Italian dog breeds
Italian dog breeds are known for their versatility, loyalty and strong bond with their owners. Whether hunting dogs, guard dogs or companions - they were bred for specific tasks. Many are intelligent, persistent and need a lot of exercise. Anyone interested in one of these breeds should know exactly what their needs are.
Italian dog breeds - elegance, strength and tradition
Italy has produced a variety of unique dog breeds that are known for their versatility, loyalty and often their impressive appearance. From powerful guard dogs to elegant hunting dogs and charming companion dogs, Italian breeds are as diverse as the country itself.
History and origins
Many Italian dog breeds have a long tradition and have been bred over centuries to fulfill specific tasks. Whether as shepherd dogs, guard dogs or hunting companions, they have been perfectly adapted to the Italian climate and its requirements.
Character and areas of use
Italian dogs are often particularly intelligent, persistent and develop a strong bond with their owners. Many breeds require consistent training, plenty of exercise and are best suited to experienced owners.
Which breed suits me?
If you are interested in an Italian dog breed, you should familiarize yourself with the needs and character of the breed in question. This is the only way to find the perfect four-legged companion that suits both your own lifestyle and the requirements of the breed.
Mastino Napoletano
The Mastino Napoletano is an impressive, powerful dog breed from Italy that was bred as a guard and protection dog. It is known for its loyalty, strong protective instinct and distinctive skin folds. Its short coat is easy to care for, but its size requires a lot of space. The Mastino needs consistent training and a responsible attitude.
Cane Corso
The Cane Corso is a powerful, intelligent dog breed from Italy that was bred as a guard and protection dog. It is characterized by its loyalty, its pronounced protective instinct and its willingness to work. Its short coat is easy to care for. The Cane Corso requires consistent training, plenty of exercise and a responsible attitude.
Bergamasco Shepherd Dog
The Bergamasco Shepherd Dog is a robust, intelligent dog breed from Italy that was traditionally used as a herding dog. Its distinctive, shaggy coat protects it from the elements. It is loyal, eager to learn and shows a strong bond with its family. The Bergamasco requires plenty of exercise, consistent training and regular grooming.
Spinone Italiano
The Spinone Italiano is a friendly, persistent dog breed from Italy that was originally bred as a hunting dog. It is known for its patience, its eagerness to learn and its close bond with people. Its dense, rough coat protects it in all weathers. The Spinone needs plenty of exercise, consistent training and loves joint activities.
Lagotto Romagnolo
The Lagotto Romagnolo is an intelligent, water-loving dog breed from Italy that was originally bred as a water dog and later as a truffle hunting dog. Its dense, curly coat is hypoallergenic and requires regular grooming. The Lagotto is eager to learn, loyal and develops a strong bond with its family. It needs plenty of mental and physical exercise.
Bolognese
The Bolognese is a small, charming dog breed from Italy that is known for its soft, white coat and friendly nature. It is a loyal companion that forms a close bond with its family. Its coat requires regular grooming. The Bolognese is intelligent, playful and makes an excellent family dog.
Volpino Italiano
The Volpino Italiano is a small, lively dog breed from Italy that is known for its fluffy coat and spirited nature. It is intelligent, alert and shows a strong bond with its family. Its dense coat requires regular grooming. The Volpino is a playful companion who loves lots of attention and activity.
Cirneco dell' Etna
The Cirneco dell'Etna is an elegant, enduring dog breed from Italy that was originally bred for hunting rabbits. It is athletic, intelligent and very adaptable. Its short, easy-care coat can have different colors, often in warm tones. The Cirneco is a loyal companion that needs plenty of exercise and mental challenge.
Italian wind chimes
The Italian Greyhound (pictured is a mixed breed) is an elegant, graceful dog breed known for its speed and friendly nature. Originally bred as a companion dog for the nobility, it shows a close bond with its human. Its short, fine coat is easy to care for. The Windspiel needs a lot of exercise, but is also a cuddly family dog.
Maremma Abruzzo Sheepdog
The Maremma Abruzzo Sheepdog is a large, robust dog breed from Italy that is traditionally used as a guard dog. It is loyal, independent and has a strong protective instinct. Its dense, weatherproof coat requires regular grooming. This intelligent guard dog needs consistent training, plenty of space and a responsible attitude.
Short-haired Italian hound
The Italian Shorthaired Hound is an enduring, passionate hunting dog breed from Italy. It is characterized by its sniffer nose, its speed and its willingness to work. Its short, easy-care coat protects it during the hunt. The hound is intelligent, eager to learn and needs plenty of exercise as well as consistent training for optimal leadership.
