Cane Corso is an old Italian breed, with evidence to its use during the Roman Empire. However, after World War II, changes in how people hunted and raised livestock led to the breed’s decline, so much so that it was facing extinction. Fanciers, however, have saved the breed.
The Cane Corso is 23.5 to 27 inches tall, weighs 90 to 120 pounds, and has a large head, short muzzle, and muscular jaws. The ears are either naturally dropped or cropped upright. His body is strong and powerful, and his tail is docked. His coat is short and stiff and may be black, gray, or fawn.
Grooming the Cane Corso consists of twice weekly brushing with a soft bristle brush or curry comb. The Cane Corso is not an overly active breed but does need daily activity. Walks that provide socialization opportunities are good, as he needs to continue to meet people. He will also enjoy games, especially with kids, but he is not good at amusing himself—he prefers to do what the family is doing.
The Cane Corso is a dominant guardian breed that requires extensive socialization, thorough obedience training, and confident owners who understand how to establish pack order. This dog breed is intelligent and responsive to training, and if bonded to his owner, is willing to please.
It is strongly recommended that training become a permanent part of your life. This is a complicated, intelligent dog breed and is not for most pet owners. Anyone considering the Cane Corso breed should do considerable research on the breed temperament and meet several dogs. Those who understand living with a dominant dog will find the Cane Corso affectionate, loyal, and protective. When raised with kids who treat him with respect, the Cane Corso is awesome. He can be good with other pets when raised with them. Health concerns include eyelid problems, bloat, torsion, and hip dysplasia.
One reply on “Cane Corso”
Often described as a “coursing mastiff,” the Cane Corso outdoes the other mastiff breeds in athleticism, agility, speed, energy level, and sense of adventure.
This robust dog needs his share of exercise, but above all he requires personal interaction and lots of companionship. He lives for his family and may become destructive if left alone too much.
Cane Corso puppies should be friendly and trusting with strangers. With proper socialization, they become more aloof and discerning as they mature.
As with all mastiffs, socialization is an absolute requirement to promote the correct temperament, which is protective, but in a calm, stable, discriminating way. Unfortunately, some people are breeding or raising these dogs in irresponsible ways that can produce dogs with unstable, aggressive temperaments that can be dangerous to innocent people.
Though the Cane Corso was not used for dog-fighting, dog aggression (often very serious) can still be a problem. He should be thoroughly socialized with other dogs from an early age.
The Cane Corso is more attentive to his owner and more responsive to training than other mastiffs, and though quite dominant and strong-willed, will respect an owner who is confident and consistent.
Cane Corsos have tighter skin than other mastiffs and drool less. Some love to dig, and most enjoy splashing in water, whether it be the pond, a mudhole, the lawn sprinkler, or their water bowl. These are not dainty dogs.