In an Italian work of art known as the “Sistine Chapel,” you can spot an interesting figure guarding the gates of hell. No, it isn’t a frightening demon or a fiery beast, but a beautifully depicted Neapolitan Mastiff. The Neapolitan Mastiff, or “Mastino Napoletano” in Italian, is a historic canine that has protected families and properties for thousands of years. But would they fit well into your family? This is one question that requires a thorough examination. Let’s dig into the fascinating world of Neapolitan Mastiffs to give you a clear view.
Neapolitan Mastiffs are eminent for their profound loyalty, exceptional protective instincts, and the kind of stoic dignity that you can only find in a canine with such a long and illustrious pedigree. Their history stretches thousands of years back, from the Roman Colosseum to Michelangelo’s masterpieces. However, today they are not gladiators or guardians of hell, but family dogs. And it’s about time we unveiled their true potential in this role.
One of the hallmarks of the Neapolitan Mastiff is their deep bond with families. They are capable of forming deep-seated emotional bonds with their human companions. This often makes them great companions for children, especially as they grow up alongside them. A Mastino, once bonded with a child, will consider their safety tantamount to their own.
It’s worth noting that while their size might be intimidating, they are generally gentle giants. One of the interesting facts about Mastinos is that they were selectively bred by the Romans to be “mellow” around people when not provoked. This inherent gentleness is something that has remained in their genes, making them pretty easy-going and relaxed around family members, their kids, and even other pets.
However, their protective instincts can come alive if they sense any potential threat. Historically, these dogs have been excellent guards, ranging from protecting Roman legions, Italian villas, to your family home. They are excellent watchdogs. If you live in a neighborhood that requires an extra level of safety, a Neapolitan Mastiff might just be the ideal addition.
Despite their naturally protective nature, never forget that a Mastino is a “massive” big dog, and they come with “massive” responsibilities. A well-trained and socialized Mastino could be an excellent pet for children while an untrained one could cause problems. Early training and socialization are vital in ensuring any Mastino grows up to be an amiable family friend rather than an unruly beast.
Remember that the instinct to protect is deeply ingrained in their genes. Teaching them good manners and helping them decipher between potential threats and regular visitors is crucial. Neapolitan Mastiff puppies display a high curiosity level, making the initial training relatively easy. Who knew this massive creature could be such an eager learner?
Neapolitan Mastiffs are also prone to several health issues due to their large size. Examples include hip dysplasia, heart conditions, bloating, and eye problems like cherry eye and entropion. Regular visits to the vet and a healthy diet can help manage these potential health concerns.
Being aware of this aspect is important before deciding to add this dog breed to your family. A healthy Neapolitan Mastiff can live a good and long life, offering countless memories and protective companionship for your family. But if you’re not ready for the potential health issues, you may need to reconsider.
Choosing a family dog depends on various factors such as your living situation, extra caregiving time, and, most importantly, your family’s unique dynamic. With their massive size and protective instincts, a Neapolitan Mastiff isn’t for everyone.
However, these beautiful and powerful dogs are often gentle, loving, and protective of their families. When well-trained and socialized, they can be great companions for kids. So, if you are searching for a family dog that would watch out for any danger, a Mastino may just meet that bill.
Just remember – as a family, you all must be ready to invest time and resources into taking care of this sweet giant. A Neapolitan Mastiff thrives when it’s given affection, attention, and a strong leader. If you feel like you’re up for the challenge and the love that a Mastino brings, they might just be the perfect addition to your family unit.
In the end, you have to understand that the Neapolitan Mastiff isn’t just any dog, it’s a commitment alongside being an exquisite embodiment of canine history. With love, care, and understanding, a Neapolitan Mastiff might just add authoritative bark to your home, and, more importantly, a big heart to your family.
