The Cane Corso, a majestic and powerful Italian Mastiff, has long been admired for its intelligence, loyalty, and protective instincts. Known for its muscular build and commanding presence, the Cane Corso can be both a loving family pet and a vigilant guardian. However, its intimidating appearance and history as a guard dog have led to breed-specific legislation (BSL) in various parts of the world. These laws restrict or outright ban ownership of Cane Corsos due to safety concerns and misconceptions about their temperament.
This article explores the banned
locations for Cane Corsos,
the reasons behind these restrictions, and what prospective owners need to know
to ensure they comply with local laws while advocating for responsible
ownership.
Why
Are Cane Corsos Banned or Restricted?
Breed-specific legislation aims to
reduce dog attacks by banning or regulating breeds deemed dangerous.
Unfortunately, this approach often targets breeds based on reputation rather
than individual behavior or training. The Cane Corso, though intelligent and
trainable, is sometimes viewed as a “dangerous breed” due to its size,
strength, and guarding instincts.
In some areas, even well-behaved
Cane Corsos face restrictions simply because of their classification.
Authorities often include them in lists alongside Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, and
other large breeds perceived as aggressive. These laws typically arise from
isolated incidents or fear-driven policies rather than comprehensive studies of
breed behavior.
Countries
That Have Banned or Restricted Cane Corsos
Breed bans vary significantly across
countries, states, and even cities. Below is a detailed look at regions where
Cane Corsos are banned or restricted.
1.
United Kingdom
In the United Kingdom, the
Cane Corso is not outright banned nationwide, but ownership can be complicated.
The Dangerous Dogs Act of 1991 prohibits four breeds: the Pit Bull
Terrier, Japanese Tosa, Dogo Argentino, and Fila Brasileiro. While the Cane
Corso is not on this list, local councils or housing authorities may have
policies restricting ownership of “dangerous-looking” breeds, including Cane
Corsos.
Many landlords and insurance
providers in the UK also classify Cane Corsos as “high-risk,” making it
challenging for owners to rent homes or obtain liability coverage.
2.
Australia
Australia enforces some of the
strictest dog breed regulations in the world. The Cane Corso is banned in
several Australian states and territories, including:
- Queensland
- New South Wales
- Victoria
Under the Customs (Prohibited
Imports) Regulations 1956, the importation of Cane Corsos into Australia is
illegal. This means that even if you already own a Cane Corso abroad, you
cannot legally bring it into the country. The ban stems from concerns about
aggression and public safety, though critics argue that these fears are largely
unfounded when dogs are properly trained and socialized.
3.
New Zealand
New Zealand also has a ban on
importing certain dog breeds considered dangerous, including the Cane Corso.
The Dog Control Act 1996 lists the Cane Corso among prohibited breeds,
meaning they cannot be imported, bred, or sold in the country. Owners who
already possess one may face strict containment and registration requirements.
4.
Canada
In Canada, dog laws vary by
province and municipality. While Cane Corsos are not banned nationally, several
cities and regions have restrictions:
- Winnipeg, Manitoba
– The Cane Corso is classified as a prohibited breed under local animal
control bylaws.
- Brandon, Manitoba
– Similar restrictions apply, with bans on ownership and breeding.
Other provinces may have “dangerous
dog” designations that can include Cane Corsos depending on local regulations.
5.
United States
In the United States,
breed-specific legislation is determined at the city or county level rather
than federally. Several municipalities have restrictions or bans on Cane
Corsos, including:
- Miami-Dade County, Florida – While Pit Bulls are specifically banned, some
housing authorities also restrict Cane Corsos due to their similarity.
- Ardmore, Oklahoma
– Cane Corsos are classified as “vicious dogs,” requiring owners to meet
strict containment and insurance requirements.
- Norwood, Massachusetts – Local ordinances restrict ownership of Cane Corsos
without special permits.
Across the U.S., homeowners’
associations, insurance providers, and rental agencies frequently list Cane
Corsos among restricted breeds, even in areas without official bans.
6.
European Countries
In Europe, restrictions vary
widely:
- Germany
– Some German states, such as Bavaria and Hesse, classify Cane Corsos as
dangerous breeds. Owners must pass temperament tests, obtain special
licenses, and ensure secure containment.
- Switzerland
– Certain cantons, including Geneva and Zurich, have restrictions or bans
on Cane Corsos. Importation and breeding are regulated under public safety
laws.
- France
– The Cane Corso falls into the “Category 2” classification, meaning
ownership is legal but highly regulated. Owners must register their dogs,
obtain liability insurance, and ensure they are sterilized.
Penalties
for Violating Breed Bans
Penalties for owning a banned Cane
Corso vary depending on location but can include:
- Fines
ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars.
- Confiscation
of the dog by animal control authorities.
- Mandatory euthanasia
in severe or repeated violations (in some regions).
- Legal liability
in the event of an attack or public complaint.
Because these penalties can be
severe, it’s essential for owners or potential adopters to verify local
regulations before bringing home a Cane Corso.
Alternatives
and Advocacy
While breed bans may appear to
promote safety, numerous studies and animal welfare organizations — including the
American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and the Humane Society
— oppose breed-specific legislation. They advocate for behavior-based laws
that hold individual owners accountable instead of targeting entire breeds.
If you live in a region where Cane
Corsos are banned or restricted, consider:
- Advocating for breed-neutral laws through petitions and education campaigns.
- Participating in obedience training to demonstrate your dog’s good behavior.
- Obtaining special permits or certifications (where possible) to legally own your dog.
Responsible ownership — including
proper training, socialization, and secure handling — plays a far greater role
in preventing dog-related incidents than breed alone.
Conclusion
The Cane Corso is a magnificent
breed that, in the right hands, makes a devoted and intelligent companion.
Unfortunately, its powerful physique and guardian instincts have led to
widespread misunderstanding and restrictive laws in many parts of the world.
From Australia and New Zealand
to parts of Canada, the United States, and Europe, Cane Corsos face
various levels of regulation or prohibition. Understanding these laws is
essential for prospective owners to avoid legal issues and protect their
beloved pets.
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