Our story

My name is Amber Gentry and I have been training dogs in some form as long as I can remember. Growing up my father had English Setters we trained as quail dogs. I competed in 4H and local showmanship and obedience shows with my rescue Dalmatian. I have owned a purebred timberwolf, pit bulls, and American Bulldogs. As an adult I found and fell in love with Cane Corsos. Shortly after bringing home my first Cane Corso in 2007 I found the sport of Schutzhund (now called IGP). I don’t think I enjoy anything else more than working dogs!

In 2021 I went through a divorce, leaving an abusive relationship. As a single mother I saw a help wanted ad for a dog training company and took a job traveling from Alabama to Virginia to train luxury started puppies and service dogs. Every dog I trained received an excellent test score. In 2022 my employer shut down and gave me a 10 day notice I was loosing my job. Forged by fire, with the desire to work with dogs, follow my passion and be able to continue homeschooling my children- Cane Sportivo was born. Cane Sportivo is Italian for Sport Dog. A fitting name since my passion lies with Cane Corsos and the sport of IGP.

I have a philosophy of balance—a balance of old techniques and new ones, and of passion and skill. I believe we are never done learning and attend workshops and seminars as often as possible.