Salvatore Scherma, April 21, 2006. "The bones of its members (four quarters) must be powerful and be able to support beneath large affluent full paws with toes well arched, a cat like paw". Words of knowledge and agreement at Eterno Neapolitan Mastiffs. We strive for an "ideal model" which Salvatore continues to say!
Previously I have mentioned that I have had dogs of different Breeds, and that when I encountered the Mastino Napoletano it has stopped me, because it is the Maximum for me. On the Mastini you can read centuries of history form each of his folds and wrinkles, travel back in time, you would see it next to the Roman Legions, in the sands to fight with other great animals, or to guard neighbor hood Villas. In his face you read it's old pride and great loyalty. I mention this, what can I say about my Ideal model?
Of the old Mastini we only have few representations, of bas-relifs or sculptures such as the ones representing in the Palace Caserta. The genetic patrimony in which we work undoubtedly in the centuries has co-broken. I do not know if it has been a good or bad thing for the Breed, but something is that today we have the possibility to continue to admire this old Molosser, in which many of us risk in plain view the risk of producing the ideal dog.
My ideal Mastino Napoletano is a perfect dog of stature, (possibly at the very limit of the maximum in stature), with a wide trunk, long and powerful, the bones of its members (four quarters) must be powerful and be able to support beneath large affluent full paws with toes well arched, a cat like paw, the hind quarters have to be in line with the right corners and muscular masses very developed. The thorax must be ample with a visible breastbone and almost lavishing to surpass his elbow, the head must be of great dimensions, with a square nose and powerful, it must have beautiful folds and expression of its wrinkles, but they must not be confusing, because otherwise the Mastini would not have a pretty expression, the dewlap must be well divided and visible, but never excessive, because excesses of skin can harm and concerns me.
Movement is a principal thing of mine, the step and walking movement must almost be loose and powerful as a bear, the trot must be loose and while walking it must cover a great deal of territory, and the push from the posteriors must be very potent. Finally the temperament, my ideal Mastini has to be a serious dog, calm, arrogant, friendly when it should be, and an optimal guard of the property.
Dedicated kennel with an imperishable love and passion for the Neapolitan Mastiff, as reflected in our kennel name ‘Eterno’.
