Also known as the Italian Pointer their sweet nature makes them a great match for homes with older children who can keep up. Looking for a large sized dog? Its physical appearance is very similar to that of the Pyrenees Mountain dog. To help you find your dream furry friend, we have put a list together with the most popular of the larger dog breeds that are available in Australia. Physical Characteristics: Small, slender, elegant dog; short, smooth coat that comes in gray, black, fawn, chocolate, tan, cream, red, sable, or a combination. Their working versatility, keen sense of smell and drive meant they have since, however, become popular as truffle hunting dogs. Many people prefer bigger dogs as companions and we are lucky that there are many different larger breed types to choose from. This large Italian dog breed also enjoy playing with children; provided they have been adequately trained and socialized. The Cane Corso is a large dog of molossoid type, and is closely related to the Neapolitan Mastiff. These coarse-haired pointing dogs have very ancient origins. They were also worked successfully as truffle detectors. They're very powerful, can be stubborn, and their wrinkled skin needs to be properly cleaned to prevent infections or other problems from developing. Below you will find all the dog breeds that originate from Italy. Despite their size, this breed is full of energy - they're certainly not going to be a lapdog! By using The Spruce Pets, you accept our, The 10 Best Large Dog Breeds for Families. Feel free to study the pictures, traits and history of the dogs of Italy. While they still proved to be very capable guard dogs, their temperaments were gentler and more family-friendly. Cane Corso is a big black Italian dog Breeds who also are working dog breed and them origins from Italy. It is well muscled and less bulky than most other Mastiff breeds. 1. Like with all other companion dog breeds, however, they should be trained and socialized correctly in order to adapt well to the life of its human family. However, they are not as popular in the rest of the world. The large-scale draining of the marshlands they hunted on in the 19th century could have seen the breed become extinct. The Cane Corso is a muscular, large, mastiff-type, from a category often referred to as molossus dogs. Their strong protective instincts mean they're now also used for this purpose in other areas across the globe, particularly Australia and North America. The breed is known for being loyal, calm and courageous. Large Dog Breeds . Bergamasco: Bolognese: Bracco Italiano: Cane Corso: Cirneco dell'Etna: Dogo Sardesco: However, their bodies exhibit well-developed musculature, which allows them to hit great speeds when running. Italy is full of excellent fashion, history and even better food, but did you know it’s also full of amazing dog breeds? According to AKC’s registration statistics, the Cane Corso is the most popular Italian dog breed. At around 100 lbs (50 kilos) and standing up to 29" (75 centimetres) tall, it is bigger, heavier and more powerful than either the Retriever or the Bergamasco dog and in stature most like its cousin the Pyrenean mountain dog. In a fresco painted by Andrea Mantegna in about 1470 in the Camera degli Sposi of the Palazzo Ducale of Mantova, in Lombardy in northern Italy, a dog of this kind is shown lying under the chair of the duke, Ludovico III Gonzaga. This lead to them becoming popular across Europe more widely, especially with royals and nobility. “In its native Italy, Cane Corsos were property watchdogs and hunters of wild boar,” says Peterson. Although it has been officially recognized as an Italian dog breed, the origins of the Maltese are not only associated with Italy. It is a powerful and imposing dog. Filter: Small Medium Large Page 1 of 1. Despite being full of energy when out on walks, they don't have as demanding exercise requirements as some breeds, and they often love nothing more than to curl up for a nap of the sofa. Such effects include: dwarfism, reproductive and fertility problems, genetic malformations, weak immune systems, among others. Intelligent, the Cane Corso is easily trained. They're also known for having a high prey drive and may not suit living alongside small furries. Physical Characteristics: Cane Corsos are large very muscular, square dogs with large heads; coat is short and coarse; colors are black, gray, fawn, and red; brindle is possible in all colors; may have black or gray mask; may have small patches of white, Tatyana Vergel / Moment Open / Getty Images. Iggys (as they're sometimes referred to), like many other breeds, were almost wiped out during the World Wars. Its most striking physical features are the numerous wrinkles and … The Neapolitan dates all the way back to … However, this Italian dog breed tend to be more reserved in the presence of people and animals whom they don’t know. They also reach an average body weight of between 2.5 and 4 kilos. In addition, these dogs really enjoy and require an predominantly outdoor lifestyle. The breed is known as a … This large dog breed can become destructive or stressed if they spend too much time alone. Italian Spinone – Out of our list of large dog breeds the Italian Spinone (and Saluki) is the most graceful breed. This selective breeding was carried out with the sole purpose of obtaining smaller whippets, with an aim of differentiating them from other similar sighthound breeds. If you want a dog to train in nose work, field trials or tracking, the Bracco could be your perfect match. Naepolitan mastiffs are known for having an incredibly loyal, but at the same time, determined and independent character. Thought to be one of the oldest water dogs, the Lagotto Romagnolo was developed in the Romagna region of North-East Italy. The Maremma sheepdog, also known as Maremmano-Abrucense, is an ancient Italian dog breed that originated in the central region of Italy. Airedale Terrier. While they're known for being incredibly loyal, laid back and gentle with their families, these big dogs aren't for the faint-hearted. Bracco's nearly became extinct in the 18th century, but a group of conscientious breed enthusiasts help to grow their numbers again. In Italy today, they're widely regarded as a national treasure and much beloved. As we mentioned in the introduction, the ENCI currently recognizes 16 Italian dog breeds, among which we have selected the 10 most popular dogs to discuss in this article. This interaction is incredibly important for their physical, cognitive, emotional and social skills. Cane Corsos are very athletic and energetic dogs, therefore, they adapt better to a life with active owners and people who enjoy the outdoors. Many large dogs are more than happy to sleep all day as long as you give them daily exercise to work off their energy. The Cane Corso also known as the Italian Mastiff, is a large Italian breed of dog, for years valued highly in Italy as a companion, Guard dog and hunter. Originally developed for their guarding capabilities, they were also used for hunting big game and herding. Many larger dogs are prone to joint issues. The Lagotto Romagnolo is a medium-sized Italian water dog, whose origins and name date back to the region of Romagna, Italy. This small Italian dog breed requires regular brushing in order to prevent the formation of knots and tangles. As a large and athletic breed, they need a lot of exercise. Click to attach a photo related to your comment. The sheepdog "to alarm" is typical of Italian sheep-rearing: although it does not represent a homogeneous breed, it holds, as we'll see, a considerable importance to the formation of the Italian Paratore Dog. Lagotto, in the local dialect, translates as 'Duck Dog'. The Maltese bichon is a toy-sized dog that is characterized by its long and white silky mantle. They were also ferocious guardians. Enthusiastic breeders in North America were largely responsible for reviving their numbers. This wrinkly, drooly dog is actually a gentle giant as well as being incredibly loyal. Bolognese, an Ancient Italian Dog Breed Small, compact dog of the Bichon family characterized by a … These dog breeds range from small Malteses to giant Neapolitan mastiffs. If they get enough exercise and stimulation, however, they're usually calm, loving and loyal in the home. With our list of large dog breeds, you will see there is a wide range of temperaments among them. In fact, there are sixteen Italian dog breeds. The Neapolitan mastiff (Napoletano mastino) is a large Italian dog breed. In their family nucleus, Italian bolognese dogs are very affectionate and protective over their loved ones. Large dog breeds might seem overpowering and intimidating, but some of them are incredibly sweet! This dog breed is a Italian breed of mastiff. In addition, these large Italian dogs need a lot of love and attention from their family nucleus. Italian shepherd dog breed: Bergamasco Pastor, 10 English Dog Breeds List - With Pictures, Types of German Shepherd - All Breed Variations, Labrador Companion Dog Breeds for Best Compatibility, Brachycephalic Dog Breeds List - Characteristics and Care. Their history is thought to go as far back as the 15th century when they were developed as companions for ladies of the court and also by the working class as first-rate watchdogs and vermin catchers. Although dogs resembling the modern-day Italian Greyhound were thought to have originated from the Mediterranean, around Greece and Turkey, they came to prominence in Renaissance Italy. For this reason, they are easy to train. Their long coat does, however, need significant attention in the grooming department. A descendent of Roman war dogs, the Cane Corso is more recently used as a guard dog. The Lagotto Romagnolo’s most characteristic physical feature is its traditional dense, woolly and curly coat; common of water dogs. Cane Corso is bred for hunting, protecting, and to guard properties. Italian dogs that are also recognized by the National Italian Cinofilia Entity include: If you want to read similar articles to Italian Dog Breeds- TOP 10!, we recommend you visit our What you need to know category. Italy is, without a doubt, a mandatory destination for those who are interested in the history of our civilization, art, contemporary culture and delicious cuisine! Italian Dogs - Dog Breeds. Their size and strength, however, do mean they need a home where they'll have enough space and get the right type of exercise and training. If you want to find out more about the most popular Italian dog breeds, you’ve come to the right place! Currently, many professional breeders have dedicated their time and work to reversing these negative consequences, trying to restore this Italian dog breed back to optimal health. Gemma is a Freelance Writer and Animal Welfare Advocate. Physical Characteristics: Neapolitan mastiffs are large, powerful, muscular dogs; they have lots of wrinkles, especially around the face; short, dense coat can appear black, blue, mahogany, and tawny in color. There's a lot you need to know to make things go smoothly with your new friend. The Pyrenean : a similar mountain sheep dog. Probably one of the most famous Italian dog breeds is the Neapolitan mastiff (like Hagred’s dog Fang, made famous in the Harry Potter films). The Bracco Italiano is thought to be one of the oldest pointing breeds in Europe, with their roots going as far back as the 4th or 5th century BC in Northern Italy. Some of the dogs of this breed can cross even 200 pounds. These dogs are large, athletic, intelligent and driven. Large Dog Breeds. Therefore, if you are looking for a more independent dog breed, we suggest adopting a different breed or a mixed dog breed. You'll need to be prepared to put in the work with their curly coat which is prone to matting, and Lagottos can be rather vocal and often enjoy digging. The Italian Spinone grows to a height of 61-66 cm or (24-26 inches) and capable of growing to a weight of 27-32 kg or (71-82 pounds). It's believed that the painter Michelangelo owned a Volpino. This section is about Italian breeds of dogs, to which Federico Vinattieri, an expert breeder of Neapolitan Mastiff and a student at Pisa University for Veterinary Science, has collaborated. They're incredibly loyal and known for being very affectionate and gentle with family children. The Ente Nazionale della Cinofilia Italiana (National Entity of Italian Cinofilia - ENCI) currently recognizes 16 different breeds of Italian dogs. Cane Corso 5. This origin is also linked to the island of Malta and Mljet, in Croatia. The Maremma Sheepdog was, and still is, used to guard sheep against wolves in the Abruzzo region and, as the name suggests, the Maremma area of Tuscany and Lazio. The Spinone Italiano's name is thought to have derived from the thorny 'Spino' undergrowth they have to negotiate when hunting in their home region of Piedmont. Of all the dogs on this list, the small, spitz-like Volpino is probably the rarest. Physical Characteristics: This large, solid and muscular dog has a long, thick, rough coat, with a mane around the neck; solid white in color. The table below lists the all the large dog breeds. They aren't necessarily a good choice for novice dog owners. In name and form the Cane Corso predates its cousin the Neapolitan Mastiff. The bolognese dog or Bolognese bichon, is an Italian dog breed from the bichon family. Visit this site dedicated to Dogs and Puppies which lists all the large and giant sized dogs. The Cane Corso was popular amongst Italies farming community for being dedicated protectors of livestock and farm properties. The bermagamasco originated in the Alpine region of Italy. Physical Characteristics: Heavy boned, muscular breed; three unique coat textures that form loose mats, or “flocks” and they come in shades of gray to black. They are great water rescue dogs and normally named as ‘Gentle Giants’.Height of Newfoundland dog Male is 69–74 cm and Female is 63–69 cm. These Italian dogs are strong, robust and resistant. THE 10 ITALIAN DOG BREEDSItaly is without a doubt a mandatorydestination for those who are interestedin the history of our The Italian Volpino is a small-sized spitz dog, with a compact body and well-developed muscles. Historically, these dogs were used for hunting birds, first with nets and, later, with firearms. When training a Cane Corso, one needs to be incredibly patient and preferably have prior dog training experience. They are large breeds, strong, courageous, watchful and loyal. The breeds numbers severely declined during the World Wars, but, since the 1970s their numbers have steadily grown, and they're now the most popular Italian breed in the United States. Really Enjoyed going through the article, Very well laid out and very informative. If these dogs are left alone for too long they become prone to separation anxiety and behavioral problems. The Neapolitan Mastiff's origins go all the way back to the Roman Empire when big molossus dogs like them were used to fight as gladiators and in battle. These imposing dogs reveal a well-defined and independent personality, and are very when it comes to protective their territory and family. Their big eyes and sweet, kind facial expressions also explain why this dog breed garners such attention. The modern-day variety became popular as a result of their versatility and ability to retrieve on land and in water. Rough-haired dogs of pointer type have been present in the Italian peninsula at least since the Renaissance. Many people prefer bigger dogs as companions and we are lucky that there are many different larger breed types to choose from. All dog breeds from Italy. They're known for being affectionate, easy-going and playful. These furry little dogs require constant attention from their tutors, including walks, affection and playing with dog toys. There are a great assortment of breeds that have their origins in Italy. The Neapolitan mastiff ( Napoletano mastino) is a large Italian dog breed. Being a country that has witnessed the apogee and defeat of the Roman Empire, Italy is also known for the number of dog breeds which have originated on its soil. The translations have been supervised by Franca Gordiano. The list is a diverse one, with dogs that come in a wide range of sizes, varying temperaments and different drives. 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