The very first thing you should know about the Neapolitan Mastiff, a breed that is a bit like a larger, grander version of man’s best friend, is that they are indeed a shedding breed. However, their shedding patterns may not be what you’d typically expect! This large and commanding breed comes packed with a staggering amount of heart and protector instinct. These aren’t just dogs, they are gentle giants! Now, let’s discuss the shedding profile of these magnificent beasts- because it’s surprisingly different than you’d expect.
Neapolitan Mastiffs, known for their solemn and dignified appearance — hilariously incongruous with their double role as large lap dogs– have short, dense coats of fur. Despite their size, they aren’t as high maintenance when it comes to shedding as you might believe. They do not shed constantly like many breeds. Instead, Neapolitan Mastiffs participate in a rite of passage known amongst dog enthusiasts as “blowing their coat.”
Twice each year, usually spring and fall, these dogs experience a marked increase in shedding. This process, also known as “blowing their coat,” is basically your canine shedding its old fur to make room for a new, season-appropriate coat. This is true for Neapolitan Mastiffs as well- they don’t shed excessively throughout the year, but when it’s time for them to blow their coat, it’s likely you’ll notice! But more on that later, because for now, we must delve a bit deeper into the history and characteristics of this noble breed.
Native to Italy, the Neapolitan Mastiff is a descendent of the Molossus, the mammoth war dogs of the Middle Ages. Despite their impressive lineage, these dogs are gentle and obedient companions, qualities that contrast vividly with their fierce, mastodon-like appearance. These dogs are known for their loyalty, bonded to their families with every ounce of that big heart they possess. But let’s get back to the fur- because knowing the how’s and why’s of Mastiff shedding may just save you some headaches.
So, does the Neapolitan Mastiff shed a lot? As mentioned earlier, these dogs have two high-shed seasons per year. To support the shedding process and keep your home reasonably fur-free, you should be prepared to up your grooming game during these periods.
The good news is, the rest of the year, the Neapolitan Mastiff is relatively low-shedding compared to other breeds. Daily brushing will not be necessary; a weekly brushing should be enough to keep their coat slick and clean. Yet, during those couple of high-shed seasons, consider increasing the brushing frequency to daily. The process will not only keep the stray hair in check but also provide some alone bonding time with your four-legged friend.
When grooming your Neapolitan Mastiff during this high-shed period, use a high-quality de-shedding tool. There are a plethora on the market, all designed to capture and remove loose fur before it has a chance to land on your favorite black pants.
Allergies can be a concern when considering a breed known for shedding. And yes, Neapolitan Mastiffs, like all dogs, do produce dander which can trigger an allergic reaction in sensitive folks. But remember, these are not constantly shedding dogs. For those with mild allergies, a Mastiff’s relatively predictable shed schedule might make it easier to manage the allergens in your home because you can ramp up your cleaning routine in line with their shedding periods.
So, when it comes to the question, “Does the Neapolitan Mastiff shed a lot?” the answer is a bifurcated “Yes and No”. It’s “Yes” twice a year when they’re blowing their coat, and it’s “No” most of the rest of the time.
In conclusion, lifestyle compatibility is the key factor to consider when choosing a dog breed. If you’re seeking a lovable giant who sheds predictably, and you’re okay with a little extra grooming during their high-shed seasons, the noble Neapolitan Mastiff might just be your perfect match.
