The Italian Corso Dog is also known as Cane Corso or Italian Mastiffand it is without a doubt, together with the Neapolitan mastiff, one of the most impressive Italian mastiff-type Molossian dog breeds. Its name derives from the Latin "cohors" which means "protector, guardian of the corral".
If you are thinking of adopting a Cane Corso, it will be essential that you first investigate its character, training, physical characteristics and even possible he alth problems that affect the breed on a regular basis. Only in this way will you guarantee a good adaptation to your home. Keep reading on this page of our site to find out all about the Cane Corso or Italian Mastiff:
Origin of the cane corso
The cane corso is a direct descendant of the Roman Molossian, known as canis pugnax, a huge molossian that was used in the first century as war dog He worked on the battlefield itself, alongside the combatants, and was an excellent guard dog. Also popular was his presence in the arenas, when he was fighting bears, lions and other wild animals that were imported to the European continent
The Italian Mastiff became a popular dog in Italy, common among the working class, although at one time its population declined considerably, with few specimens remaining in the province of Apulia. Apart from guarding farms, the Corsican dog was also an excellent herding dog and was used for hunting large game. It was not until 1970 that the systematic breeding of this breed began again.
Physical characteristics of the cane corso
The Italian Mastiff is medium to large in size, very stocky and strong, yet elegant. The head is wide and slightly convex at the front. The median-frontal groove is evident and the naso-frontal depression is well marked. The nose is black and the snout noticeably shorter than the skull. The eyes are medium, ovoid, slightly protruding and dark in color. The ears are triangular, hanging and set high. They are traditionally amputated, although this cruel custom is gradually disappearing and is even illegal in many countries.
The body is strong and stocky, but not stocky. On the contrary, the Cane Corso is one of the most elegant bulldogs that exist, without losing its robustness. The topline is straight and very muscular. The chest is wide, deep and long. The tail is set high and very thick at the base. All breed standards indicate that it must be amputated, but this tradition is also being lost, luckily for dogs. The coat is dense, shiny and short. It has an inner layer of thin hair. It can be black, gunmetal, slate gray, light gray, light fawn, dark fawn, fawn, or brindle.
The measurements of the Italian Corso dog
- Machos: between 64 and 68 centimeters at the withers, weighing between 45 and 50 kilograms.
- Females: between 60 and 64 centimeters at the withers, weighing between 40 and 45 kilograms.
Cane corso character
The breeders who work with this breed look for a very specific temperament in the dog. They must be good guardians, whether to protect family, livestock, or property. Qualities related to big game hunting and livestock are also sought.
It is a dog independent, generally territorial and very protective It creates a very close bond with its relatives, especially with children, whom he cares for and protects. Unlike other dogs with these characteristics, the Cane Corso is exceptionally patient and careful, watching the movements with the little ones so as not to harm them. He is also a very athletic dog, he loves to exercise, making him ideal for active families with experience in basic obedience and dog handling. On the contrary, at home it is usually quite quiet.
Is distant with unknown people and they tend to be very self-confident, acting proportionately at all times. Let's not forget that this description can vary depending on the education that the dog receives, however these are some general guidelines of the behavior that he usually shows
Cane corso care
The Cane Corso is a dog that is very easy to care for, as we will not need to spend long hours maintaining it. However, it is important to know some basic details to know what to take into account before adopting one.
To begin with it will be basic brush weekly to remove dead hair. We will use short and soft bristle brushes, so that they do not damage your dermis. On the other hand, we will bathe him every one or three months, depending on the level of dirt, to avoid damaging the natural protection layer of his skin.
Although it is not an excessively active dog, the Cane Corso needs long daily walks to maintain its muscles and release accumulated stress from the body. We recommend three daily walks, of about 30 minutes each and, if possible, accompanied by physical exercise. Going outside can also be combined with activities related to smell, which often promote relaxation and well-being.
It is recommended to keep it in rural environments where it can exercise and show its natural behavior, however it is not a dog that should live outside, its coat is very fine andsensitive to calluses A soft bed must be available at all times.
Education of the cane corso
It is very important to start the education of the Cane Corso about l as 3 weeks of life and up to 12, in full period of socialization. We will teach him to inhibit bite, we will socialize him with people, animals and environments of all kinds and we will introduce him to basic obedience: sit, stay, lie down or come here. Essential for your safety.
Remember that a properly socialized and educated Cane Corso can be a good companion and will tolerate strangers, both human and canine, well. However, one that has not received the correct socialization and education can be extremely territorial, distrustful and even aggressive towards people and dogs. Although well socialized, the Corso is not suitable for novice owners.
Training is not difficult with this breed if it is done correctly and using positive reinforcement. Traditional methods are very counterproductive for training this breed (or any) and, when misapplied, can be counterproductive, generating fear and unwanted behavior in the animal.
He alth of the cane corso
It is important to check the he alth status of the Cane Corso regularly. For this it is recommended to go to the vet every 6 or 12 months, carrying out a complete analysis to rule out any incipient he alth problem in the dog. It will also be essential to follow the dog's vaccination schedule and deworming (internal and external) following the professional's instructions. In addition, this breed is prone to the following diseases:
- Elbow dysplasia
- Hip dysplasia
- Gastric torsion
- Vaginal hyperplasia
- Respiratory problems
- Heatstroke
- Glandular hypertrophy
- Entropion
- Ectropion
- Demodex mange outbreaks at birth
However, if you follow the instructions we have shown you correctly and take good care of your Cane Corso dog, you will be able to enjoy between 10 and 14 years of life.
