Italian Dog Breeds
Italian dogs are diverse in the work they do. The large breeds, like the Spinone Italiano, Bracco Italiano, and Cane Corso, are efficient working dogs bred to hunt, guard homes, and herd livestock. Smaller breeds like the Maltese and Bolognese fit the bill of a perfect companion dog.
List of Dog Breeds of Italy
- Bergamasco Sheepdog
- Bolognese
- Bracco Italiano (Italian Pointer)
- Cane Corso
- Italian Greyhound
- Lagotto Romagnolo
- Maremma Sheepdog
- Neapolitan Mastiff
- Spinone Italiano
- Volpino Italiano
- Cirneco dell’Etna
- Segugio Italiano
- Saint Bernard
- Sardinian Shepherd Dog
- Maltese
- Segugio dell’Appennino
- Segugio Maremmano
- Lupo Italiano
- Cane Paratore
- Cane Pastore Biellese (Cane di Oropa)
Most of the popular Italian breeds gained the American Kennel Club’s (AKC) recognition in the 21st century. The newest on the list is Bracco Italiano, recognized as AKC’s 200th breed on the 29th of June, 2022.
FAQ’s
What are the main types of Italian dog breeds?
The main types of Italian dog breeds generally fall into two categories: working dogs and companion dogs. Larger breeds like the Cane Corso and Spinone Italiano were developed for guarding, herding, and hunting, while smaller breeds such as the Maltese and Bolognese were bred specifically for companionship.
What kind of work were large Italian dog breeds bred for?
Large Italian dog breeds were traditionally bred for a variety of demanding working roles. These historic tasks included guarding property and families, herding and protecting livestock from predators, and assisting hunters in locating and retrieving game. Breeds like the Bracco Italiano and Maremma Sheepdog exemplify these functions.
Is the Cane Corso an Italian guard dog?
Yes, the Cane Corso is an Italian guard dog with ancient origins as a protector and hunter. This large mastiff-type breed was developed to guard property, families, and livestock. Its imposing presence, intelligence, and loyal nature made it a highly effective and valued guardian throughout Italian history.
When did the Bracco Italiano get AKC recognition?
The Bracco Italiano received official recognition from the American Kennel Club (AKC) on June 29, 2022. This ancient hunting breed, also known as the Italian Pointer, was officially welcomed as the AKC’s 200th recognized breed, highlighting the growing popularity of historic Italian dogs in the US.
Are Maltese and Bolognese dogs from Italy?
Yes, both the Maltese and the Bolognese are small companion breeds originating from Italy. The Bolognese comes from the Italian city of Bologna and was a favorite among nobility. The Maltese has ancient roots in the central Mediterranean area and has long been associated with Italy.
What is the Lagotto Romagnolo known for?
The Lagotto Romagnolo is an Italian breed primarily known for its exceptional ability to hunt for truffles. Originally a water retriever from the Romagna sub-region of Italy, its keen sense of smell and diligent nature made it the world’s foremost specialized truffle-hunting dog, a role it still holds.
Are Italian dog breeds good for first-time owners?
Some Italian dog breeds can be suitable for first-time owners, particularly smaller companion types like the Bolognese. However, many large working breeds, such as the Cane Corso or Neapolitan Mastiff, possess strong protective instincts and require extensive socialization and experienced handling, making them challenging for novices.
