Mastinaro

Mastinaro is the Neapolitan term used to describe a Neapolitan mastiff breeder who has sacrificed time and money and, more important, many years of his life to breeding these dogs. Mastinari made a massive impact on the regeneration of the breed post World War II, and the word is used to describe them by fellow breeders as a term of honor and respect.

Famous Mastinari

The most well-known Mastinaro is likely the late Mario Querci of Kennel Di Ponzano. An association has been named in his memory, as is a world leading show called the Trofeo Mario Querci, which takes place on a weekend each year in late September or early October in Pistoia, Italy.

Mastinari of today

There are very few Mastinari left. One is Raffaele Scognamiglio, known as Zio Raffaele (Uncle Raffaele), 80 years old and still breeding Neapolitan Mastiffs. The other is Umberto Miranda, known as Don Baffone, now with only one female Neapolitan mastiff. At 78 years, he still attends dog shows in Naples.

Misuse of the term "Mastinaro"

There is some confusion about the proper use of the term "Mastinaro." It is often used to refer to all breeders of Neapolitan mastiffs, but in Naples it is used only for Neapolitan men who have made great personal sacrifice to keep and breed superior specimens of Neapolitan mastiff, from whom many of today's award-winning Neapolitans are descended.

Notes

• BullMastiff and Neapolitan Mastiff Rescue
• "il Mastino Napoletano", the official site of the Associazione Trofeo Mario Querci (Italian)