The recent ban on owning XL Bully dogs in the UK without an exemption certificate has created a ripple effect, steering dog enthusiasts toward an alternative breed that experts warn could be even more dangerous: the Cane Corso.
This powerful Italian mastiff, known for its immense strength and protective instincts, is gaining popularity, raising concerns about safety, responsible ownership, and the unintended consequences of breed-specific bans.
The Cane Corso: A Breed Rooted in History and Strength
The Cane Corso, often referred to as the ultimate guard dog, is a descendant of ancient Roman war dogs. This breed embodies power, with some dogs weighing up to 50 kilograms. Traditionally employed as a guard dog, the Cane Corso possesses a natural territorial instinct, making it fiercely protective of its family and home.
Unlike the XL Bully, the Cane Corso is not subject to legal restrictions in the UK. This makes it an attractive choice for those seeking a large, intimidating dog.
However, experts like Rob Alleyne, a canine behaviour specialist, describe the breed as a “killing machine.” Alleyne notes that the breed is becoming increasingly popular in training classes, with some owners drawn to the Cane Corso for its imposing presence.
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The Cane Corso’s popularity surge is not confined to ordinary households. Celebrities such as Love Island’s Jack Fincham and footballer Marcus Rashford have been spotted with the breed, further boosting its appeal.
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Despite its legal status and recognition as a guard dog, concerns about irresponsible ownership and the potential misuse of the breed are growing among canine specialists.
The Unintended Consequences of Breed-Specific Legislation
The ban on XL Bully dogs illustrates the complex challenges of breed-specific legislation (BSL). Historically, banning one breed often leads to the rise of another. Rob Alleyne compares the current situation to the aftermath of the pitbull terrier ban, which gave rise to the XL Bully. Now, the Cane Corso appears to be following a similar trajectory.
Experts warn that banning a specific breed does not address the root causes of dangerous dog behavior, such as poor training, irresponsible ownership, and breeding practices.
Instead, it shifts the problem to other breeds. Alleyne and his colleagues are concerned that the Cane Corso, with its immense strength and potential for aggression if improperly trained, could exacerbate existing safety issues.
Bill Lambert of the Kennel Club emphasizes the importance of understanding a dog’s size, strength, and exercise needs. He points out that many families choose larger breeds without ill intentions but may lack the knowledge or resources to manage them responsibly. This gap in education and awareness can lead to tragic outcomes, regardless of the breed.
Balancing Popularity and Responsibility
While the Cane Corso’s rise in popularity highlights the public’s fascination with large, powerful dogs, it also underscores the need for responsible ownership. Proper training, socialization, and breeding are critical to ensuring that any dog, regardless of its breed, becomes a well-behaved family companion.
Lambert suggests that banning breeds may inadvertently attract individuals seeking to exploit the dogs’ size and strength for illicit purposes. These individuals may also contribute to the development of new breeds outside existing legal frameworks, perpetuating the cycle of danger and regulation.
To break this cycle, experts advocate for focusing on the broader issue of responsible ownership. Public education campaigns, stricter licensing requirements, and support for ethical breeding practices can help mitigate the risks associated with large, powerful breeds like the Cane Corso.
The ban on XL Bully dogs has had unintended consequences, leading to the rise of the Cane Corso as a popular alternative. While the Cane Corso is a legal and recognized breed in the UK, its increasing prominence raises critical questions about safety, responsible ownership, and the effectiveness of breed-specific legislation.
Addressing these challenges requires a shift in focus from banning specific breeds to promoting responsible dog ownership and education. Only through these efforts can the cycle of dangerous dog breeds and regulatory gaps be effectively broken.
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