Neapolitan Mastiff
The Neapolitan Mastiff or the Neo Mastiff is an Italian dog breed usually described as guard dogs is a close relative of the Cane Corso
Breed Profile
Height
26 – 30
Inches
Weight
130 – 150
Pounds
Life Span
8 – 10
Years
Health
health
Cherry Eye
What is it?:
It is a condition where the tissue in the corner of the eye becomes red. You can see an inflammation in the area. The area is also referred as the ‘third eye lid’
Clinical signs
Visible red swelling in the corner of the eye
Excessive tear production
Dry eyes
Excessive squinting
Inflamed conjunctiva
Treatment
If left untreated, the cherry eye problem can decrease tear production and also lead to incomplete closure of the eye. It can cause severe pain, infections and even blindness in some cases. The treatment may involve surgical replacement of the third eye-lid. Anti-inflammatory drugs can help for temporary relief.
Eligible vet bill
$800
*Hypothetical reimbursement examples illustrate reimbursement of an eligible vet bill at the noted reimbursement rate, assuming the annual deductible had already been satisfied and the annual coverage limit has not yet been met. Annual deductible, co-insurance, benefit and coverage limits, and exclusions may apply. Eligibility may vary. Visit https://spotpet.com/spot-sample-policy.pdf for full terms. For Canada enrollments only, reimbursement rate is based on the pet's age.
health
Hip or Elbow Dysplasia
What is it?:
This genetic health issue is the one where the hip or elbow joints loosens up which causes dysfunction and pain. Over time, this may result into arthritis, muscle atrophy and limitations in mobility
Clinical signs
Staying in bed instead of going out
Decreased range of motion
Difficulty or reluctance in climbing stairs, rising up, jumping or running
Loss of muscle mass in the thighs
Noticeable enlargement of the shoulder muscles as they compensate for the hind end
Flinches when the lower back muscles are touched
Treatment
Treatment may require chiropractic therapy and surgery.
Eligible vet bill
$2,000
*Hypothetical reimbursement examples illustrate reimbursement of an eligible vet bill at the noted reimbursement rate, assuming the annual deductible had already been satisfied and the annual coverage limit has not yet been met. Annual deductible, co-insurance, benefit and coverage limits, and exclusions may apply. Eligibility may vary. Visit https://spotpet.com/spot-sample-policy.pdf for full terms. For Canada enrollments only, reimbursement rate is based on the pet's age.
Personality
Powerful
The sheer size of it makes it a powerful breed of dogs.
Steady
Unlike some hyperactive dogs, the Neo Mastiff is a calm and steady dog and less of a wreck havoc
Affectionate
These dogs love to be around their family members and be a part of every activity they do. They are very cheerful especially around kids.
Lifetime Care
Coat
The Mastiff has a double coat for weather protection where the outer one is short and straight, while the inner one is shorted and dense
Colors
These dogs come in a limited number of colors including tawny, mahogany, black, and gray
Hypoallergenic
No
Grooming
A short coat means that a normal bathing and brushing routine works just fine. Just the ears and eyes should be cleaned properly with a damp cloth or a paper towel. Nail trimming, just like other dogs, is a must periodically.
Training
The younger Neo puppies are more active and are important to train at that age as the older ones can get laidback. Encouraging, positive reinforcements work well on this breed over punishments. A short 15-30 minute walk usually suffices along with hikes or a game of catch once in a while
The Neo Mastiffs are a descendent of the great Molossus war dog and their existence dates way back 5000 years ago. It also owes its ancestral origins to India as the short-hair feature comes from there. It was bred to master ‘catch’ and ‘watch’ as in catch bigger animals during chase and guard houses. Their unique physical trait is their loose facial skin and abundance of wrinkles on the entire face.
Neapolitan Mastiff: Introduction to the Breed
The breed makes excellent family dogs due to their love and affection side. However, it is always better to do know as much as possible about a breed before bringing them home.
Neo Mastiff Dogs are generally:
Gentle and quiet
Non-aggressive
Great watch dogs
Laid back as they grow older
Cuddly
Neapolitan Mastiffs are best suited for –
Experienced dog owners
City apartment type setting household but with ample space to walk around
People who like to get clingy and cuddly with their dogs
Families with older kids
Health Risks for a Neo Mastiff Puppy
Apart from the above-mentioned common health problems, these lifesaving dogs are also prone to some other health related issues which can give the owner a hard time to their time, head and even wallet.
Just like any other big dog, they are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia
This breed is also prone to a form of skin infection called lip-fold pyoderma. The folds of skin along the lower jaw are usually moist. Due to that, bacteria and yeast can develop there and the smelly area becomes uncomfortable for your dog.
Osteosarcoma – a type of bone cancer is also evident in these dogs which affects around 8 to 10 thousand Mastiffs in the USA.
The New Mastiff is also susceptible to breathing problems because of some physical abnormalities like narrow nostrils or a small wind pipe that compresses easily.
There is one life threatening condition which Neo Mastiffs are prone to called Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Things to watch-out before deciding to own a Neapolitan Mastiff
There are a few cautions that you need to know before deciding to adopt a Neapolitan Mastiff
They may not be very great with other dogs or even your own pets at home especially if they are smaller in size as the sheer size of these dogs will scare them and can lead to aggression
If by chance you plan on playing tug-of-war with your Neo, make sure you win. Once, the dog figures that it has more power than you, it may no longer obey you much.
They can be really stubborn at times during trainings or other activities making it difficult for them to teach obedience
They have a mind of their own and can be very determined at times and won’t hear you or your commands
Do to their size, supervision may be needed around young children
Conclusion
Looking for a big giant but gentle dog then Neapolitan Mastiff is the one for you. A calm and not so loud dog, welcoming and easy going on strangers and other pets, a Mastiff is a keeper. And an actual keeper as well, because its size and tough look will scare most of the people away from the gate. But if you’re getting a Neo Mastiff home, you are in for a lot of love, affection, protection and cuddles.
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