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PhrasesHiking in ItalyBuongiorno! I cani sono pericolosi?
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Buongiorno! I cani sono pericolosi?

Good morning! Are the dogs dangerous?

Pronunciation

Pericolosi: peh-ree-ko-LOH-zee. Stress on the fourth syllable. Plural of pericoloso.

When to use it

Use when approaching a shepherd (pastore) with guard dogs on an alpine pasture. Maremmano-Abruzzese sheepdogs are large, powerful, and protective — always ask before approaching.

What it means

Buongiorno opens with a respectful greeting. Pericolosi is the masculine plural adjective for dangerous. This short phrase shows respect and alertness — shepherds will appreciate it.

Variations

Posso passare?

May I pass?

Simple request when crossing a shepherd's territory.

Le pecore sono sue?

Are the sheep yours?

Friendly opener to start a conversation with a shepherd.

Dove portano le pecore d'estate?

Where do they take the sheep in summer?

About transumanza — the ancient seasonal migration.

Mini Dialogue

— Buongiorno! I cani sono pericolosi? — No, se cammina tranquillo non la toccano. — Bene. Posso passare? — Certo, passi pure. Buona passeggiata.

— Good morning! Are the dogs dangerous? — No, if you walk calmly they won't touch you. — Good. May I pass? — Of course, go ahead. Have a good walk.

Cultural Note

Maremmano-Abruzzese sheepdogs (cani da pastore maremmano-abruzzese) are one of Italy's oldest breeds, used for centuries to guard flocks from wolves. They're not aggressive toward calm humans but will bark loudly and posture — walk slowly and don't run.