Pet Wiki

Cane Paratore

Also called Cane Toccatore, Paratore

Rare breedShort profile

From Abruzzo, central Italy.1

At a glance the quick version

Weight8 to 10 kg1
Height30 to 35 cm1
Sizesmall

Source gives 8-10 kg for adults without splitting by sex.

gentle, low-pressure herding style
adaptable
great stamina
1

Coat and looks how to spot one

short or semi-long coat

A small, light farm herder. The coat length varies, with short and medium-length coats both common.1

Coloursagoutisablegrey brindlemerle (leopard)blacktan with black mask1

Personality what they are like

A quick-maturing, watchful little dog with a protective streak that copes well in many conditions. It works livestock calmly, by touching the animals lightly or simply blocking their way rather than pushing hard.1

Daily activity how busy a day looks

High; a working herding dog with lots of endurance.1

The story where it all began

A traditional herding dog of Abruzzo shepherds that is little known outside Italy. Genetic work published in 2018 links its roots to a widespread European herding dog population from before 1859. Changes in farming have made it increasingly rare.1

Fun facts for the dinner table

  1. 1

    Its alternative name 'Toccatore' reflects its habit of lightly touching livestock to steer them.1

  2. 2

    Instead of chasing, it often controls animals just by standing in their path.1

  3. 3

    A 2018 genetic study placed its ancestry within an old, widely spread European herding lineage.1

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The name Cane Paratore comes from an Italian dialect where 'Paratore' translates to 'to stand in front' or 'to touch,' reflecting the breed's herding method of moving livestock through light touches or standing in their path.1

Name ideas for your new friend

PippoBellaNinaTitoLolaPepeDoraCinoMiaLeoFridaOscar

A day in the life told by a Cane Paratore

Today I patrolled my little patch of pasture, keeping a watchful eye on the flock. I don't need to bark or nip; a gentle touch or a quiet stand is enough to guide them. A lamb tried to wander off, so I stepped in front of it and gave a soft nudge. It turned right back. My human smiled and gave me a scratch behind the ears. We walked together in the warm sun, and I felt important and happy. Now I'm curled in my cozy spot, dreaming of tomorrow's quiet work.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

FCI / major kennel clubs
Not recognised by the FCI or other major kennel clubs.1
ENCI
Listed as not recognised.2

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Cane Paratore. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

  • 1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

  1. Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
  2. Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
  3. Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

  • 1 cooking pumpkin
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
  • Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

  1. Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
  2. Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
  3. Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
  4. Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
  5. Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
  6. Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
  7. Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Homemade Dog Biscuits (Chicken & Rice)

A simple, tasty treat made from gentle ingredients that are easy on sensitive stomachs, perfect for rewarding without upset.

You need

  • 1 egg
  • 170g boiled chicken breast
  • 100g cooked plain rice
  • 60ml chicken stock (homemade or no added salt)
  • 680g plain flour (adjust as needed for consistency)

How

  1. Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
  2. Blitz the boiled chicken, cooked rice, and chicken stock in a blender until smooth.
  3. Transfer to a bowl, add the egg and flour, and mix well.
  4. Dust a clean surface with flour, turn out the dough, and knead until no longer sticky.
  5. Roll dough to about 1cm thickness and cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
  6. Place on the tray and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
  7. Cool completely before serving.

How much: 1–2 biscuits as an occasional treat for a medium-sized healthy dog. Adjust for your dog's size, age, and activity level.

Recipe from Blue Cross

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Cane Paratore, and at what times?

Feed your Cane Paratore at least two meals a day for an adult, and three to four smaller meals for a puppy. Stick to set times each day, as their stomach empties within a few hours. For exact amounts, check the food label and ask your vet.3

What should a Cane Paratore eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for their age and activity level. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts. Never give them alcohol, caffeine, or raw meat and bones.4

How often should I bathe a Cane Paratore?

Furry Diary's starting plan suggests a bath every 56 days, but general guidance says at least once every three months. Bathe more often if they get very dirty or have skin issues. Use a dog-safe shampoo and avoid over-bathing.5 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Cane Paratore need brushing?

Brush your Cane Paratore weekly, as suggested by Furry Diary's plan. Their coat can be short or medium-length, so weekly brushing keeps it healthy and reduces shedding. For longer coats, daily brushing may be needed.5 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Cane Paratore's nails, and how often?

Trim nails every 21 days, or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick (the pink part). If unsure, ask your vet or a groomer for a demonstration.5 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Cane Paratore need?

This breed has high activity needs and lots of endurance, so daily walks and play are essential. Furry Diary's plan recommends daily exercise. They are a working herding dog, so they thrive with plenty of physical and mental stimulation.1 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Cane Paratore's teeth and ears?

Brush their teeth daily with dog toothpaste (never human toothpaste) and check ears weekly, especially since floppy ears trap moisture. Dry ears gently and never push anything into the ear canal. Regular vet checks help too.5 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Cane Paratore live?

Lifespan varies by individual, but senior years usually start around age 10. For a more precise estimate, ask your vet or a good breeder, as it depends on genetics and care. Pet Wiki plan

Is a Cane Paratore good with children and other pets?

Yes, they are a watchful, protective dog that works livestock calmly, so they can be good with children and other pets when properly socialized. Their temperament is quick-maturing and adaptable. Always supervise interactions and introduce slowly.1

Can a Cane Paratore be left alone?

This varies by individual dog and training. As a herding breed with high activity needs, they may not do well alone for long periods. Ask your vet or a good breeder for advice based on your dog's personality.

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.

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Where this comes from

Every fact on this page has a numbered source. Spotted an error? support@petwiki.app.

  1. Wikipedia: Cane Paratore en.wikipedia.orgused for all fields
  2. Wikipedia: List of Italian dog breeds en.wikipedia.orgused for ENCI status
  3. VCA Animal Hospitals: Feeding times and frequency for your dog vcahospitals.comused for owner questions
  4. ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
  5. ASPCA: Dog grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions

Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.