Fears a lesser known and “potentially dangerous” dog breed could surge in popularity have emerged weeks after the landmark ban on XL Bullies in the UK. Owners of XL Bullies are being asked to register their dogs for exemption as new laws banning the breed start.
Bullies without an exemption could be destroyed by the end of this month – but it is now against the law to buy, sell or rehome an XL Bully in England and Wales. They must be also be muzzled in public, neutered, chipped and registered.
This comes after hundreds of attacks by the breed – including 14 people killed – with some statistics showing 46 percent of all dog attacks in the UK last year were down to XL Bullies. There are no official figures showing the number of attacks by breed, BirminghamLive says.
UK campaign group, Bully Watch, collects data on dog attacks and fatalities, with a specific focus on American XL Bullies.
In the weeks after the XL Bully ban was introduced, data from puppies.co.uk shows a rise in searches for cane corsos – with 36 per cent more searches. Google search data also reveals a spike in interest for this breed, as well as a similar jump for rottweilers.
Leeds tops a list where nearly 2,175 out of every 100,000 folk are seeking large potentially fierce dogs. Manchester is trailing behind with around 2,048 monthly searches while Cambridge sits third with 1,704 searches per 100,000 people. Walsall (1,568) and Ipswich (1,510) also have significant numbers wanting these sorts of dogs.
But the Cane Corso appears to be an emerging breed in the UK – with fears its dominant temperment may be bred to become more violent – mimicking that of the XL Bully.
The Cane Corso, an Italian breed belonging to the molosser group, is big and robust. Traditionally used as working dogs, they were employed for gatekeeping, hunting and companionship. They exhibit a powerful built, featuring a large head, short hair and a curtailed tail, with their coats appearing in black, grey, light brown or red.
Although usually affectionate pets, Cane Corsos require early and thorough training under a well-informed owner. Given their size, strength and protective instinct, handling them from a young age is critical. The breed thrives on abundant exercise and meaningful engagement for optimum health and good behaviour.
David J Cowhey, an American lawyer specialising in dog bites, observed: “While cane corso dogs account for only a fraction of the overall dog population, their size, strength, and prey drive can lead to more severe injuries when they attack.”
“Due to their size, strength, and strong prey drive, cane corsos can be considered potentially dangerous. While it is important to note that not all cane corsos are aggressive or dangerous, their powerful build and protective nature can lead to severe consequences in the event of an attack. It’s important to remember that the breed does not solely determine the severity of dog attacks but is also influenced by factors such as socialisation, training, and responsible ownership.”
Mr Cowhey added: “Due to their breeding history, cane corsos have developed a strong sense of guarding and protection, making them more prone to aggression in certain situations. Their instinct to protect their family and territory and their imposing physical presence can result in aggressive behaviours toward perceived threats-even more so than with pit bulls. While aggression is not inherent in all cane corso dogs, their breeding purpose has shaped their instincts and responses to specific stimuli.”
