The price range of a Neapolitan Mastiff puppy can vary wildly. This massive canine is on the list of expensive dog breeds since its price can go up to $5,500. If factors are put into consideration, the price may either go up or down.
The Neapolitan Mastiff, also known as the Mastino, is not something you would see in your day-to-day life and if you are a fan of this breed, why not get one for your own? As long as you have what it takes to handle the responsibility of owning this gentle giant, there’s nothing much to worry about.
But first, before you contact your breeder or visit an animal shelter, let’s learn about his potential price, shall we?
The Initial Price of a Neapolitan Mastiff
As mentioned, the Neapolitan Mastiff puppy can be priced for up to $5,500. However, he is commonly sold for an average of $2,600. It depends on the kind of quality you go for and pet-quality Mastinos will always be cheaper than those who are of show-quality.
If these prices are too much or even if you can afford them, it is best recommended that you adopt rather than shop for your new puppy. Thousands of dogs end up in shelter homes yearly and by embracing one, you are already making a big difference. Not only would you give a dog a new chance to be genuinely loved, but a dog leaving the shelter is also allowing a new one to be taken care of.
Adoption centers typically only ask a fee of around $300 to cover up all the expenses that were made whilst keeping your adoptee.
8 Factors That Can Impact the Price
You might have noticed the varying prices set for every puppy no matter the breed. Some are considerably light for the pocket while others can cost someone several thousands of dollars.
Truth be told, prices are not set freely by anyone. There are a variety of reasons why a Neapolitan Mastiff’s puppy price is set the way it is. Here are the factors that impact the cost:
Pedigree
If you go for a purebred Neapolitan Mastiff, expect to pay a bit more than the other that is mixed. There are several reasons why people prefer purebred Neapolitan Mastiffs. Some reason out that a purebred puppy is predictable and they are willing to pay more for that.
Breeder’s Reputation
Mastinos that are being bred by breeders who carry with them an impressive reputation will be sold at a higher price. It is a competitive market out there. Those who have experience and are usually recommended by dog buyers are seen to be more trustworthy compared to novice breeders.
Bloodline
If the Mastino puppy comes from a superb bloodline and if his parents are of show-quality, this gives the breeder more reason to add up the price. A purebred and high-quality pup is most likely to pass breed standards due to his lineage.
Medical Expenses
Reputable breeders who are serious about their business will aim to sell out Mastino puppies that are healthy. They will bring their pups to the vet for a series of health tests to ensure that all of them have been dewormed or have received all their shots. Evaluations and tests are expensive and breeders shoulder these costs. It’s just reasonable to set the price they put for each puppy.
Breed’s Popularity
Demand is another thing. If Neapolitan Mastiffs are rare in a particular city, a breeder of this dog will take demand and supply into consideration. The popularity always affects the price. For example, since the Mastino is a guard dog, families who go after this dog breed who live in a city where there’s less security will prompt breeders to inflate the prices.
Age
Most people highly prefer Mastinos who are young than those who are already approaching adulthood. Expect an 8-week old pup to be more pricey than a dog that is in his first year already.
Coat Color
The rarest color of the Neapolitan Mastiff breed is black and this is the most desirable coat shade. Some Mastinos who have a blue coat sometimes look dark enough to look black, however, a real black Neapolitan Mastiff will be unmistakable when he’s placed in sunlight.
Sex
Choosing what gender your puppy should be is also a factor. By going for a female Mastino, you are given the chance to start your own breeding business.
Should I Consider Buying From a Puppy Mill?
No, puppy mills are mostly unethical. Backyard breeders often don’t give any importance to the well-being of their dogs but rather to the profits they can make out of them. You can indeed save quite a few bucks by purchasing a Neapolitan Mastiff puppy from a mill, unfortunately, there are lots of drawbacks to this option.
- Poor Environment. Breeders from puppy mills try their hardest to maximize the space which is why cages confine too many dogs than what these should normally accommodate. When there are too many canines in an area, it is to be expected that some cannot be looked after. Dirt, diseases, and other unpleasant effects could occur, making the environment toxic for these poor animals.
- Lack of Veterinarian Care. These unfortunate breeding facilities don’t often have veterinarian care. Instead of spending for a dog who has issues, they’d rather leave it to suffer. And, because it is cramped inside, dogs who have low immune systems are vulnerable to diseases that were left untreated.
- Constant Breeding. It is not advised to breed a female dog often. Sadly, since backyard breeders have their eyes to the future money they’d make, they get their dames mated as often as possible. This can be detrimental to the dogs’ health as well as to their offspring.
4 Things to Look For Before Buying a Neapolitan Mastiff Puppy From a Breeder
No doubt, the Neapolitan Mastiff is an endearing and wonderful pet that you already might be considering having. But, before you go looking for the right place to get your dream Mastiff, remember these 4 things which you should look out for in a breeder:
- The breeder must have lots of pictures and videos of the puppy he or she is selling.
- Inspect if legitimate documents are proving that the puppy in question has completed several health tests and has been registered with a reputable organization such as the American Kennel Club.
- Go for a breeder who socializes with the dogs and puppies and specializes in 1 to 2 breeds only.
- The breeder must be able to show you the parents of the puppy and the breeding facilities.
How Much Would It Cost to Own a Neapolitan Mastiff Throughout His Lifetime?
Now that you have known the potential price tags of a single Neapolitan Mastiff, it would be better if you also know how much owning this dog would cost you throughout his lifetime. By providing all his basic needs like food, crate, toys, and other necessities, you might splurge at least $23,000!
