Cursinu

 The Cursinu is an ancient but rare breed of dog that originated on the island of Corsica at some point around the 16^th century. They were employed most frequently as shepherds and guardians of the home, but they also made excellent hunting dogs. The breed was popular on the island until the 1950s when competition from the importation of other dog breeds reduced their numbers. Their numbers declined enough that by 1988, people had begun expressing concern, and the following year the Corsican Dog protection society, Association de sauvegarde du Chien Corse, was established in France. The goals set by the Corsican Dog Protection Society included encouraging use and guiding breeding of the canines, setting the characteristics and status of the breed, establishing a breed standard, and to attain official recognition by the French Kennel Club. In 1994, there were only 595 Cursinu dogs registered with just over 200 identified, measured, and photographed, but vigorous campaigns in the area led to their inclusion into the French Kennel Club in 2003, and the first breed standard was registered the next year. The modern Cursinu is more likely to be utilized when hunting rather than as a shepherd and although they specialize in boar, they are quite adept at catching rabbits and fox as well. The association changed its name to The Cursinu Club, and updated its statues to reflect their new status. As of 2006, their numbers have rebounded and more than 2000 Cursinu dogs could be found on the island, and their population has expanded to the French mainland.