Origins
Where does it come from?
The Cane di mannara, also called Mastino siciliano, is an ancient guard dog from Sicily. Its name comes from the « mànnara », the stone enclosure where shepherds sheltered their flocks at night, which these dogs defended against thieves and predators. Selected for centuries for its usefulness rather than its appearance, it remained confined to the Sicilian countryside for a long time. Enthusiasts undertook its preservation, and the ENCI entered it in its studbook under the name Mastino siciliano. It is not yet definitively recognized by the FCI.
Appearance
What does it look like?
It is a large, powerful but not heavy molossoid, about 58 to 68 cm at the withers, the female being visibly smaller than the male. The head is strong, the muzzle broad, the ears drooping. The coat is medium-long, wavy to curly. The colours range from fawn, mahogany to cream, black, black and tan, grey, liver or brindle, often with more or less extensive white markings.
Temperament
Temperament and personality
Wary of strangers, the Cane di mannara is a determined and self-confident guardian. With its family, it is calm, docile and particularly gentle with children and the elderly. It is peaceful with the animals entrusted to it, faithful to its role as a herd protector.
Living together
Living with children and animals
He needs a large area to watch over and regular walks, but not intense exertion. He lives better in the countryside than in the city and does not tolerate confinement or prolonged isolation well.
Training
Training and socialization
Intelligent and independent, it requires early, firm and caring education. Socialization with a variety of people and dogs is essential to avoid excessive distrust in adulthood.
Budget
Cane di mannara price & budget
The Cane di mannara is mainly bred in Sicily by a few passionate breeders. It remains very rare outside Italy.
View cost breakdownHealth
Health at a glance
Rustic breed selected for work, the Cane di mannara is reputed to be sturdy. Like other large dogs, it may be affected by hip dysplasia and gastric torsion.
Prevention & watch pointsDid you know?
Anecdotes and popularity
Morphological, genealogical and genetic studies conducted in Italy served to document the breed and support its recognition by the ENCI. In the Sicilian countryside, it was simply referred to as the sheepfold dog, without a breed name.
