Are Cane Corsos Legal?

Are Cane Corsos legal? This is a question that has come up increasingly in recent years, as the popularity of this large breed increases. The short answer is yes; Cane Corsos are legal in many countries, including westernised, English speaking countries such as the UK, US and Australia. However, it is important to be aware that there may be certain restrictions or regulations in place, depending on the country or territory within that country with which you reside. 

It’s worth noting that many places have breed specific legislation. This legislation regulates the types of dogs you can have and are applied to breeds that have a history of aggression. An unfortunate symptom of this legislation is that your breed can land on the list, simply because of a resemblance to other banned breeds (e.g. Pitbull or Mastiff). 

These rules vary by country to country, and may result in ownership requirements such as: 

• Ensuring your dog is muzzled 
• Ensuring your dog is neutered or spayed 
• Ensuring your dog is microchipped
• Ensuring your dog is up to date on rabies protection
• Ensuring you have warning signs to warn of your dogs presence on property or vehicle 

A list of dogs that are typically targeted by the BSL are here: 

• American Staffordshire Terrier
• American Bulldog
• Bullmastiff
• Cane Corso
• Chow Chow
• Doberman Pinscher
• German Shepherd
• Rottweiler
• Staffordshire Bull Terrier
• Wold Hybrids

Although the Cane Corso is legal across the globe, speculation about the legality of owning this breed arises due to reports of attacks or aggression towards humans and other animals (they do have a high prey drive). It’s important to note that although the Cane Corso does have a reputation for being a guardian, they are simply trying to protect their family from harm. That said, with high level training and socialisation, the breed can control its instincts and become a great dog. 

Outside of this, the fierce look and intimidating aura of the breed can also fuel speculation. Many people perceive the Cane Corso to be more dangerous than warranted, which leads to an unfair reputation. This is especially the case in the USA, where many still adopt aggressive ear cropping styles, a practice which is now illegal in the UK. 

Beyond regional legalities, it’s also important to bear in mind the responsibilities that come with owning a Cane Corso. As they are an active breed, they require regular exercise and mental stimulation; if not given enough of these things, they can become bored, restless and potentially even aggressive.

To help ensure the safety of owners and other people, you should attend puppy training classes, taking them for regular walks, and introducing them to as many people and animals as possible in a controlled environment.

Are Cane Corsos Legal in the UK?

Cane Corsos are legal to own in the UK. According to the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 which names only four breeds that are specifically banned under the legislation. They are: Pit Bull Terrier, Dogo Argentino, Japanese Tosa and the Fila Brasileiro. Otherwise, the act makes clear that any dog that appears to be a cross of any of the four breeds listed is also banned.

This means that police will look at a dog’s physical appearance to determine whether the owner should be prosecuted. It’s also worth noting that the law covers whether a dog ‘looks’ dangerous – its DNA, behaviour or breeding are not considered. This means they have to be measured for their ‘looks’. If a court decides they are not a danger to the public, they will be placed on the ‘Index of Exempted Dogs’ but must comply with conditions including being muzzled and kept on a lead in a public place. You will also need third-party insurance.

Naturally, the risk of bites is the key reason for any dog to be considered dangerous, and our Dog Bite Statistics guide provides a detailed overview of the risks of dog bites.

Does anyone want them to be banned in the UK?

Some people have advocated for the banning of Cane Corsos in the UK, citing their size and strength as factors that could lead to them becoming a danger to people and other animals. Despite this, there has been no successful attempt to have the breed banned.

It is important to note that the law is constantly changing and evolving – so it is possible that future legislation or restrictions for Cane Corsos could be put in place.

As an owner, you will need to stay up to date with changes in the law, to ensure that they are complying with all requirements and regulations around owning a Cane Corso. 

Ultimately, it’s important to be responsible and committed when it comes to owning any breed of dog, and this applies particularly for those who own powerful breeds like the Cane Corso.

Are Cane Corsos legal in Australia?

Like the UK, some breeds of dog are banned in Australia. In addition to the four breeds listed above, Australia also bans the Perro de Presa Canarios (or Presa Canario) breed.However, while Cane Corsos are not illegal in Australia the importation of the breed is banned.

Having said that, the ownership of Cane Corsos is restricted in some states due to their size and strength. In New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory, Cane Corsos are classified as a ‘Dangerous Dog’ under legislation – meaning that there are specific rules and restrictions around their ownership. These include sterilisation, microchipping and muzzling when in public.

In Victoria, Cane Corsos are classified as a ‘Restricted Breed’ – meaning they also have additional requirements for ownership, such as obtaining a permit to keep the dog and registering it with the local council.

The rules can be confusing but the Tasmanian government offers more detail about the breed, and the City of Sydney council offers good advice – and what happens if a ranger or council employee decides your dog is dangerous.

Ultimately, the legal restrictions around owning a Cane Corso in Australia vary from state to state, so potential owners will need to be aware of the regulations in their area and whether they need a permit before bringing one home.

Does anyone want them to be banned in Australia?

As in the UK, there are some in Australia who are also calling for Cane Corsos to be banned because of their size and strength. However, no successful attempts have been made to have them banned in any Australian state or territory. As it stands, there are only around 20 registered Cane Corsos in the country which indicates that breed is still relatively new to the continent. 

Owners should stay up to date with law changes in their states of residence as legislation can change fairly quickly.

Are Cane Corsos legal in the US?

In the US, Cane Corsos ownership is somewhat tricky. Some states have specific restrictions in place for this breed. In most places, owners will need to meet certain requirements, such as obtaining a licence and registering the dog with their local municipality.

Potential owners need to be aware that some county and city authorities have begun introducing ‘Breed Specific Legislation’ (BSL). This has led to a list of dangerous dogs being placed on the list – and this might include the Cane Corso.

This means that where a state or authority has banned the Cane Corso, a regulating organisation can confiscate and destroy your dog – whether it has shown aggressive behaviour or not.

The breed is banned in:

• Arkansas
• Kansas
• Iowa
• Nebraska
• New Mexico
• Louisiana
• Missouri 
• Montana
• Idaho
• Wyoming
• North Dakota
• Oregon
• Washington
• Kentucky
• Ohio
• Tennessee
• West Virginia
• Wisconsin
• Michigan
• Indiana
• Georgia
• Mississippi
• South Carolina
• North Carolina
• Alabama
• Maryland
• Vermont 
• Delaware

California, Florida, Illinois and Colorado have state laws prohibiting breed-specific legislation. The rules which determine how banned breeds are handled do vary by location, such as: 

• Put a muzzle on your pet in public.
• Sterilise them.
• Keep your pet in a specific type of kennel.
• Keep your pet leashed. 
• Hold liability insurance.
• Display vicious dog signs at your residence.
• Tag your dog with a vicious warning sign.

Perhaps the easiest way to understand if there is a law in your state or city that bans Cane Corsos is to apply for dog liability insurance – if your address is covered by a law that bans the breed as a pet, you will not get insurance cover.

Does anyone want them to be banned in the US?

Like other countries, some people in the US have wanted to ban Cane Corsos. However, no attempts have been entirely successful, and they remain somewhat legal.

Is owning a Cane Corso legal in Canada?

It’s important to note that BSL plays a large role in legislating which dogs are allowed to be owned in Canada. There are some groups who are fighting this, calling it discrimination. The Toronto Humane Society states that there is zero evidence of more dog attacks in areas that practise BSL vs those that don’t. In fact, breed discrimination can lead to many euthanised pets and unfairly tarnishes experienced and ethical owners. 

That said, the area of Calgary in Alberta does not use BSL to ban dogs based on breeds. The Cane Corso is welcome in this area. The city has strong licensing agreements to ensure that inexperienced owners don’t end up with dogs that they can’t control. They also offer fantastic initiatives such as public dog safety education to educate owners on public safety and general dog care. 

Where are Cane Corsos illegal?

In India some types of large and dangerous breeds, including Cane Corsos, are banned. It is therefore important to check the legal requirements of any country you plan on travelling to with your pet.

Overall, it is safe to say that Cane Corsos are legal in many parts of the world – but you should always do your research before becoming an owner. It is also important to remember that just because a breed is allowed, it doesn’t mean they will be suitable or safe for all households.

Responsibility of owning a large breed like a Cane Corso

Owning any type of pet comes with a certain degree of responsibility, but this is particularly true when it comes to owning large breeds. Cane Corsos are known for their strength and size, and owners must be aware of the potential risks associated with them.

The most important thing is to ensure that the dog has been trained to know basic commands and be socialised with other animals and people. This will help prevent any unwanted situations that might occur due to the dog’s size and strength.

Essentially, owning a Cane Corso requires a great deal of responsibility and commitment.

Ensuring the safety of both your pet and those around you is essential, as well as providing them with the best possible care.