Cane Corso: Characteristics, Grooming, Health, Training

(Italian Mastiff)

Group: Mastiff, Working

Also Known As: Cane Corso Italiano, Italian Mastiff, Cane di Macellaio, Sicilian Branchiero

About Cane Corso

History of the Breed The Cane Corso originated in Italy. Their name comes from the word COHORS meaning ‘guard of the courtyard.’ It is known that Cane Corsos were housed in kennels and used by the military in 1137 in Monopoli di Sabina near Rome. For many years, Cane Corso was common throughout Italy. They are mentioned in poetry and prose in the 1500s. They were associated with farmers as a good all-purpose dog – one who can be used to do farm work as well as guard the farm and livestock. Its aggressive and combative nature was necessary for reaching its goal; however, its social nature helped it to react only when necessary and to understand the necessity through human gestures and attitude.

A General Appearance of the Dog

The Cane Corso is a solidly built medium to large mastiff-type dog. His muzzle (nose) is very broad and deep. His broad head has a square appearance because of his jowls. The Corso’s thick skin tightly covers a very powerful, well-muscled body that is broader in front than in back. His tail is short and thick – either naturally or docked – and carried level with his back when he is alert. He is athletic and moves with elegance. He appears noble and majestic and gives the appearance of a guard dog.

Coat Color

Black, red, shades of gray, shades of fawn, and a color composed of stripes of shades of fawn or tan and gray called tubby. Any of these colors can also be brindled. Dark brown eyes and black muzzles are appropriate on black, fawn, red and brindles of these colors. Gray muzzles and lighter eyes are acceptable on lighter colored dogs. A white patch may appear on the chest, throat, chin, backs of the legs, or the toes.

Coat Type

The coat is short, very stiff, and shiny. A dense undercoat gets thicker in cold weather.

Height

Males: 25 – 27 inches
Females: 23.5 – 26 inches

Weight

Males: 90 -110 lbs
Females: 80 – 100 lbs.

Personality

Temperament of the Dog

The Cane Corso is docile, loving, and affectionate with his owner and family. He warms up to friends who visit often. However, he is a fierce protector of his property and family. He is intelligent and willing to please, so can be easily trained. Socialization and training need to begin when he is young and continue through at least his first two years.

Extremely loyal, this dog knows instinctively when to become terrifying, defensive and protective. He has an even temperament and is very gentle with children.

They are not normally barkers but will bark to alert their owners of a strange situation.

Housebreaking can be difficult if not begun early and continued consistently. All members of the family need to learn to be Alpha with this dog, so the help of an experienced trainer is advised. Obedience training throughout their lives is strongly recommended. Chewing can be an issue with the puppies.

Better suited to an indoor or outdoor lifestyle?

Cane Corso should not be put in the yard and forgotten. While he can handle all types of weather and take care of himself, he greatly desires the attention and love of his family. He is a social dog who wants interaction with people and other dogs if possible. He needs a securely fence yard with room to run. Electric “invisible containment systems” do not deter this dog.

Cane Corso is a fine dog for indoors or even apartments, but remember he is a large dog so needs thorough socialization and early and continuing obedience training. He will need daily vigorous exercise – walks, jogging, runs in a dog park, games of fetch, etc.

Are they suited to homes with kids?

The Cane Corso bonds quickly to his family, especially children. They are protective of the entire family. They are very gentle and patient with children and seem to understand their innocence and vulnerability. They love the attention of the family and enjoy being included in family activities.

Activity Level

How Active is the Breed?

This is an active and athletic breed.

How Much Exercise Does the Dog Need at every stage of its Life?

Puppies are very active and require a number of short playtimes throughout the day. As the dog matures, he can do activities such as jogging with his master. He enjoys playing very actively and he is quite athletic throughout his life.

Grooming

The Cane Corso is easy to groom as he is a light shedder and only needs brushing a couple of times a month. A couple of baths a year are necessary only if he smells bad. He does need monthly tick and flea preventative.

Health and Care

Cane Corsos are generally a healthy breed, able to withstand a variety of climates and very pain tolerant, except for their ears which are very sensitive.

Genetic Problems

Cane Corsos are prone to hip dysplasia, bloat, red mange (a skin condition caused by mites), and several eye problems including cherry eye, entropion, and ectropion.

Breeding the Dog and any Cautions

Be in contact with other breeders if you choose to breed your Cane Corso.

Litter Size: Litters can be 4-8 puppies.

Life Span: The average lifespan is 10-11 years.

National Breed Clubs

US – Cane Corso Association of America – www.cancorso.org
International Cane Corso Federation – iccfregistry @ yahoo . com

Other Recognition: FCI, NKC, APRI, ACR

The Cane Corso is part of the Foundation Stock Service of the American Kennel Club.