i want a neopolitan bull mastiff, but not sure what to expect?

[SizzleSquid]

Ive got two cats and a smallish house, though plenty of space for excersising. I have not owned a dog before, and have read that for big dogs they have lovely temperaments. Is this true? i also have three cats. Can anyone advise me please on this dog.

[SizzleSquid]

ive three cats, sorry

[jules77]

not sure what your cats would think, they may get used to a new dog eventually, but I think a bull mastiff is a large and strong breed to have as your first dog. Take a look at this site, it may help answer some of your concerns.
http://www.bullmastiff-rescue.org.uk/

[SizzleSquid]

thanks hun, i registered and got loads info!!

[wolf63]

As a teenager our family got a tiny bull mastiff/GSD cross puppy and he was just like Scooby Doo. He was a big soft lump who was the third child in the family.

However, even as a crossbreed, he was very strong and very stubborn. I think that your cats would be safe, they are not very energetic compared to Collies etc.

I think that we were very lucky to get a dog with such a gentle personality.

Whatever breed of dog you choose to get I wish you luck.

[lankeela]

There is a big difference between Neapolitan Mastiffs and Bull Mastiffs. They are totally different breeds with different temperaments. Neapolitans have a much more laid back temperament, but are still strong dogs. Bull Mastiffs are much more outgoing and active, and need a lot of control and exercise. They were bred to be gamekeepers dogs to take on poachers. Personally I would not recommend either one for a first time dog. Why not get something much easier to manage like a Labrador or a Golden Retriever.

[lankeela]

From the people who know:

http://www.theneapolitanmastiffclubuk.com/owni ngamastino.htm

[jules77]

I agree that they are a large strong dog for a first timer, but I also think that labradors and retrievers are very very active. I have numerous friends that have them, and they come in my house like a tornado - I wouldnt be able to cope with one of them, compared to three collies!

[kita1]

Be prepared for all your cats to leave home! A dog this size can reach most high spots in the house where cats would normally flee to!

I have a giant breed dog, the cats in my area used to think they were safe jumping up onto walls until he came on the scene! I took him round my friends house, she has cats and dogs (GSD's), the cats threw a fit and badly scratched her when she tried to move one from the top of the microwave, they were terrified - even though they were used to strange dogs.

You might just get away with it if you got a puppy, but even then you might find the cats leave home.

If you are not prepared to turn over a seperate living room to your dog (mine has the front room, we have the back) and totally re adapt your kitchen (these dogs can easily help themselves to things on the work surfaces and cooker) then I would look for something smaller.

[jules77]

if you like bigger dogs, my friend has standard poodles, they are really clever, not boistrous, very loyal, good with children and good house dogs - only problem is they need clipping regularly, but she does them herself and gives them a type of lamb cut, but at least they dont moult, they are very clean and dont have a doggy smell associated with some dogs even when wet!!

[pigbin]

why do you have to have a big dog pardon me if you think i am rude but does it make you feel big and strong but i feel most people with big dogs like that are lacking in something because the big dog make up for what tjhey are lacking in