Although this breed is over 2000 years old, there are several views as to its exact origin. Some that claim that there are 2 separate breeds: The Maremmano and the heavier Abruzzese. Other believe the current breed is a combination of both as a result of breeding by Prince Corsini. Regardless the two where established as a single breed with a hyphenated name.
Although it is now seen regularly in Great Britain, this breed is still rare in other countries outside Italy. It is strong-willed and not easy to obedience train, but makes a excellent guard.