Cane Corsos: A guide to dogs and puppies of the Cane Corso breed

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The Cane Corso!

The Cane Corso (also referred to as the Italian Mastiff) is a dog that looks a lot like the typical mastiff, although it does not have its loose skin, which reduces its drooling. While they are considered large dogs, they are smaller than other mastiff types. Although it has a massive head, it has quite a dignified facial expression. The Cane Corso has a strong, muscular neck and its ears are often clipped for cosmetic purposes. Its coat is short, thick, and stiff.

Some Quick Facts:

Life Expectancy:
9-11 years

Energy Level:
Less than average

Living Conditions:
Flexible. Apartments are fine.

Barking:
Tend to be quiet.

Exercise Needs:
Daily 40 minute walk.

Breed Group:
Mastiff/Rare

Size:
Large

Height:
23-27 inches

Weight:
80-110 pounds

Standard Hair Colors:
Black, all shades of gray, blue, brindle, some brown shades (fawn)

National breed club:
Cane Corso Association of America

Cane Corso Skills

The Cane Corso is originally from Sicily, Italy, where breeders tried to recreate the Cane di Macellaio, a herding breed that is now extinct. It is also thought that the Cane Corso is a descendant of the Roman Moloss breed. During ancient Roman times, the Cane Corso was used for guarding and herding cattle, aside from protecting their owners from harm. By the 1970s, the breed was in danger of dying out and efforts were made to multiply their number. The race was officially recognized fairly recently in 1996.

Cane Corso Personality

The Cane Corso works as an excellent and athletic guard dog, loyal and affectionate to his family and quite reserved with strangers. Although originally bred as a guard dog, the Cane Corso is not naturally aggressive; rather, it works to be protective and they tend to stick with their owners. It is a breed that is quiet, but knows when to turn aggressive at the right time. In spite of their large appearance, the Cane Corso makes for a great housepet. They require a lot of training and attention and are accustomed to being the dominant dog among other breeds. They cannot stand to be isolated among others.

Exercise Needs

The Cane Corso is a highly athletic breed and responds well to long walks, runs, and playful romps with children. They need to be exercised daily.

Living Conditions

The Cane Corso can live in a small apartment so long as it gets enough daily exercise and activity. It also does not mind living outside in the yard if there is adequate shelter for its needs.

Grooming Requirements

There is no need for fancy or professional grooming with the Cane Corso. The breed does not shed heavily. Comb through its hair in order to remove dead hair from time to time.

Health Issues

The Cane Corso is not immune to common dog ailments. Make sure you watch out for hip dysplasia, abnormalities with its eyelids (common to other mastiffs), bloat, and demodex mange (non-contagious).

If you liked this dog…

...consider the Mastiff, which is thought to have contributed to the bloodline of the Cane Corso. It is an excellent working and companion dog and good with children.