Italian dog breeds: overview and characteristics

Italy is famous not only for pizza, ancient cathedrals and the hot temperament of its inhabitants – this country has given the world more than ten breeds of dogs. What Italian breeds still do not lose their popularity?

The Italian Kennel Club has existed for more than a hundred years, and the first breeds were formed back in the days of the Roman Empire. To this day, dogs in Italy are one of the most popular pets. You can find many dog-friendly establishments in the country, for example, Unicredit bank allows its employees in Milan to take their pets with them to work.

Large breeds

Italian hound. Images of representatives of this breed can be found in ancient frescoes and paintings of past centuries, but Italian hounds are still very popular in Italy and beyond. These are graceful short-haired dogs with a stubborn character. They are almost impossible to train, but they get along well with children.

Italian bracc. A breed that was extremely popular among medieval aristocrats. In appearance, the Brakk is similar to the Basset Hound – the same long ears, drooping lips and harsh short hair. Representatives of this breed are energetic and suitable only for those people who are ready to walk with the Bracque at least twice a day.

Italian spinone. This Italian hunting dog got its name in honor of the thorns of the blackthorn (Italian – spine), into which it climbed, following the prey. Spinones love to communicate with people, as well as active games. And, of course, they are excellent hunters.

Cane Corso. Ideal guards and watchmen, Cane Corso have a friendly disposition and a reverent attitude towards children. Dogs of this breed are massive, with well-developed muscles and graceful gait of a leopard. And the shiny short coat only enhances their resemblance to a large wild cat.

Maremmo-Abruzzo Sheepdog. Italian cynologists were unable to determine the exact place of origin of the breed, which is why it received a double name – in honor of the provinces of Maremma and Abruzzo. These are dogs with a thick coat of white color, excellent guards and watchmen, although they were bred for shepherd purposes. The Maremmo-Abruzzo Sheepdog will be faithful to its owner to the end, but the stranger is likely to be bypassed.

Neapolitan Mastiff. Mastino-Neapolitano were known in the days of Ancient Rome and even then served as guards and bodyguards. They are powerful, large dogs with short, soft coats. They are calm, balanced and not prone to frequent barking.

Medium breeds

Bergamskaya Shepherd, or Bergamasco, is one of the oldest shepherd dogs in Europe. The first thing that catches your eye when looking at them is an unusual coat that looks like dreadlocks. These are peaceful and calm dogs that are more suitable for living in a private house than in an apartment.

Volpino Italiano, or Florentine Spitz, – a breed characterized by a luxurious collar on the neck and a fluffy tail. According to the breed standard, these dogs are white or red in color and medium in size. Volpino Italianos are energetic, active and love to be around people.

Lagotto-romagnolo. This breed of dog from Italy is distinguished by a hard, curly coat that does not have a characteristic dog smell and practically does not shed. Lagotto Romagnolos love to be the center of attention and will tail their master. In addition, they lend themselves well to training.

Cirneco dell’Etna. Descendants of hunting dogs from Ancient Egypt, representatives of this breed have an excellent hunting instinct. They are reckless and sociable, and their unusual large ears and silky short hair will not allow you to confuse the Cirneco with any other breed.

miniature breeds

Bolognese or Italian lapdog, is a decorative breed that got its name in honor of the city of Bologna. Bolognese was first mentioned in documents from the 30th century. These affectionate and friendly miniature dogs do not grow above 6 cm, and their weight rarely exceeds 7-XNUMX kg. Thanks to the curly white coat, it seems as if the bolognese has the shape of a ball, but in fact the Italian lapdog has an elegant and graceful body. 

Greyhounds are the tiniest of the officially recognized greyhounds. Miniature Italian dogs are distinguished by very short hair, pointed muzzle and round eyes. Greyhounds are excitable, energetic and get along well with children.

Welcome to Italy, a paradise for dog lovers of all sizes. It remains only to choose a pet to your liking and temperament.

See also:

• The best dog breeds to keep in an apartment
• Hunting dogs: what breeds belong to them and their features
• The best breeds of large dogs