The Cane Corso isn’t as popular as the Labrador Retrievers and Golden retrievers, but they are definitely worth checking out. This breed does seem a bit intimidating at first. I mean just look at their size! With almost 28 inches at the shoulder plus weighing 100 pounds, they do seem scary. Not to mention their large head, alert expression, and muscles rippling beneath their short, stiff coat! However, despite this, the Cane Corso is actually a very affectionate and intelligent dog breed. Breed’s name has its origin in Latin and means “guard of the estate”, although some experts say their name translates to “coursing dog”. It means that they pursue their prey using sight, instead of scent like other dogs.
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Cane Corso
The Cane Corso is one of many Mastiff breed dogs. This breed was developed in southern Italy. Corso’s lineage goes back to Roman war dogs. Even though they do seem intimidating at first glance, they are also majestic. They are beautiful dogs, but they are definitely not for everyone. If you’re thinking about getting one you should be aware that there are so many things you need to learn. Also, these dogs need an experienced owner, someone who knows what they’re doing and how to train them.
With that being said let’s dive right into all the traits that make the Cane Corso such a great dog.
Also read: Pit Bull – Complete Breed Info
The appearance of Cane Corsi
As mentioned above this breed is pretty large and muscular. But it’s exactly their size and strength that make them so popular. When it comes to their weight, a full-grown Cane Corso female weighs between 88 and 99 pounds. Males are of course bigger and weigh between 90 and 110 pounds! This breed is not only heavy but very tall too! Males are between 25 and 27.5 inches at the shoulders, whereas females are between 23.5 and 26 inches. The Cane Corsi are very large and muscular purebred dogs with their recognizable majestic stance. They have floppy ears which give them a bit of cute look.
Cane Corsi Breed Colors
Breed’s coat is short and double-layered and the color can range from black, gray, fawn, red, or brindle. The texture of the coat is coarse, thick, and sometimes tufted. Many people compare it to the coat of a cow.
Their coat must be nourished at a regular basis.
Also read: Greyhound Dog Breed Info
Personality characteristics
The Cane Corso is a little bit controversial and a combination of their personality and looks is the breed’s trademark. They used to be described as having a vigorous temperament. This is why they need a strong hand, who will show them what they can and can’t do. They need an owner who will be consistent. Someone who will give them good leadership and prevents the dog from acting out.
Generally speaking, just like it is with Bull Dogs, Cane Corsi can be amazing dogs. They can be very affectionate, loving, and a great family dog. With the right environment, they won’t ever show aggression. That is if they are in good hands. However, with the wrong owner, they might turn into aggressive monsters and real danger to society.
To get a Cane Corso to be that loving and affectionate dog they need a lot of training and socialization. Your family members will be impressed what a “guard property” dog you own.
Cane Corso temperament
Cane Corsi dogs are famous for hunting animals like wild boar. Their majestic stance shows them sometimes in a bad manner, but if trained and worked with, they are truly gentle giants. Their deep history can show us that they were made to use their instinctual need for hunting and being a bodyguard dog.
But, if an owner is not a couch potato and kind of an unwitting owner, Cane Corsi can have cute look with much time invested in their training and development.
Is Cane Corso the same as Neapolitan Mastiff?
Many how asked such questions, looking for differences and similarities between these two “protector” breeds. While Cani Corsi are more social and cheerful, Neos are said to be more obedient, dominant, and fearless dogs.
Intelligent Cane Corsi
You probably guessed it, the Cane Corso is a very intelligent breed! Which is another reason why they need a good, confident owner. Because they are so smart they will test their boundaries inside the house. They’ll do anything to see how far they can go with you. That’s why it’s important to set clear rules from the beginning. Be strict, but never hit your dog! Also, reward them when they’ve done something right. The Cane Corso needs a good, confident owner because of the high prey drive which has to be controlled.
Early socialization is key with the Cane Corso. Let your dog meet as many different people. Teach them that there is no need to be afraid of strangers, children, adults, other dogs, and animals in general. The more socialization the better for you and your environment! This is because, without a lot of experience of the world, this dog can easily become fearful or aggressive!
How to take care of a Cane Corso
This breed needs a lot of exercise! Physical activity is a must for a Cane Corso to stay in shape as he is considered a working dog. This means that long walks or maybe even jogging and hiking will become part of your daily routine too!
Mental stimulation is just as important as physical too! Always keep your dog busy. Give them a job or a task, this way you’ll keep them entertained. Also, teach them different tricks and practice obedience skills with them!
Even though they have a short coat, they still shed heavily, so brushing is a must! Because this breed tends to get aggressive sometimes, start early on with grooming. So while they are still a puppy start with baths, cutting nails, and brushing!
Health issues
Generally speaking, the Cane Corso is a very, very healthy breed! However, there are illnesses like hip dysplasia and eyelid abnormalities like entropion, ectropion, and cherry eye that can affect them. Besides this, demodectic mange which can be heritable and gastric torsion, also known as bloat can be issues too.
Healthy development
It is a good idea to start from puppies and take into consideration every step that can help to raise a healthy puppy, later a strong, powerful dog. You have to be really good and devoted pet parents since you will be raising one of the most dominant dog breeds out there, but those families will be rich in every way.
Be sure Cane Corsi will always be looking for cats and other small animals, so you have to have a tall fence around the backyard. They will thrive on positive reinforcement and socialization.
Health conditions need to be monitored on a regular basis. Brisk walk will help a lot, so juts put it in a bit faster speed than a regular stroll.
Exercise
Exercise is a must with them. Visit the National breed club and learn more about important behaviors characteristics.
Be aware that all the health issues are not to be seen in every dog.
Cane Corso Association of America
The official American Kennel Club (AKC) Parent Breed Club for the Cane Corso in the United States of America is working on preserving the working ability and intelligence of this dog breed. It also represents the largest CCAA in North America. Their biggest challenge and mission is to educate the public about Cani Corsi and present the positiveness of this giant breeds representative.
Best dog food for Cane Corso puppies
Cane Corsi can weigh more than 50 pounds at maturity, so be sure to choose a large or giant breed formula to support their joint health and mobility. Since they are known for sometimes being a little overweight, you have to be careful with portion sizes. Also, be sure to check with the breeder what food was given to puppies to continue the same practice. So, be sure not to get in pursue of the right puppy but search for a great breeder.
How to take care and train Cane Corso puppies?
Or are you interested in Cane Corso price, adult dog or young pup?
Interesting Fact: Plural of Cane Corso is Cani Corsi
Conclusion
The Cane Corso is an amazing breed of a working dog. They are very intelligent and can be affectionate. Sometimes they tend to be aggressive, but that’s why they need a firm hand to lead them. They need an owner who will teach them what is good and bad behavior. Someone who won’t be afraid to be firm with them. They also need someone who will.
The Cane Corso is an amazing breed of dog. They are very intelligent and can be affectionate. They sometimes tend to be aggressive, but that’s why they need a firm hand to lead them. They need an owner who will teach them what is good and bad behavior. Someone who won’t be afraid to be firm with them. They also need someone who will teach them tricks and invest time in them. If you’re considering getting and you are a first time dog owner of a Cane Corso, be aware that it will be a lot of work! But it is definitely worth it!
Thinking of rescuing one? Try Must Love Corso Rescue, where Melanie Vandewalle and her team will educate you and help you help Cani Corsi. A win-win formula! 🙂
Also, try contacting Castleguard Corso for generations of excellence, as they say.