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Step 1
Feed your pup for optimal growth. Diet is vitally important to the growth of this breed of dog. A raw diet is recommended, consisting mostly of chicken, beef, bones, and eggs. It is important that the diet is balanced, and it's also important that your pup does not gain too much weight while he is growing, as that would create hip and joint problems.
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Step 2
Vaccinate and worm your pet. Also, put your new pup on heart worm preventative as soon as your veterinarian suggests it. Your breeder should have furnished you with his medical chart, which will be updated by your veterinarian on each visit.
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Step 3
Monitor your mastiff pup's social skills. Because this breed is notorious for its serious attitude and stubbornness, you should not allow any rough play or biting, as this will be an enormous dog when grown. He could hurt you or others without intending to do so.
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Step 4
Be patient. The Neapolitan mastiff puppy will be a "pup" well into his second year, as it takes the very large breeds that long to completely mature physically. Be gentle and firm; insist that your pup respect you.
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Step 5
Supervise your new dog's outdoor time. Make sure he has lots of fresh water and shade. Mastiff dogs can get heat stroke if precautions are not taken. Other dangers to young pups left unobserved outdoors include theft, attacks from other animals, and chewing or swallowing something other than his food or approved toys. When buying your pet chew toys, check to see that he can't chew it into pieces that could be swallowed. Foreign bodies in his intestine could necessitate surgery to remove them, putting your dog's life in danger.
