The Top 10 Italian Dog Breeds for Your Home - Best Pets and Guards
1. Bergamasco Sheepdog
The Bergamasco sheepdog's coat, which was originally used for herding and defending livestock in the mountainous alpine region near Bergamo in Northern Italy, kept it warm in winter. The dog's massive eyelashes kept the snow out of its eyes as well.
2. Bolognese
The modern-day Bolognese can be traced back to the 11th century in Italy, where the aristocracy adored these dogs. Throughout history, the breed was on the verge of extinction, but an Italian breeder in the 1980s helped to restore their popularity.
These adorable little dogs are well-known for being calm, loving, and sociable, as well as being low shedders. Bolos have strong attachments to their families and prefer to have people around them for the majority of the day to avoid separation anxiety.
3. Bracco Italiano
The Bracco Italiano, one of Europe's oldest pointing breeds, is thought to have existed in Northern Italy since the 4th or 5th century BCE. These dogs were almost extinct in the 18th century, but a group of breeders helped to bring them back.
These are big, athletic dogs who are smart and motivated. They are usually quiet, loving, and loyal guardians at home if they get enough exercise and mental stimulation.
4. Cane Corso
The Cane Corso is a large, muscular mastiff-like breed that has been around for hundreds of years in Italy. These dogs were created to protect property and hunt large animals, but they have also been used for herding and hunting large game.
They are devoted to their families and are known for being gentle and loving with them. In order to thrive, their size and power necessitate adequate space as well as proper exercise and training.
5. Italian Greyhound
The ancient Italian greyhound was thought to have originated in the Mediterranean, with origins in Greece and Turkey, but it gained popularity during the Renaissance period. They're known for their friendliness, laid-back personality, and sense of humour.
They are energetic on walks, but they do not require as much exercise as some breeds. They usually enjoy nothing more than curling up on the sofa for a quick nap after a long walk. They can be quite stubborn when it comes to obedience training, so constant praise is required.
6. Lagotto Romagnolo
The Romagnolo Lagotto is a water dog that was developed in the Romagna region of northeast Italy. Lagotto means "duck dog" in its native dialect. Lagottos are well-known for their affection, eagerness to learn, and trainability.
They're not as intense as some working dogs, but they may still require some effort from you. Their curly coat, on the other hand, can easily become matted, so be prepared to put in the effort if you want it to look good. Lgottos also have a loud bark that they frequently use for digging.
7. Maremma Sheepdog
The Abruzzo region of Southern Italy, where the Maremma sheepdog was used to protect sheep from wolves, is known as the "land of lambs" because of its abundance of dairy farms. The breed is known for its devotion, poise, and bravery.
These large dogs are also intelligent, self-sufficient thinkers who may become overly protective of their human and territory. As a result, they aren't always the best choice for first-time dog owners.
8. Neapolitan Mastiff
The history of the Neapolitan mastiff is long and illustrious. In Ancient Rome, they were both powerful defenders and fierce gladiators. These mastiffs were bred in Southern Italy to look more like the massive, loose-skinned, wrinkled dogs that we know today.
While they are still excellent guard dogs, their personalities have softened and become more family-friendly. Make sure to clean their wrinkled skin properly to avoid infections and other problems. Expect plenty of drool as well.
9. Spinone Italiano
The Spinone Italiano is thought to have been named after the spiny undergrowth they must pass through while hunting in their native Piedmont. These coarse-haired pointing dogs have a long history. The modern form gained popularity due to its adaptability and ability to retrieve on land and in water.
These dogs are very elegant, and they have mild and gentle personalities. They can, however, be stubborn, and because they have a strong attachment to their people, they can suffer from separation anxiety.
10. Volpino Italiano
The Volpino, a tiny, spitz-like dog, is the most rare of all the dogs on this list. These canines were developed as companions for court ladies and by the working class as first-rate watchdogs and vermin catchers in the 1500s.
It has been claimed that Michelangelo owned a Volpino. Despite their small size, they were ideal working-class dogs, as well as the first choice of the ladies of the court.
Which of these dogs makes your heart sing with love? Tell us in the comments, and please share this blog with your friends.
