Neapolitan Mastiff Temperament

Neapolitan Mastiff TemperamentHere’s the bottom line: Neapolitan Mastiffs are not the dog for everybody. However, when paired with the right person, these dogs can be a dream. Neapolitan Mastiff’s temperament is the number one thing that should be considered when deciding whether or not to own this breed of dog.

General Neapolitan Mastiff Temperament

Neapolitan Mastiffs are extremely loving and affectionate. Their huge size can be intimidating, and their excessive drooling may be off putting, but in reality they’re huge sweethearts. Many Mastiffs are used as guard dogs because of their serious and protective demeanor. They’re extremely intelligent and tend to attach strongly to their owner. They’re very quiet, tending to only bark when necessary. However, the kicker with this dog is the amount of socialization they must be exposed to in order to get along with other people, as well as other types of animals. When socialized with other people and other animals, such as cats, they tend to behave well around them. This doesn’t mean they won’t get wary around strangers, but socialization does help them warm up quicker.

Who Is A Compatible Owner?

Mastiffs need strong, dominant owners who are willing to give them structure and plenty of exercise. Consistency is the key when it comes to this type of dog. An owner of a Neapolitan Mastiff should have plenty of time to devote to their dogs. People who work long hours or have some other obligation that would keep them from their dog should not own this type of dog. Extensive training is involved with this type of dog in order for it to flourish. While they need extensive obedience training and tend to be very serious, they also thrive on affection and require affectionate owners who praise their dogs well and give them plenty of love.

Why Is It Important?

Neapolitan Mastiffs are working dogs, so they do best when given a job. The Neapolitan Mastiff’s temperament can determine what kind of work they would do well and what functions they should not serve. Putting a Neapolitan Mastiff in a position it can’t fulfill could be potentially dangerous.

As mentioned before, this type of dog makes a wonderful guard dog due to its serious nature and possessiveness. However, other breeds that are considered guard dogs have also been used as fighting dogs, but Neapolitans are not suited for this. They’re very possessive and protective, but do not tend to be aggressive without provocation.

Neapolitan Mastiff Temperament 2

Perhaps the best function for this type of dog is a simple family dog. Neapolitan Mastiffs would be ideal for guarding a family, and take great pride in its work. Once socialized and attached to each family member, the Mastiff would protect each fiercely. In case of a home invasion, a Neapolitan Mastiff is the perfect dog to protect its family. As long as each member of the family is able to remain dominant and use peaceful leadership skills, this type of dog would remain affectionate, loyal, and protective.

Neapolitan Mastiffs do also serve well as companion dogs to one person, as long as they are well socialized with other people so they don’t become excessively protective. A strong leader who gives plenty of love and provides plenty of training would find a wonderful companion dog in a Neapolitan Mastiff.

Other Fun

Facts About Neapolitan Mastiffs

  • Heat very quickly.
  • Quite the shedders.
  • Prone to obesity if not exercised properly.
  • Males weigh up 200 pounds. Females 175.
  • Live up to 10 years.
  • First bred to fight in battle in ancient Rome.
  • Very clumsy!
  • Most are known as giant lap dogs.

Neapolitan Mastiffs are incredible dogs, but aren’t meant for everybody. Being aware of the temperament of any dog can help you decide if a dog is right for you. A strong, serious, protective, yet affectionate and loving dog, Neapolitan Mastiffs are incredibly special dogs and deserving of a structured, loving home.