Neopolitan Mastiffs - Understanding and Interacting |
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With their stocky bodies, serious stares, and an overall impression of quiet strength, these dogs were actually developed to look and act terrifying when the situation calls for it. However, it might be a surprise for some people that, at present, these dogs are less about bite and bark than they are about giving affection to their families. Where Their Scary Reputation Comes From Neapolitan mastiffs actually used to be bred and trained to fight alongside Roman legions. With their large bodies, incredible courage and strength, they fought against bulls and wild-boars. They were also said to be able to fight even against lions. In fact, the ancestors of these dogs were a favorite breed of Alexander the Great. How They Are Known Now Well, it should be a pleasure for you to know that these Neapolitan Mastiffs are actually peaceful and steady pets. That doesn't mean, though, that they are undependable - since that is hardly the case. They are very protective and fearless, so these dogs will readily come to your aid whenever the situation presents itself. However, these dogs can prove to be hard to handle for some people. Neapolitan mastiffs are not just for anyone, especially not for first time dog owners, since they need masters who are confident and firm in their commands. Otherwise, they might become too willful and independent of their masters. Are You Up to Taking Care of a Neapolitan Mastiff? Neapolitan mastiffs are actually very intelligent so it doesn't need a lot of training. These dogs are also very sensitive to what their master wants. But, before anything else, they will need an owner that they can respect as their superior. This doesn't mean that you have to be someone like a distinguished historical figure such as Alexander the Great. This simply means that these dogs need a dominant master who will be thorough and consistent in their training in order to properly control them. Training the Proud Beast Firstly, your dominance as its owner should be established early on - while the dog is still young. This goes a long way in the dog's training since it will always look up to you as its master and not someone who it can control. It is recommended that you give your dog some additional obedience training so it will be easier for the two of you to communicate. Always remember to be firm, and confident when giving a command. Also, you will need to socialize Neapolitan mastiffs at an early age since they are naturally wary of strangers. You'll need to get them used to the presence of other animals that you keep as pets, and to the presence of other people such as your neighbors. Constant exercise is also important to this breed so you are going to have to take your pets on daily walks. Again, it is important that you walk your dogs properly, especially with Neapolitan mastiffs. Remember to show it that it is you who decides the pace of the walk. You are doing it right when your dog walks alongside you and not ahead of you. Finally, whenever you have to correct the dog for an error it committed you must be able to match the dog's intensity, and you must be swift in correcting it. If you are able to do all of this, then you should be able to raise a serious, calm, and quiet dog that is a natural at guarding your family against all sorts of harm. Otherwise, it might be best to pick another breed of dog to take care of, gain experience in training dogs, and perhaps consider taking on the task of raising Neapolitan mastiffs. Photo by kenjonbro
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When you first see Neapolitan mastiffs, it is very understandable to feel slightly intimidated by their appearance. These dogs have large, rectangular bodies; a massive head; and a wrinkled face giving it a brutish appearance rather than amiable. These dogs also move slowly - to the point of seeming colossal - so they don't look like they're there for show. They look like they mean business.