Introducing the Cane Corso
Find out everything you need to know about the Cane Corso: its characteristics, its behaviour, its training, and how much one costs.
The Cane Corso
The Cane Corso, a blend of majesty and loyalty
Tracing back to ancient Italy, the origins of the Cane Corso are deeply rooted in history. Thought to have descended from the old Roman war dog, Canis Pugnax, this breed now stands as one of the most revered and appreciated in the world.
The Cane Corso exhibits a spectrum of admirable qualities: be it showcasing courage in protection or excelling in agility sports, they never cease to impress. Their roles have been diverse; ranging from being fearless hunters to reliable farm dogs. True to their nature, they are fiercely loyal and affectionate, often forming an unbreakable bond with their families. Their love is palpable, as they never miss an opportunity to show their affection, making them both a protective guardian and a gentle companion.
CANE CORSO FACT FILE
This section outlines the unique features of the Cane Corso breed.
Group
The Cane Corso belongs to Group 2, encompassing the likes of Mastiffs and Molossoid breeds. Renowned for their guard and protective instincts, dogs in this group are also noted for their unwavering loyalty and formidable presence.
Size
The Cane Corso is certainly a sizable canine. Generally, they stand between 23.5 and 28 inches at the withers and weigh anywhere from 88 to 110 pounds, with some males even surpassing that.
Coat length
The Cane Corso boasts a short but dense coat, providing an efficient barrier against environmental elements while maintaining a sleek appearance.
Coat colour
Predominantly found in shades of black, fawn, and brindle, the Cane Corso's coat can present a myriad of nuances, including varying intensities of each shade, sometimes accompanied by a black or gray mask.
Living environment
Ideally suited for spacious environments, the Cane Corso thrives in areas where it can patrol and exercise freely, though with proper training, they can adapt to more compact living spaces.
Sociability
While the Cane Corso exhibits a protective nature, it is generally amicable and deeply loyal to its family. They typically get along well with children they've been raised with and can coexist with other pets if introduced appropriately.
Health
Cane Corsos are robust and enduring; however, as with many larger breeds, they can be predisposed to certain joint ailments, like hip dysplasia, and occasionally, skin allergies.
Training
Intrinsically intelligent and eager to please, the Cane Corso is relatively straightforward to train. However, given their dominant nature, a consistent, patient, yet firm approach is essential for optimal results.
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PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS
Cane Corso, the majestic Roman canine
The Cane Corso stands tall as a robust, harmonious, and confident breed. Its coat, often in shades of black, fawn, or brindle, beautifully complements its commanding appearance. One can't miss their expressive face, highlighted by deep-set, watchful eyes.
Size and weight of the Cane Corso
The Cane Corso is undeniably among the larger dog breeds. Typically, females measure between 23.5 and 26 inches, while males can reach heights of 28 inches.
In terms of weight, female Cane Corsos range between 88 and 99 pounds, with males weighing up to 110 pounds or even more in some cases.
Their growth trajectory is fairly rapid. In just a few months, a Cane Corso puppy can already weigh around 40 pounds. By the age of 10 months, many have doubled that weight. Most Cane Corsos attain their full height and weight by their second birthday.
The coat of the Cane Corso
Coat length
The Cane Corso boasts a short, sleek coat, striking in its simplicity and elegance. It lies close to the body, giving them a streamlined appearance without any waves or feathering. This tight coat makes them look even more muscular and powerful, emphasizing their statuesque frame.
Coat colour
The coat colour of the Cane Corso is indeed varied and can present in a range of hues. Common colours include black, fawn, and various shades of brindle, but one might also encounter more rare tones such as grey or chestnut. While the primary coat color can be diverse, some Corsos may sport a masked face which adds a touch of mystique to their appearance.
Coat care
The Cane Corso's coat is relatively low-maintenance compared to some other breeds. Being of short length with a moderate undercoat, it doesn’t tangle or mat easily. However, like many breeds, the Cane Corso does shed, particularly during the change of seasons in spring and autumn. It's advisable to brush them weekly to remove loose hair and keep their coat looking its best. Given the natural oils in their skin and coat, they don’t require frequent baths, but periodic baths will help them stay fresh, especially if they've been particularly active outdoors.
Other characteristics of the Cane Corso
Physical features
The Cane Corso is a harmoniously balanced and well-proportioned dog, exuding both power and grace. Its head is broad and imposing, with a pronounced stop between the forehead and muzzle. Set high on the skull, the ears are triangular.
The Cane Corso’s body is robust with a noticeable musculature, indicating its strength and agility. The tail is typically docked, but when left natural, is of medium length and carried high.
TEMPERAMENT & BEHAVIOUR
What is the temperament of the Cane Corso?
The Cane Corso is known for its unwavering loyalty, keen protective instincts, and affectionate nature towards its family.
Cane Corso category
With over 400 different dog breeds currently recognized, they are categorized into 10 distinct groups based on their shared characteristics and functionalities.
The Cane Corso is a member of group 2, which encompasses breeds such as the Rottweiler, Bernese Mountain Dog, Mastiffs, and other Molossoid breeds. This group is made up of a total of 53 breeds, including the likes of the Doberman, the Boxer, and the Great Dane, among others. Breeds within this category are recognized for their imposing stature, strength, and diligent work ethic. Whether they're utilized as guard dogs, protection dogs, or simply as devoted companions, they consistently display a profound intelligence and a courageous heart.
Behaviour of the Cane Corso
The loyal protector
The Cane Corso is a breed that exudes strength and confidence, yet beneath its formidable exterior lies a heart of gold. Renowned for their unwavering loyalty, these dogs form deep bonds with their human companions, often going to great lengths to show their affection. While they are naturally protective and may appear reserved with strangers, they thrive in the presence of a dedicated and attentive owner who understands their need for consistent interaction and engagement.
Social skills and family integration
Cane Corso, despite their imposing presence, are incredibly social and generous by nature. They exhibit a keen sense of discernment when meeting new people and, once they sense no threat, can be quite welcoming. Their gentle temperament makes them surprisingly good companions for children, provided they have been raised with love and proper training. Early socialization is of paramount importance to ensure that the Cane Corso matures into a well-adjusted adult, able to interact harmoniously with both humans and other animals.
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The Cane Corso's living environment
Versatile living, with a need for space
The Cane Corso, while being versatile in its living conditions, has a preference for spaces where it can stretch its legs and move freely. Whether in a spacious urban home or in the countryside, what truly matters is the amount of attention and love they receive from their owner. Daily exercise is crucial for this breed; it's recommended to take them on at least two walks a day, with each lasting a minimum of 40 minutes.
Physical activity and outdoor exploration
Although adaptable, the Cane Corso is a breed with a rich history of being a working dog. This means they have a natural drive to be active and explore. Having an outdoor space, like a backyard, where they can indulge their curiosity and engage in physical activities is beneficial for their wellbeing. They are also known to enjoy interactive play sessions, training routines, and even agility courses, keeping their minds sharp and bodies active.
Training the Cane Corso
Power matched with intelligence
Training the Cane Corso can be both a rewarding and challenging experience. This breed is not just physically powerful, but also possesses a superior intelligence that requires a consistent and structured approach. Due to their protective nature and strong will, it's vital to establish leadership early on and to maintain it.
Positive reinforcement, patience, and understanding their needs are key elements to successful training. While the Cane Corso is generally obedient and loyal to its owner, its strong instincts can sometimes lead it astray. Thus, equipping your Cane Corso with a GPS dog tracker is a prudent choice to ensure their safety and prevent potential mishaps.
HEALTH & NUTRITION
How to take care of the Cane Corso
The Cane Corso is a robust and mighty breed with a generally good health profile. As with many larger breeds, attentive daily care is paramount in averting potential health issues and ensuring their well-being.
The health of the Cane Corso
Illnesses
Overall, Cane Corsos are known for their resilience and good health. However, being a larger breed, they can be predisposed to certain ailments. Hip dysplasia, a genetic condition resulting in malformation of the hip joint, is one concern to watch out for. Additionally, some Corsos may experience issues with their eyes, such as entropion, where the eyelid rolls inward. Cardiac problems are also seen occasionally, so periodic heart check-ups are beneficial.
The typical life expectancy for a Cane Corso ranges between 9 and 12 years.
Routine care
Ensuring your Cane Corso's health involves regular veterinary visits for vaccinations, deworming, and flea and tick treatments as prescribed.
At home, it's essential to keep up with their grooming needs. Their ears should be checked and cleaned weekly to fend off infections, especially given their natural inclination to be outdoors. Brushing their teeth several times a week will guard against dental issues, and their nails should be trimmed once a month or when you hear them clicking on the floor. The Cane Corso is not considered a hypoallergenic breed.
Feeding the Cane Corso
Daily requirements
As with all breeds, Cane Corsos have their own unique nutritional needs. To ensure their vitality and strength, it's imperative that they receive a balanced diet abundant in proteins and vitamins. For this breed, we advise feeding them premium kibble tailored to their size and energy levels, as this provides a well-rounded dietary foundation.
For those Cane Corsos with higher activity levels, supplementing their diet with lean white and red meats can be beneficial, offering them an extra protein boost. However, it's essential to limit fatty foods to ensure they remain in peak condition.
BREEDING OR ADOPTION & COST
What does a Cane Corso cost?
The Cane Corso is gaining popularity among dog enthusiasts due to its loyalty and majestic presence. Although there are several breeders out there, it's imperative to do some groundwork before deciding on a particular one.
How to choose your Cane Corso
Finding the right breeder
Taking a Cane Corso into your home is a significant commitment, and making an informed decision is of utmost importance. Identifying a trustworthy breeder is paramount. It's advised to make a visit to the breeder’s facility to observe the living conditions, behavior, and overall health of the dogs. Additionally, ensuring the health of the puppy and its parents is vital. Don't hesitate to request comprehensive health records and inquire about any hereditary conditions or illnesses in the lineage.
Lastly, you must have your dog microchipped by the age of 8 weeks old and register their details on a relevant database like Petlog or Animal Tracker. Failing to do so is against the law in Great Britain, resulting in a potential £500 fine. While most vets can provide microchipping for a nominal fee, institutions like Blue Cross offer the service for free.
The price of a Cane Corso
The acquisition cost of a Cane Corso varies based on several factors including lineage, pedigree, the breeder's standing, and the dog's age. Presently, Cane Corso puppies range in price from
to
. Beyond the initial investment, owners should also be prepared for yearly maintenance costs, encompassing vet fees and food, which can average between
to
annually.
Which dog breed is right for you?
Which dog breed is right for you?
Take the test to find out!
Choosing a dog that matches your personality and lifestyle will ensure your well-being and his!
