Ethics Policy
At the British Cane Corso Society, we believe that protecting the future of the Cane Corso begins with responsibility, integrity and care.
Our Ethics Policy reflects our shared commitment to responsible ownership, ethical breeding and the long-term welfare of the breed in the United Kingdom. Everything we do — as members, breeders, officers and representatives — should place the well being of the dog first. The welfare of the Cane Corso must always take priority over financial, competitive or personal interests.
Scope of This Ethics Policy
This policy applies to:
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All members of the British Cane Corso Society
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Breeder Members participating in the Breeder Recognition Scheme
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Committee Members and officers
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Volunteers representing the Society
This Ethics Policy supports and operates alongside our Constitution and governance framework.
Core Ethical Principles
Welfare First
The health, temperament and overall well being of the Cane Corso must always come first.
The Society does not support practices that:
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Compromise physical or mental health
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Encourage exaggeration of breed type at the expense of function
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Misrepresent health, pedigree or temperament
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Prioritise profit over responsible breeding and care
Maintaining a sound, stable and functional Cane Corso is essential to protecting the breed’s long-term future in the UK.
Responsible Cane Corso Ownership
Owning a Cane Corso carries significant responsibility. Members are expected to promote safe, lawful and informed ownership by:
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Providing appropriate training and socialisation
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Ensuring proper management and control
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Committing to lifelong care
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Supporting responsible rehoming where necessary
As ambassadors for the breed, members help shape public perception and protect the reputation of the Cane Corso in the United Kingdom.
Ethical Breeding Standards
The British Cane Corso Society supports breeding practices that are welfare-led, transparent and responsible.
Breeders should:
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Prioritise sound temperament and good health
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Undertake relevant health testing where appropriate
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Represent breeding stock and puppies honestly
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Provide ongoing guidance and support to puppy owners
Breeding decisions should contribute positively to the stability and integrity of the Cane Corso breed — not simply respond to market demand.
Conduct and Standards of Behaviour
Members, officers and representatives of the BCCS are expected to act with:
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Honesty
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Respect
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Professionalism
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Accountability
Disagreements should be handled constructively and through appropriate Society procedures.
Public communication — including online platforms — should reflect the standards of conduct expected of members of a national Cane Corso breed society.
Enforcement and Accountability
The Society takes its ethical standards seriously.
Concerns regarding potential breaches of this Ethics Policy may be submitted in writing to the Committee for review.
All matters will be considered fairly and proportionately, in accordance with the Society’s Constitution and disciplinary procedures.
Members will be given the opportunity to respond before any decision is made.
Our Commitment to the Future
The British Cane Corso Society recognises that best practice in canine welfare evolves.
We are committed to reviewing our ethics guidelines in light of:
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Veterinary and health developments
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Welfare research
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Legislative changes
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Breed-specific guidance
By working together and supporting responsible ownership and ethical breeding, we aim to protect and strengthen the future of the Cane Corso in the United Kingdom.
