By Lisa Wade McCormick
ConsumerAffairs.com
 The Cane Corso |
"These three diverse breeds all share rich and unique histories and a dedicated group of fanciers in the United States," said AKC spokeswoman Lisa Peterson. "We are delighted to grant them full AKC recognition and watch as each breed continues to thrive and grow."
The Icelandic Sheepdog will join the Herding Group and the Leonberger and Cane Corso will join the Working Group. The breeds mark the 165th-167th in the organization that advocates for purebred dogs, canine health, and responsible dog ownership.
The muscular Cane Corso is one of two native Italian "mastiff type" dogs that descended from the Roman canis Pugnaces. The breeds name comes from the Latin cohors, which means guardian and protector.
The Cane Corso fought alongside soldiers in ancient battles. The breed is also a watchdog and hunter of such animals as wild boars.
The AKC said the Cane Corso is intelligent, easily trained, and affectionate with its owner and loving with children and family.
The Icelandic Sheepdog is Icelands only native dog, the AKC said. It is a playful, friendly, inquisitive, and agile dog that arrived in Iceland in AD 874- 930. At one point, the Icelandic Sheepdog was close to extinction. But the breed is now growing in popularity, the AKC said.
The Leonberger is often called the "nanny" dog because of its affinity for children. These calm and non-aggressive dogs were originally bred as family, farm, and draft dogs. Today, the Leonberger is a multipurpose working dog and reliable family companion. These large and graceful dogs have also been featured on stamps in European countries.
More information about the Leonberger, Icelandic Sheepdog, and Cane Corso is available on the AKCs Web site.
