Neapolitan Mastiffs, also called Italian Mastiffs or Mastinos, are large, powerful, and protective dogs. They are loyal and devoted to their families and tend to be sweet and affectionate with them. Here are a few fun facts about Neapolitan Mastiffs:

1. Neapolitan Mastiffs Have Ancient Ancestry

The Neapolitan Mastiff’s ancestors can be traced back to 3000 BCE. Like other mastiffs, they are descended from the Molosser-type dogs of Tibet and the war dogs of the Roman Empire. Mastiffs maintained popularity throughout Europe for centuries. Much like many dog breeds, they almost disappeared after World War II.

After World War II ended, an Italian reporter and painter named Piero Scanziani rediscovered the breed. He founded a kennel and is credited with refining and developing Italy’s Mastiff-type dog into the Neapolitan Mastiff, or Italian Mastiff, breed as we know it today.

2. They Tend to Be Gentle Giants

Neapolitan Mastiffs are one of the largest dog breeds in the world. They may grow to be large, powerful dogs that are built like tanks and look intimidating, but they are known to be gentle, loving, and affectionate giants with their families. They tend to act like lap dogs throughout their lives and enjoy spreading out to relax.

These dogs also tend to get along well with children. Their big size and tendency to be clumsy at times can knock over small children. For this reason, they are sometimes considered a better fit for families with older children who won’t be easily injured by an accidental bump from a big dog.

Italian Mastiffs do not tend to warm up to strange animals easily, but they do well with other dogs and other pets they have been raised with. Although their protective nature makes them initially wary of strangers, a well-socialized Neapolitan Mastiff will tend to warm up once they get to know them.

3. Italian Mastiffs Tend to Require a More Experienced Owner

These big, lovable dogs love their families and are eager to please. Although they do pick up on things quickly, they are also known to have a strong will and a tendency to be stubborn. Many of them don’t reach their laid-back maturity until they are about 3-4 years old.

Until then, you may experience an extended stubborn streak similar to a rebellious teenager. Consistent training with firm boundaries and positive rewards is key. Still, these dogs do still tend to push boundaries. All of this can be difficult for first-time or novice dog owners to handle, and puppy training classes are recommended.

4. They Can be Energetic, Especially as Puppies

Although Neapolitan Mastiffs generally sit in a low to moderate activity range, they can be energetic when they are young and may require more activity to be happy and healthy. They do eventually settle as they grow and mature, but that can take a few years. Also, they can become couch potato dogs later in life if you let them, so it’s important to make sure they continue to get enough exercise.

It’s important to make sure you keep activities low-impact until puppies finish growing to avoid damaging developing bones and joints. Puppies finish growing at different rates. As a giant dog breed, it will take longer for a Neapolitan Mastiff puppy to finish growing. In fact, it can take up to 2 years or more. Your vet can help you determine when they are done growing and ready to do more.

5. You Need to Care For Their Skin

Mastinos are known for their large size and their loose, wrinkly skin. Although their skin and wrinkles are classic features of the breed, they do require some extra care. Similar to Bulldogs and Shar Pei, wrinkles can trap dirt and moisture. If not kept clean, skin can become irritated or infected.

It’s a good idea to check and clean your Neapolitan Mastiff’s skin and wrinkles regularly. Make sure the area is clean and dry. If you see any signs of irritation or redness, clean it carefully, keep an eye on it, and call your vet. These can be signs of temporary irritation, but they could also be signs of allergies, dermatitis, folliculitis, or developing bacterial or fungal skin infections.

6. Mastinos Are Prone to Drooling

Why do dogs drool? There can be a few reasons, and some dogs are just more prone to drooling than others. Neapolitan Mastiffs tend to have loose skin and wrinkles, which also means droopy jowls and some extra drool. It’s not a bad idea to have a drool cloth around to wipe up extra drool. A drool cloth is especially useful to have near your dog’s water bowls, as they will often drip water as they finish drinking.

7. Leash Training is Essential

Leash training early on is a good idea for any dog, and becomes even more essential for large dog breeds. Neapolitan Mastiffs grow into huge dogs. You need to make sure you can retain control of them with the leash and commands while on walks, and ensure that they aren’t yanking you around on leash.

It’s also a good idea to train your dog not to jump up. Mastinos are big dogs; they’re large even as puppies, and can be a handful when they are excited. They can easily knock someone over and injure them if they are allowed to jump up on them.

8. They Can Have Trouble Swimming

Swimming is a great low-impact activity for dogs. However, some dogs are better at it than others. The Neapolitan Mastiff is a top-heavy dog. Although individual dogs may vary, as a breed overall, they usually have trouble keeping their heads above water on their own and don’t always swim well.

This doesn’t mean that you can’t go swimming with your Mastino. It just means that you need to be aware of the breed’s unique traits and how they affect the dog in the water. Make sure you put a well-fitted life vest on your dog, be nearby to help them if needed, keep an eye on them, and follow other safety tips for swimming with your dog.

Is a Neapolitan Mastiff Puppy Right For You?

These are just a few fun facts about Neapolitan Mastiffs. These dogs can be a good fit for single owners or families who have some experience with big dogs and can give these dogs the exercise, attention, affection, socialization, and training they need.

If you think this dog breed could be the right fit for you, learn more about them, and then check out the available Neapolitan Mastiff puppies. Who knows? You could end up finding your new best friend!