12 Elegant Italian Dog Breeds That Make Exceptional Pets

In praise of Italian dog breeds

Italy is celebrated for its art, historic monuments, and culinary delights. Equally, the country is the birthplace of several remarkable dog breeds that remain cherished by locals and travelers alike.

From herding dogs that guard flocks of sheep to elegant companions that lounge on the divano (Italian for "couch"), Italian breeds span a wide spectrum of sizes and temperaments. They are intelligent, affectionate, and—true to Italy’s flair—dignified and striking. Buongiorno to these exemplary canines!

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Italian Greyhound

Known in Italian as piccolo levriero Italiano, the Italian Greyhound is a svelte, short‑haired companion that blends the elegance of a runway model with the loyalty of a family pet. Though its origins trace back to the Middle East, the breed has been in Italy since at least the medieval era, according to the American Kennel Club. Originally bred for hunting small game, these dogs are now celebrated for their gentle nature and affection toward children. They thrive on companionship, so extended alone time can be stressful. Their strong prey drive means they should never be walked off‑lead in unsecured areas.

Breed Overview

Height: 13 to 15 inches
Weight: 7 to 14 pounds
Life expectancy: 14 to 15 years

Bolognese

The Bolognese, often referred to as a Bichon Bolognese, hails from the northern city of Bologna. Resembling a Bichon Frisé or Havanese, this toy‑size breed is prized for its fluffy white coat that is low‑shedding—ideal for allergy sufferers. Though its history dates back to the 1400s, the Bolognese remains relatively rare. These intelligent, spirited dogs demand daily play and thrive when engaged in mental stimulation. They do not fare well when left alone for long periods.

Breed Overview

Height: 10 to 12 inches
Weight: 5.5 to 5.9 pounds
Life expectancy: 12 to 14 years

Bracco Italiano

The Bracco Italiano, or Italian Pointer, boasts a history that stretches back to the Roman era. These medium‑sized dogs are renowned for their hunting instinct, particularly for wild boar and birds. While they can relax on cool tile floors, they require daily exercise to prevent boredom and excess energy. Regular walks or secure off‑leash runs are ideal. Their long ears and jowls need routine cleaning, but otherwise they are low‑maintenance.

Breed Overview

Height: 21 to 27 inches
Weight: 55 to 90 pounds
Life expectancy: 10 to 14 years

Spinone Italiano

Spinoni were developed for retrieving game in Italy’s dense underbrush, which explains their wiry coats. Today they excel as family companions, offering a gentle disposition and expressive faces. Their coats require occasional hand‑stripping and weekly brushing to prevent matting. Though they shed minimally, their beards benefit from daily cleaning.

Breed Overview

Height: 22 to 27 inches
Weight: 64 to 86 pounds
Life expectancy: 10 to 12 years

Maremma Sheepdog

The Maremma, or pastore Maremmano, remains a vital working dog in Tuscany’s pastoral communities. Renowned for its loyalty and protective instinct, it guards sheep against predators and even the occasional passing car. As a family pet, it demands respect for its protective nature; playful wrestling can trigger defensive behavior. The thick coat requires regular brushing and seasonal shedding management.

Breed Overview

Height: 26 to 27 inches
Weight: 66 to 100 pounds
Life expectancy: 11 to 13 years

Lagotto Romagnolo

Originating from Emilia‑Romagna, the Lagotto Romagnolo is celebrated for its truffle‑hunting prowess. Its highly sensitive nose makes it one of the world’s top truffle hunters. These dogs are eager to please and thrive on consistent mental and physical activity. Even in non‑truffle environments, frequent walks and retrieval games keep them satisfied. Their curly coats shed sparingly, making them suitable for allergy sufferers.

Breed Overview

Height: 16 to 19 inches
Weight: 24 to 35 pounds
Life expectancy: 15 to 17 years

Cane Corso

Developed by ancient Romans for guarding and warfare, the Cane Corso is a powerful, muscular breed that weighs over 100 pounds. Only experienced owners should consider this dog, as it requires firm training and a secure environment to channel its strength. Loyal and protective, it can become overly cautious around strangers. Their short coats shed noticeably, warranting weekly brushing.

Breed Overview

Height: 23.5 to 27.5 inches
Weight: 99 to 110 pounds
Life expectancy: 9 to 12 years

Cirneco dell’Etna

One of Italy’s most distinctive breeds, the Cirneco dell’Etna is noted for its wrinkled brow, oversized ears, and sleek build. Believed to have been introduced by Phoenicians from North Africa, it earned its name from Mount Etna. Originally a small‑game hunter, it retains a strong prey drive, necessitating vigilant supervision and secure containment when off‑lead. It is a low‑shedding breed, ideal for allergy‑prone households.

Breed Overview

Height: 16.5 to 19.5 inches
Weight: 17 to 26 pounds
Life expectancy: 12 to 14 years

Neapolitan Mastiff

The Neapolitan Mastiff, or Mastino Napoletano, was historically a combat and guard dog. Today, it is a devoted family companion—provided its size (up to 150 pounds) and distinct habits (drooling, snorting, and flatulent) are accepted. Ideal for seasoned owners, it is generally non‑aggressive but fiercely protective of its loved ones. Its short coat sheds minimally, yet it requires ample space for exercise.

Breed Overview

Height: 24 to 31 inches
Weight: 110 to 150 pounds
Life expectancy: 7 to 9 years

Volpino Italiano

Named for its fox‑like appearance, the Volpino Italiano is a small, fluffy companion reminiscent of the German Spitz. Energetic and playful, it requires regular exercise and mental engagement to prevent destructive behavior. Its coat sheds twice yearly and needs weekly brushing. The breed is friendly with children and generally gets along with other dogs.

Breed Overview

Height: 10.5 to 12 inches
Weight: 8 to 16 pounds
Life expectancy: 10 to 16 years

Bergamasco Sheepdog

Recognized for its unique dreadlock‑like coat that requires minimal grooming, the Bergamasco is a medium‑large dog originally bred for herding. Friendly with children and adults alike, it is often employed as a therapy dog. Daily exercise and mental stimulation are essential, and owners should keep it cool during hot weather.

Breed Overview

Height: 22 to 23.5 inches
Weight: 57 to 84 pounds
Life expectancy: 13 to 15 years

Segugio Italiano

With a long, arched nose and a history dating back to ancient Rome, the Segugio Italiano is a versatile hunting hound. While it remains a competent tracker, it adapts well to indoor living as a friendly family dog. It thrives with a secure yard and should be leashed in unsecured areas. Its smooth coat sheds moderately; weekly brushing suffices.

Breed Overview

Height: 19 to 23 inches
Weight: 40 to 60 pounds
Life expectancy: 11 to 13 years

Why trust us

At Reader’s Digest, we are committed to delivering accurate, expert‑verified content. This article was crafted by Elizabeth Heath, a seasoned dog behavior and health writer, and rigorously reviewed by Dr. Caroline Coile, Ph.D., an award‑winning journalist specializing in canine breeds, health, and science. We corroborate all facts with credible sources and continually update our content to maintain the highest standards of accuracy and relevance.