Cane Corso
The powerful Cane Corso has a life expectancy of 10 to 11 years.
Origin
The Cane Corso is one of two mastiff-type breeds that originated in Italy and descended from the Canis Pugnax, a large and powerful Roman war dog. The Cane Corso was seen on the battlefield and also in the coliseum fighting other animals including lions and bulls. When the Roman Empire fell, the Cane Corso transitioned to a farm, hunting and guard dog. As industrialization took hold, the breed again evolved into more of a family dog.
The Cane Corso was close to extinction in the 1970s and could only be seen in the southern region of Italy. Fortunately, they were saved by a group of determined breeders and are now found all over the world.
Size
The large Cane Corso weighs 85 to 120 pounds and measures 23.5 to 27.5 inches.
Grooming Needs
The Cane Corso has a short, thick double coat that sheds lightly most of the year, but more heavily during the change of seasons. The Cane Corso’s coat is low maintenance and only requires a weekly brushing and the occasional bath. Like all dogs, the Cane Corso also needs basic grooming. Brush their teeth, clean their ears and trim their nails on a regular basis.
Character
The Cane Corso is a dedicated and effective guardian as well as a sweet and loyal companion.
Temperament
The Cane Corso is devoted and loyal to their family and very affectionate with them. The Cane Corso grows quite attached to their family, including any children in the home. The Cane Corso’s biggest desire is to be with the people they love, and they can develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods of time.
The Cane Corso is also a dedicated protector. Although they are not naturally aggressive, the Cane Corso is quick to defend their family. They are alert and wary of strangers. If not well socialized, Cane Corsos can become territorial and possessive. However, a properly trained Cane Corso is skilled at differentiating between welcome and unwelcome visitors.
Training Needs
The Cane Corso is smart and eager to please, but dominant and strong willed. The Cane Corso does best with a strong, firm leader they can respect. Cane Corsos respond well to consistency and clear direction. The Cane Corso should also be socialized early to help manage any dominant or territorial behavior.
Activity Level
The Cane Corso is energetic and requires lots of exercise and activity. The Cane Corso needs a long daily walk and time outside in a secure area to run around and play. Although Cane Corsos are they large, they make good jogging and hiking companions.
