13 Italian Dog Breeds: Complete Guide to Italy's Native Dogs
Explore 13 Italian dog breeds with detailed profiles, comparison data, health insights, and a decision framework to find the right Italian breed for your lifestyle.
Why Italian Dog Breeds Deserve Your Attention
Italy's native dog breeds span an extraordinary range — from the ancient livestock guardians of the Apennine Mountains to the elegant sighthounds that once raced across Renaissance estates. These breeds were shaped by centuries of working alongside Italian farmers, hunters, and families, resulting in dogs with deeply ingrained purpose and character.
If you're researching Italian dog breeds, you've likely noticed that most guides offer only surface-level descriptions. This article goes further: we break down 13 authentic Italian breeds with real data on exercise requirements, health screening costs, temperament traits, and living-situation compatibility — so you can make an informed decision rather than choosing based on looks alone.
How We Selected These Breeds
Every breed on this list meets all four criteria below:
- Italian origin: The breed was developed in Italy and is recognized by the Ente Nazionale Cinofilia Italiana (ENCI), Italy's national kennel club, and/or the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI).
- Active breed population: The breed has a documented, living population — not extinct or functionally extinct.
- Accessibility: Puppies or rescue dogs are obtainable (though some rare breeds require international search and import).
- Documented health data: Sufficient veterinary literature exists to provide meaningful health screening guidance.
We excluded breeds that are primarily Italian by name only (e.g., breeds developed elsewhere and simply named after Italian regions) and breeds with populations so small that responsible acquisition is nearly impossible for most owners.
Italian Dog Breeds: Ranked and Profiled
We've organized these 13 breeds into three groups by primary function — Guardians & Working Dogs, Hunting & Sporting Dogs, and Companion Dogs — because a breed's original job is the single best predictor of its behavior in your home today.
Group 1: Guardians & Working Dogs
1. Cane Corso — Large / Guardian-Protector
Key trait: Intense loyalty paired with natural wariness of strangers — this is a dog that assesses every new person who enters your property.
The Cane Corso descends from Roman war dogs (canis pugnax) and was historically used to guard farms, drive cattle, and hunt wild boar in southern Italy. Males stand 25–27.5 inches (64–70 cm) and weigh 99–110 lb (45–50 kg); females are slightly smaller at 88–99 lb (40–45 kg). Lifespan averages 9–12 years. They require 60–90 minutes of structured daily exercise — not just a walk, but purposeful activity like obedience drills, weighted pulls, or agility. Early socialization (8–16 weeks) is non-negotiable; poorly socialized Corsi can develop fear-based aggression. Expect to pay $2,000–$4,500 for a puppy from an AKC-registered breeder who performs OFA hip and elbow evaluations.
Why it made the list: The Cane Corso is the most popular Italian breed in the United States (ranked #21 in AKC 2025 registrations) and the entry point for most people researching Italian dog breeds. Its combination of intelligence, trainability, and protective instinct makes it uniquely versatile — but also uniquely demanding of experienced handling.
2. Maremma Sheepdog (Cane da Pastore Maremmano-Abruzzese) — Extra-Large / Livestock Guardian
Key trait: Independent decision-making — this breed was selected to protect flocks without human direction, meaning it will make its own judgments about threats.
Originating in the Maremma region of Tuscany and the Abruzzo mountains, this ancient flock guardian stands 23.5–28.5 inches (60–73 cm) and weighs 66–100 lb (30–45 kg). Lifespan is 11–13 years. The Maremma's thick white coat requires brushing 2–3 times per week, with heavy seasonal shedding. Unlike herding dogs, Maremmas don't move livestock — they bond with them and position themselves between the flock and predators. They need 45–60 minutes of daily exercise but are relatively calm indoors. A key challenge: their independent nature means they respond poorly to repetitive obedience drills. Positive reinforcement with varied, short sessions works best. Puppy price: $1,500–$3,000 from working-line breeders.
Why it made the list: For rural property owners seeking a genuine livestock guardian or a calm, large-family companion with low prey drive toward household pets, the Maremma is Italy's premier pastoral breed. Their temperament is markedly different from the Cane Corso — gentler with children, less reactive to visitors, but far less biddable.
3. Neapolitan Mastiff (Mastino Napoletano) — Extra-Large / Estate Guardian
Key trait: Imposing physical presence combined with a surprisingly sedentary indoor temperament — this is a dog that looks fierce but spends most of its time sleeping at your feet.
The Neapolitan Mastiff was developed in the Naples region as an estate and property guardian. Males stand 26–31 inches (66–79 cm) and weigh 130–155 lb (60–70 kg); females weigh 110–130 lb (50–60 kg). Lifespan is 7–9 years — one of the shortest among recognized breeds, largely due to cardiac disease and joint degeneration. Their signature loose skin and deep wrinkles require daily cleaning to prevent bacterial and yeast infections (budget $30–$50/month for wrincare supplies). Drooling is constant and copious — this is not optional. Exercise needs are moderate (30–45 minutes/day). Puppy price: $2,500–$5,000 from health-tested breeders.
Why it made the list: The Neapolitan Mastiff is iconic among Italian dog breeds and fills a niche no other breed occupies as effectively: a massive, visually deterrent guardian that is affectionate and docile with its own family. However, the short lifespan and high maintenance requirements mean this breed demands realistic expectations.
4. Bergamasco Shepherd — Large / Herding-Guardian
Key trait: The only Italian breed with a naturally forming felted coat — its unique "flocks" (not cords) develop without manual separation and provide insulation against Alpine cold.
From the Italian Alps near Bergamo, this herding breed stands 22–23.5 inches (56–60 cm) and weighs 57–84 lb (26–38 kg). Lifespan is 13–15 years, notably long for a large breed. The coat reaches full maturity around age 5 and requires minimal brushing once flocks form, but bathing and drying can take 4–6 hours. Bergamascos are versatile: equally capable of herding, agility, and therapy work. They need 60 minutes of daily exercise and thrive with a job. Their temperament is described as "patient and observant" — less intense than a Border Collie, more independent than a German Shepherd. Puppy price: $1,800–$3,500 (rare in the US; expect waitlists of 6–12 months).
Why it made the list: The Bergamasco offers something rare among Italian dog breeds: a large, athletic herding dog with a genuinely easygoing temperament and excellent longevity. It's the best Italian breed choice for active families who want a herding-type dog without the neurotic intensity common in that group.
5. Lagotto Romagnolo — Medium / Water Retriever-Truffle Hunter
Key trait: The world's only breed specifically developed for truffle hunting — its extraordinary nose and water-resistant curly coat made it indispensable in the marshlands of Romagna.
This medium-sized breed stands 16–19 inches (41–48 cm) and weighs 24–35 lb (11–16 kg). Lifespan is 15–17 years, among the longest of all Italian breeds. The hypoallergenic curly coat requires professional grooming every 6–8 weeks ($60–$90 per session). Lagotti are highly trainable, eager to please, and excel at scent work, agility, and obedience. They need 45–60 minutes of daily exercise with strong mental stimulation — puzzle toys and nosework games are ideal. Their truffle-hunting heritage means they will dig and sniff obsessively if not given an outlet. Puppy price: $2,500–$5,000 (growing in popularity; expect 3–6 month waitlists).
Why it made the list: The Lagotto Romagnolo is the most versatile Italian breed for modern pet life: hypoallergenic, medium-sized, long-lived, highly trainable, and genuinely good with children and other pets. It consistently ranks as the top recommendation for first-time owners interested in Italian breeds.
Group 2: Hunting & Sporting Dogs
6. Italian Greyhound (Piccolo Levriero Italiano) — Small / Sighthound
Key trait: A miniature sighthound with a 2,000-year lineage — excavated remains from Pompeii confirm this breed's form has changed remarkably little since Roman times.
Standing 13–15 inches (33–38 cm) and weighing 7–14 lb (3–6 kg), the Italian Greyhound is the smallest of Italy's native breeds. Lifespan is 14–15 years. Their short coat requires virtually no grooming, but they are extremely sensitive to cold — a fitted sweater is necessary below 50°F (10°C). They need 30–45 minutes of daily exercise, ideally including a safe off-leash sprint in a fenced area. Italian Greyhounds are prone to leg fractures (especially in puppies under 18 months) due to their fine bone structure — avoid jumping from furniture. Dental disease is prevalent; daily tooth brushing and annual cleanings are essential. Puppy price: $1,500–$3,000.
Why it made the list: For apartment dwellers and urban owners, the Italian Greyhound is the most practical Italian breed. It combines sighthound elegance with apartment-compatible size, low grooming needs, and a genuinely affectionate disposition. It's also one of the most affordable Italian breeds to maintain long-term.
7. Bracco Italiano — Large / Pointer-Retriever
Key trait: Italy's answer to the German Shorthaired Pointer — a dual-purpose pointing and retrieving dog with a distinctive trotting gait unlike any other sporting breed.
The Bracco stands 21.5–26.5 inches (55–67 cm) and weighs 55–88 lb (25–40 kg). Lifespan is 10–12 years. They have a short, dense coat requiring minimal grooming. Exercise needs are high: 60–90 minutes of vigorous activity daily, ideally including swimming or field work. The Bracco is known for its "soft" temperament — it responds poorly to harsh correction and thrives with patient, reward-based training. Health screening should include OFA hips and cardiac evaluation. They are notably vocal, with a deep bark they use readily. Puppy price: $1,800–$3,500 (rare in the US; most breeders are in Italy or require import).
Why it made the list: Among Italian hunting breeds, the Bracco Italiano is the most complete sporting dog — equally capable as a pointer, retriever, and family companion. For hunters and active outdoor enthusiasts, it offers a rare alternative to more common pointing breeds with a distinctly calmer home demeanor.
8. Spinone Italiano — Large / Wirehaired Pointer
Key trait: A rugged, wirehaired pointing dog built for pushing through dense Italian brush — its thick coat and patient temperament make it one of the most resilient sporting breeds.
The Spinone stands 22.5–27.5 inches (57–70 cm) and weighs 62–86 lb (28–39 kg). Lifespan is 10–12 years. The wiry coat needs hand-stripping 2–3 times per year (or clipping, which softens texture). Exercise needs are 60 minutes daily. Spinoni are famously patient and gentle — often described as "clownish" and "goofy" — making them one of the best Italian breeds for families with young children. They are slower-maturing than other sporting breeds, often not reaching full emotional maturity until age 3. Health screening should include OFA hips, elbows, and cardiac evaluation, plus a DNA test for cerebellar ataxia (a breed-specific neurodegenerative condition). Puppy price: $1,500–$3,000.
Why it made the list: The Spinone fills a unique niche: a large sporting breed with the gentle, patient temperament typically found in retrievers. It's the best Italian breed for families who want an athletic outdoor companion that is also safe and reliable around toddlers.
9. Cirneco dell'Etna — Small-Medium / Sighthound-Hound
Key trait: A Sicilian sighthound-hound cross adapted to hunting rabbits on the volcanic slopes of Mount Etna — one of the few breeds that can work in extreme heat with minimal water.
Standing 16.5–19.5 inches (42–50 cm) and weighing 18–27 lb (8–12 kg), the Cirneco is compact but athletic. Lifespan is 12–14 years. The short, sleek coat needs only occasional brushing. Exercise requirements are 45–60 minutes daily with opportunities to run. Cirnechi are more independent than Italian Greyhounds and have stronger prey drive — they will chase small animals if given the chance. They are vocal and alert, making decent watchdogs despite their small size. Health issues are relatively few, but patellar luxation screening is recommended. Puppy price: $1,200–$2,500 (very rare in the US).
Why it made the list: The Cirneco dell'Etna is the best Italian breed for warm-climate owners who want a small-to-medium sighthound with more substance and stamina than an Italian Greyhound. Its heat tolerance and low grooming needs make it ideal for the American South and Southwest.
Group 3: Companion & Rare Breeds
10. Bolognese — Small / Companion
Key trait: A fluffy white companion dog favored by Italian nobility since the Renaissance — its temperament is notably calmer and less yappy than many small breeds.
The Bolognese stands 10–12 inches (25–30 cm) and weighs 5.5–9 lb (2.5–4 kg). Lifespan is 12–14 years. The long, fluffy white coat requires daily brushing and professional grooming every 4–6 weeks ($45–$70 per session). Unlike the Bichon Frisé, the Bolognese has a more reserved, serious demeanor — it bonds deeply with one or two people and can be aloof with strangers. Exercise needs are low (20–30 minutes daily). They are prone to separation anxiety if left alone for more than 4–5 hours regularly. Health screening should include patellar luxation and cardiac evaluation. Puppy price: $2,000–$4,000.
Why it made the list: Among Italian companion breeds, the Bolognese offers the best balance of small size, low exercise needs, and a genuinely calm (rather than hyper) temperament. It's the top Italian breed recommendation for retirees, work-from-home professionals, and apartment dwellers who want a devoted lap dog.
11. Italian Segugio (Segugio Italiano) — Medium-Large / Scent Hound
Key trait: Italy's primary scent hound, bred to hunt hare and wild boar in packs — its melodious howl and relentless tracking instinct define its character.
Two coat varieties exist: shorthaired (Segugio Italiano a Pelo Raso) and wirehaired (Segugio Italiano a Pelo Forte). Both stand 18.5–23 inches (47–58 cm) and weigh 40–62 lb (18–28 kg). Lifespan is 11–13 years. Exercise needs are high: 60–90 minutes daily, with a secure fence mandatory (they will follow a scent trail through any gap). Segugi are pack-oriented and do best with another dog in the household. Recall training is challenging — their scent drive overrides most obedience cues once they're on a trail. They are healthy and hardy with few breed-specific conditions. Puppy price: $1,000–$2,000 (rare outside Italy).
Why it made the list: The Segugio represents the authentic Italian hunting hound tradition and is an excellent choice for rural owners who want a pack-friendly, healthy, low-maintenance scent hound. However, their recall challenges and vocal nature make them unsuitable for suburban settings.
12. Cane Paratore (Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai) — Medium / Herding Dog
Key trait: A recently recognized northern Italian herding breed from the Lessinia mountains and Lagorai range — it fills the niche of a smaller, more manageable Alpine herder.
Standing 18–22 inches (46–56 cm) and weighing 33–55 lb (15–25 kg), the Cane Paratore is medium-sized with a weather-resistant medium-length coat. Lifespan is estimated at 12–14 years (limited data due to recent recognition). They are agile, intelligent, and responsive to training — closer in temperament to an Australian Shepherd than to the Maremma. Exercise needs are 60 minutes daily with mental challenges. This breed was only provisionally recognized by ENCI in recent years, so health data is still being compiled. Puppy price: $1,500–$3,000 (primarily available in northern Italy; import likely required).
Why it made the list: The Cane Paratore is included because it represents the newest addition to recognized Italian herding breeds and offers a medium-sized alternative to the large Maremma for owners who want Italian herding-dog temperament in a more manageable package.
13. Volpino Italiano — Small / Spitz Companion
Key trait: Italy's native spitz breed — a compact, fox-eared dog with a history stretching back to the Bronze Age lake-dwelling settlements of northern Italy.
The Volpino stands 10.5–12 inches (27–30 cm) and weighs 7–11 lb (3–5 kg). Lifespan is 14–16 years. The thick, stand-off coat requires brushing 2–3 times per week. Volpini are alert, vocal, and lively — they make excellent watchdogs despite their small size. Exercise needs are 30–40 minutes daily. They are generally healthy, but primary lens luxation (PLL) DNA testing is recommended. The breed nearly went extinct in the mid-20th century and remains rare outside Italy. Puppy price: $2,000–$4,500.
Why it made the list: The Volpino is the Italian alternative to the Japanese Spitz or Pomeranian for owners who want a small spitz-type companion with genuine historical roots and a slightly more robust, less fragile build than many toy breeds.
Italian Breeds at a Glance: Full Comparison Table
| Breed | Size | Weight (lb/kg) | Exercise (min/day) | Lifespan | Apartment OK? | Kid-Friendly |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cane Corso | Large | 88–110 / 40–50 | 60–90 | 9–12 yr | ❌ | ⚠️ Supervised |
| Maremma Sheepdog | XL | 66–100 / 30–45 | 45–60 | 11–13 yr | ❌ | ✅ Yes |
| Neapolitan Mastiff | XL | 110–155 / 50–70 | 30–45 | 7–9 yr | ❌ | ⚠️ Supervised |
| Bergamasco | Large | 57–84 / 26–38 | 60 | 13–15 yr | ❌ | ✅ Yes |
| Lagotto Romagnolo | Medium | 24–35 / 11–16 | 45–60 | 15–17 yr | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Italian Greyhound | Small | 7–14 / 3–6 | 30–45 | 14–15 yr | ✅ Yes | ⚠️ Older kids |
| Bracco Italiano | Large | 55–88 / 25–40 | 60–90 | 10–12 yr | ❌ | ✅ Yes |
| Spinone Italiano | Large | 62–86 / 28–39 | 60 | 10–12 yr | ❌ | ✅ Yes |
| Cirneco dell'Etna | Sm-Med | 18–27 / 8–12 | 45–60 | 12–14 yr | ⚠️ With yard | ✅ Yes |
| Bolognese | Small | 5.5–9 / 2.5–4 | 20–30 | 12–14 yr | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Segugio Italiano | Med-Lg | 40–62 / 18–28 | 60–90 | 11–13 yr | ❌ | ✅ Yes |
| Cane Paratore | Medium | 33–55 / 15–25 | 60 | 12–14 yr | ❌ | ✅ Yes |
| Volpino Italiano | Small | 7–11 / 3–5 | 30–40 | 14–16 yr | ✅ Yes | ⚠️ Older kids |
Decision Framework: Which Italian Breed Fits Your Life?
Choosing among Italian dog breeds comes down to matching your living situation, time availability, and experience level to the breed's core needs. Use this framework to narrow your top 3:
Step-by-Step Breed Selection Guide
- What is your living situation?
- Apartment, no yard → Italian Greyhound, Bolognese, Volpino Italiano, Lagotto Romagnolo
- House with fenced yard → Lagotto Romagnolo, Cirneco dell'Etna, Bergamasco, Spinone Italiano
- Rural property, 1+ acres → Cane Corso, Maremma Sheepdog, Bracco Italiano, Segugio Italiano
- How much daily exercise time can you commit?
- Under 30 minutes → Bolognese, Neapolitan Mastiff (low energy despite large size)
- 30–60 minutes → Italian Greyhound, Lagotto Romagnolo, Volpino Italiano, Cirneco dell'Etna
- 60–90+ minutes → Cane Corso, Bracco Italiano, Spinone Italiano, Bergamasco, Segugio Italiano
- What is your dog-handling experience?
- First-time owner → Lagotto Romagnolo, Spinone Italiano, Bolognese, Italian Greyhound
- Some experience → Bergamasco, Cirneco dell'Etna, Volpino Italiano, Bracco Italiano
- Experienced handler → Cane Corso, Neapolitan Mastiff, Maremma Sheepdog, Segugio Italiano
- Do you have children under 8?
- Yes → Spinone Italiano, Maremma Sheepdog, Lagotto Romagnolo, Bergamasco (avoid Italian Greyhound — fragile bones; avoid Neapolitan Mastiff — sheer size risk)
- No / older children → All breeds on this list are viable with proper socialization
- Is hypoallergenic coat a priority?
- Yes → Lagotto Romagnolo (curly, low-shedding), Bolognese (long coat but low-shedding)
- No → All other breeds; note that the Bergamasco and Spinone shed minimally despite their coat length
The Top 3 Italian Breeds for Most Owners
Based on the framework above, these three breeds cover the widest range of lifestyles:
| Situation | Best Pick | Runner-Up |
|---|---|---|
| Apartment + first-time owner | Lagotto Romagnolo | Italian Greyhound |
| Family with kids + yard | Spinone Italiano | Bergamasco Shepherd |
| Rural property + experienced owner | Cane Corso | Maremma Sheepdog |
| Retiree / low-energy household | Bolognese | Volpino Italiano |
| Hunter / sporting enthusiast | Bracco Italiano | Spinone Italiano |
Honorable Mentions and Breeds to Approach with Caution
Honorable Mentions
These Italian breeds didn't make the primary list due to extreme rarity or very narrow suitability, but they deserve recognition:
- Cane da Pastore della Sila — A Calabrian shepherd dog from the Sila plateau, still used by shepherds but virtually unknown outside Italy. Similar to the Maremma but smaller (44–66 lb / 20–30 kg). If you can locate a breeder, it's a hardy, loyal flock guardian.
- Levriero Sardo (Sardinian Greyhound) — A landrace sighthound from Sardinia, not officially recognized by ENCI or FCI but maintained by local hunters. Extremely rare and not available through formal channels.
- Cane di Oropa — A Piedmontese herding dog with a distinctive merle coat pattern. Provisionally recognized by ENCI. Medium-sized (33–55 lb / 15–25 kg) and highly intelligent, but population numbers are critically low.
Breeds to Approach with Caution
These breeds are legitimate Italian breeds, but they present challenges that make them unsuitable for most owners:
- Neapolitan Mastiff — While included in our list, we must be direct: the 7–9 year lifespan, constant drooling, $200–$400/month in health maintenance costs, and the breed's predisposition to dilated cardiomyopathy mean this breed requires both emotional and financial preparedness that many owners underestimate.
- Cane Corso — The breed's power and protective instinct mean that a poorly trained or under-socialized Corso is a genuine liability risk. Several US jurisdictions have breed-specific legislation that may restrict ownership. Always check your local regulations and homeowner's insurance policy before committing.
Health Screening and Ownership Costs
Italian dog breeds carry specific genetic health risks that responsible breeders screen for. Here's what to expect when evaluating a puppy:
| Breed | Key Health Screens | Screening Cost (Breeder) | Common Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cane Corso | OFA hips, elbows, cardiac; DNA for degenerative myelopathy | $600–$900 | Hip dysplasia, bloat (GDV), eyelid entropion |
| Maremma | OFA hips; cardiac evaluation | $400–$600 | Hip dysplasia, achondroplasia (dwarfism) |
| Neapolitan Mastiff | OFA hips, elbows, cardiac; ophthalmologist exam | $700–$1,100 | Cardiomyopathy, cherry eye, skin fold infections |
| Lagotto Romagnolo | OFA hips; DNA for benign familial juvenile cataracts, LSD (storage disease) | $500–$800 | Hip dysplasia, epilepsy, storage disease |
| Italian Greyhound | OFA patellas; ophthalmologist exam; DNA for PRA | $400–$600 | Leg fractures, dental disease, progressive retinal atrophy |
| Spinone Italiano | OFA hips, elbows, cardiac; DNA for cerebellar ataxia | $500–$800 | Cerebellar ataxia, hip dysplasia, otitis externa |
For any breed you consider, always ask the breeder for OFA or PennHIP certification numbers — not just a verbal assurance that "the parents were tested." You can verify results directly on the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals database.
Frequently Asked Questions About Italian Dog Breeds
What is the best Italian dog breed for first-time owners?
The Lagotto Romagnolo is widely considered the best Italian breed for first-time owners. It's medium-sized, hypoallergenic, highly trainable using positive reinforcement methods, good with children and other pets, and has an exceptionally long lifespan of 15–17 years. The Bolognese is a close second for those preferring a smaller dog with lower exercise needs.
Are Italian dog breeds good with children?
Most Italian breeds are good with children when properly socialized. The Spinone Italiano, Bergamasco Shepherd, Maremma Sheepdog, and Lagotto Romagnolo are particularly known for patience with kids. Breeds that require more caution around young children include the Italian Greyhound (fragile bones risk) and the Neapolitan Mastiff (sheer size creates accidental injury risk). Always supervise interactions between any dog and children under 8.
How much do Italian dog breeds cost?
Puppy prices for Italian breeds in the US range from $1,000 to $5,000 depending on the breed and breeder. The most affordable options are the Italian Greyhound ($1,500–$3,000) and Segugio Italiano ($1,000–$2,000 if available). The most expensive are the Neapolitan Mastiff ($2,500–$5,000) and Lagotto Romagnolo ($2,500–$5,000). Factor in first-year veterinary costs of $1,200–$2,500 for vaccinations, spay/neuter, microchipping, and health screening.
Which Italian breed has the longest lifespan?
The Lagotto Romagnolo leads with a lifespan of 15–17 years, followed by the Volpino Italiano (14–16 years) and Italian Greyhound (14–15 years). The Bergamasco Shepherd is notable for a large breed at 13–15 years. At the other end, the Neapolitan Mastiff has one of the shortest lifespans of any breed at 7–9 years.
Can I adopt an Italian dog breed from a rescue?
Yes, though it requires patience. Cane Corso rescues are the most accessible — organizations like Cane Corso Rescue and various mastiff breed rescues regularly have Corsi available. Italian Greyhound rescues (such as Italian Greyhound Club of America Rescue) are also active. For rarer breeds like the Bracco Italiano or Bergamasco, you may need to contact the AKC breed club's rescue coordinator and be willing to wait 6–12 months or travel for transport.
Do any Italian dog breeds have breed-specific legislation restrictions?
The Cane Corso is the Italian breed most commonly affected by breed-specific legislation (BSL) in the US and internationally. Some municipalities, housing authorities, and insurance companies restrict or ban Cane Corsos. The Neapolitan Mastiff is occasionally included in mastiff-related restrictions. Always verify your local laws, HOA rules, and homeowner's insurance policy before bringing home a breed that may be classified as "restricted."
A note on responsible acquisition: Whether you choose a breeder or rescue, always prioritize health testing, transparency, and a take-back clause. Reputable breeders of Italian dog breeds will provide OFA certificates, a written contract, and a commitment to take the dog back at any point in its life. For more guidance, consult the AVMA's resources on responsible pet ownership.
Beth Carrasco
All our authors care for dogs every day — read more of their work on the authors page.
