With the surge in popularity of Neapolitan Mastiff dogs, you will end up seeing several venues where you can get one for your family. Despite the endlessly available stores in the marketplace for purchasing puppies, there are only two options we highly recommend that you consider: contact a reputable breeder or visit your local animal shelter.
Research thoroughly before you get yourself into a transaction let alone close a deal. You have to set certain expectations and see which breeder or option will satisfy your objectives more. If you’re having a hard time finding legit places and websites, worry no more as we have those listed and more only here in this article!
What to Know Before Buying a Neapolitan Mastiff Puppy
Photo from: neapolitanmastifflovers (IG)The Neapolitan Mastiff is not for everyone. It is worth noting that he does have a unique appearance, but beauty is in the eye of the beholder! This Italian Mastiff which is also known as the Mastino has a lot of qualities you should know about before you conclude that your home needs a puppy of this breed.
So, what’s so special about the Mastino?
Despite his ginormous build, this dog has a gentle and even disposition. He is neither rambunctious nor intentionally clumsy, but rather very careful, especially when he’s around your kids. Although he moves at a slow pace, it might not be the right time to get a Mastino puppy if your kids are still too young.
He’s a great guard dog as well. A true defender of homes and properties. He is alert and the type a stranger shouldn’t mess with. He’s intelligent and can act on his own, so training can be quite a challenge. However, with a few treats and a generous display of affection, you can instantly bribe him to obey you.
Places to Get Your Neapolitan Mastiff Puppy
Now that you have learned the general overview of the Mastino’s temperament, it is time to further discuss the possible places where you can buy a puppy of this kind. Thousands of dog owners all over the world always have these as their top choices to consider:
Shelter Homes
Although pets bring joy to many families, some still end up becoming the new arrivals in various shelter homes in the US. Some owners may have given them up due to their incapacity to take care of them further while their dogs can be victims of abuse and are in dire need to feel what love is again.
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) has recorded that around 3.1 million dogs enter adoption or shelter homes each year. There might have been a decline in number from 3.9 million to just 3.1 million, but still, the statistic remains high. Neapolitan Mastiffs are just among the breeds that are included in this numerical data.
Often, owners give up this dog when they realize that the breed is too much for them. It could be that they can’t cope with his drooling behavior or they can no longer meet its requirements to live a healthy life.
From a Reputable Breeder
If you spent a considerable amount of time searching every local shelter for your Mastino puppy but to no avail, a reputable breeder is next on your list. Go for those who have the reputation as legitimate breeders as you will have more assurance that you will receive a perfectly healthy pup.
Trusted and experienced breeders usually focus on just one to two breeds. Anything more than that should get you researching more about the breeder and find out if the breeding facilities are in good condition.
The environment has to be relaxing, calm, and positive. Dogs and their puppies are socialized and healthy.
You can easily contact a breeder by attending American Kennel Club (AKC)
events that feature your favorite Neapolitan Mastiff breed. You can also check out the directory of Neapolitan Mastiff breeders from dog clubs or organizations.
Should I Consider Puppy Mills?
Puppy mills are the worst places for dogs. They should not even be on your list of places to visit. Dog fanciers and animal lovers highly recommend that you avoid them at all costs. What keeps them in business is due to some who still buy dogs from mills due to “cheaper” prices, but the truth is told, they can potentially spend more once health issues and genetic diseases kick in.
You can try to see how the atmosphere and the environment are like in a puppy mill. Dogs are confined in small cages, puppies are mostly unattended and not properly taken care of, while some others in worst-case scenarios, are in the farthest corner, sick and dying, unnoticed by owners.
Breedings in such a place are far from ethical. Backyard breeders are more focused on profiting rather than producing dogs of high caliber.
Top 5 Websites You Should Bookmark
Learning that by going for wise decisions such as adopting or resorting to dealing with a reputable breeder, we have listed down below the top 5 websites to visit once you have concluded that the Neapolitan Mastiff dog is right for you. Of course, it remains a responsibility that you tediously research all prospective places before getting yourself into a transaction.
- AKC Marketplace. The AKC Marketplace is renowned to have contacts with some of the most trusted breeders in America. AKC-certified breeders in this website’s directory have proven themselves to be trustworthy and it shows through the dogs they sell.
- Knuckleheads Farms. A true Neapolitan breeding facility! Knuckleheads Farms is an AKC National Breed Club Member. The dogs they sell can compete in AKC events due to their conformation.
- EDIN Farms. All Neapolitan Mastiff puppies are raised in the breeder’s home which made family buyers happy! Edin Farms is also an AKC National Breed Club Member and they boast of their dogs who pass the breed standards.
- Love Wrinkles. Love Wrinkles has a penchant for Neapolitan Mastiffs. It is guaranteed that the breeders are reliable and responsible. The place is located in Nappanee, Indiana in case you want to visit.
- Rogue Bull Farm and Kennel. Philip Very is the breeder in Rogue Bull Farm and Kennel. He specializes in Neapolitan Mastiffs and he raises them in a family farm where the dogs can also interact with cows and other animals. The dogs you’ll find here are AKC-approved too!
How to Avoid Pet Scams
Scammers can’t wait to sell their sickly puppies and you don’t want to become their victim. Here are proven ways to avoid rampant pet scams:
- Know the average price of the Neapolitan Mastiff in the area you’re buying it from.
- Check the pictures sent to you by the breeder by using the reverse-image search.
- Check the breeder’s reputation online. Bad reviews and complaints are red flags.
- Consider adopting instead of buying a pet online.
- Meet the dog and the breeder in person.
- Don’t be convinced by how professional the website looks.
- Pay online via credit card in case of fraud or dispute.
