Yes, the Cane Corso is legal in the UK. Unlike certain dog breeds that are prohibited under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991, such as the Pit Bull Terrier, Japanese Tosa, Dogo Argentino, and Fila Brasileiro, the Cane Corso is not banned.
However, owning a Cane Corso comes with legal responsibilities. Owners must ensure that their dog is properly trained, controlled in public spaces, and not deemed dangerous. While the breed itself is not restricted, failure to manage a Cane Corso responsibly can lead to penalties, including fines or legal orders under the Dangerous Dogs Act.
Therefore, while it is legal to own a Cane Corso, responsible ownership is crucial to avoid legal issues.
What is a Cane Corso?
The Cane Corso is a large and powerful dog breed, originally from Italy. Historically, it was bred for protection and as a working dog, often used for guarding property and livestock. With a muscular build, broad chest, and imposing presence, the Cane Corso is known for its strength, agility, and intelligence.
Despite its formidable appearance, the Cane Corso is highly loyal and affectionate towards its family. Properly trained and socialised, these dogs can be excellent companions and are valued for their protective instincts. They are calm and even-tempered, making them suitable for families with the right guidance. However, due to their size and strength, they require experienced handling to ensure they remain well-behaved in various situations.
There are misconceptions surrounding the breed, particularly regarding its potential for aggression. While the Cane Corso has strong protective instincts, its temperament largely depends on how it is raised and trained. A well-trained Cane Corso is typically calm, confident, and not unnecessarily aggressive. It is important to understand that responsible ownership and training play a crucial role in shaping the dog’s behaviour.
Legal Framework in the UK
The UK regulates dog breeds through the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991, which was introduced to reduce the risk of dangerous dogs harming the public. Under this law, certain dog breeds are banned due to concerns about their aggressive nature. The Cane Corso is not one of the four breeds specifically banned by this Act. The banned breeds in the UK include the Pit Bull Terrier, Japanese Tosa, Dogo Argentino, and Fila Brasileiro.
While the Cane Corso is not a prohibited breed, this does not mean there are no legal considerations for owning one. All dog owners, regardless of the breed, have a duty to ensure their dog does not pose a risk to the public. The Dangerous Dogs Act also applies to any dog that is considered dangerously out of control in a public place, regardless of its breed.
Cane Corso owners must take care to control their dogs, especially in public areas. Failure to do so can result in legal consequences, such as fines, control orders, or even the dog being destroyed if deemed dangerous. In addition, the Animal Welfare Act 2006 outlines responsibilities for ensuring a dog’s health and welfare, including proper training, socialisation, and care.
Requirements for Cane Corso Ownership
Owning a Cane Corso in the UK comes with certain legal responsibilities. Although the breed is not banned, owners must comply with general regulations regarding dog ownership to ensure public safety. This is particularly important for larger breeds like the Cane Corso, which require proper training, care, and control.
One key requirement for all dog owners in the UK is to have their dog microchipped. Under the Microchipping of Dogs (England) Regulations 2015, it is mandatory for dogs over eight weeks old to be microchipped and for the owner’s details to be kept up to date. Failure to comply with this law could result in a fine.
Additionally, owners must ensure their Cane Corso is well-socialised and properly trained. Given the breed’s size and strength, it is crucial to start training early, focusing on obedience and socialisation with both people and other animals. Poorly trained Cane Corsos can become difficult to control, which could lead to incidents that trigger legal action under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991. Owners may also face a Dog Control Order or a Community Protection Notice if their dog’s behaviour becomes problematic.
When in public, Cane Corsos should be kept on a lead in areas where it is required, and owners should always have full control of their dog. Failing to control a Cane Corso in public could result in penalties, including fines, destruction of the dog, or even imprisonment in extreme cases where serious harm is caused.
Legal Advice for Cane Corso Owners
For those considering owning a Cane Corso in the UK, understanding and complying with the legal requirements is essential. Given the size and strength of the breed, it is crucial to ensure that your Cane Corso is well-trained and socialised to avoid potential legal issues. Even though Cane Corsos are not banned, they must be controlled in public spaces, and owners could face penalties if their dog is deemed dangerous or out of control.
If you are concerned about how the law applies to your Cane Corso or if you’re facing legal issues due to your dog’s behaviour, it’s advisable to seek professional legal advice. Legal experts can provide guidance on how to navigate the regulations surrounding dog ownership in the UK, including advice on complying with the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 and related laws.
It is also wise to ensure you have proper insurance coverage, as this can offer protection in case of accidents or incidents involving your dog. Responsible ownership involves not only training and controlling your dog but also being prepared for potential legal and financial consequences if issues arise
Author – Julie Condliffe
Julie Condliffe is a four-time bestselling author, successful property investor and an award winning solicitor. She is the founding partner of Creative Legals.