous situation, without hesitation he will give his life for the owners.
Devotion to man
According to experienced dog breeders, the Neapolitan mastino breed is extremely human oriented. A dog can sit with his master for hours and listen to what he says. Many believe that the pet understands everything, just can not answer. A strong emotional connection with the owner for the mastiff is the key to a balanced psyche. The breed has been used as a watchman for many centuries. However, the dog displays its protective instincts only in case of danger to the owner, his family and the territory that needs to be protected.
Despite its rather serious appearance, the mastiff needs affection and love. The dog will never bark for no reason, which is important, because his voice is quite loud and formidable.
Parenting
Dogs of the Neapolitan mastiff breed have excellent memory. They are very smart and remember all the manifestations of cruelty. Therefore, when training, in no case should you resort to physical punishment. A dog cannot be beaten and rude to him. 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 handled from a young age. Then an adult mastiff will not create any special difficulties in maintenance.
Care
This issue should be given special attention. A Mastino Neapolitan dog will be healthy only if it is provided with appropriate physical activity. Walking in the fresh air should be regular and take a lot of time. In a city apartment, keeping a mastiff can be somewhat problematic, because it requires space. It is better if the dog lives in a private house with a large territory, where he can fully demonstrate his protective qualities.
It is extremely important for a mastiff 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 ceases to pay attention to him.
The dog should not be beaten . Disapproval can be expressed in voice. The Neapolitan Mastino dog lends itself well to training.
Dog handler tips
At an early age, puppies on walks can strongly pull the owners with them. You can correct the situation using a tightening collar. When the dog gets rid of this habit, you can return to using the usual device for walking.
It is best to take a puppy at the age of 2 months. The socialization of the dog must be dealt with immediately. This will help eliminate one of the strongest features of the character of the mastiff - suspicion of others. Even adult animals may not accept compliments and affection from strangers. The dog is very loyal to its owners and wary of any interference from the outside.
Careful care is required for Neapolitan mastino, as the dog is quite painful. Upon reaching two months of age, vaccinations must be given. All actions are best coordinated with a qualified veterinarian.
Before buying a puppy, be sure to consult the breeder about the diet. An excellent option will 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 at the strictly allotted time for this. In this case, the dog should always have access to fresh water.
Disease
Many people like the mastino Neapolitan breed. A dog, whose photos are sometimes simply touching, is actually quite painful. Often found among representatives of this breed, philariasis. This disease affects the cardiopulmonary system. Infection can be transmitted by mosquitoes. Therefore, it is extremely important to protect your pet from these bloodsuckers, because philariasis can be fatal.
Mastino Neapolitan dogs often suffer from bursitis. With this disease, fluid builds up in the joints and blisters form in the elbows. To avoid the development of such a condition, care must be taken to ensure that the dog has soft surfaces for habitation. Then, when moving from a standing position to a lying position, the dog will not beat its elbows on a hard surface.
Mastino Neapolitan 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 rapid weight gain, muscles, ligaments and joints do not keep up with them.
The weakest point of the breed is the ears. By age, they should be stopped. If this is not done on time, the dog will suffer from otitis media and other ear diseases all his life.
Conclusion
Now you know what the Neapolitan mastino breed is. 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 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 faithful friend, a mastiff is exactly what you need.