Cane Corso Breed Information & Background

A descendant of Italian Mastiffs, the Cane Corso breed was known for being a strong hunting and warrior dog back in its time. Later on, these dogs became trustful guardians and all-purpose farm dogs as well. The breed made a late appearance to the United States and wasn’t brought over until 1988.

By 2010, the Cane Corso breed was finally recognized by the American Kennel Club. Cane corso’s have a strong and muscular built. As long as they are being cared for by a loving and supportive family, they can be raised to be a great household pet. However if they have been treated poorly, they may show aggression and become a danger to the public.

Cane Corso Temperament & Personality

This breed is intelligent and has an affectionate personality. When trained properly, can be the perfect companion with the right guidance. It’s important to note that this breed is not a dog for novice owners. They can be domineering and take control over an owner if they sense hesitation or uncertainty.

The Cane Corso may show aggression when confronted by a stranger, and may demonstrate poor behavior with dogs of the same sex.

Obedience and protectiveness are common Cane Corso characteristics, especially when they are in unfamiliar situations. It’s imperative that this breed has early socialization to other dogs and people as young as possible.

How to Train Cane Corsos

Cane Corsos are quick learners but need to be mentally stimulated on a daily basis. Training efforts are a great way to keep them entertained. One of the most important training exercises for this breed is socialization. Introduce them to new places, people, noises, and experiences as early as possible. While they do respond well to incentives like positive reinforcement for good behavior, make sure to also use firm commands to show your authority.

Exercise Requirements for Cane Corsos

Even though they are a large dog, Cane Corsos only need a moderate level of exercise. Two walks a day is highly recommended to keep them in good shape. When walking a Cane Corso, make sure they are always on a leash in order to protect any other animals that they might become tempted to go after.

Along with physical activity, mental stimulation is very important as well. You can do this through learning tricks, herding cattle, or athletic sports.

Cane Corso Lifespan

A Cane Corso lifespan ranges anywhere from 10-12 years. Since this dog is categorized as a larger breed, Cane Corso life expectancy tends to be shorter compared to smaller dogs due to the fact that they age at a faster rate.

Are Cane Corsos a Popular Breed?

Even though they are still a relatively new breed, they are currently ranked 40th most popular breed in the United States by the American Kennel Club.

Feeding Requirements for Cane Corsos

Being such a large dog, the Cane Corso needs lots of high-quality food to keep them at their best. It is recommended to feed them between 4-5 cups of food each day. How much you feed your dog depends on their size, activity level, metabolism, and age.

In order to prevent excessive weight gain, make sure to have set feeding times instead of having a filled bowl that they can snack on all day.

How to Groom a Cane Corso

The Cane Corso has a short thick coat that sheds heavily twice per year. To keep their coat nice and healthy, brush it twice a week with a soft-bristled brush. For the most part, the Cane Corso is relatively low maintenance when it comes to their grooming. For optimal Cane Corso health, trim their nails twice a month and check their ears for wax built-up.

Are Cane Corsos Good With Children?

As long as Cane Corso’s are raised around children, they will have no problems being in a family setting. They showcase a calm and gentle personality, but still like to play around. To develop a strong relationship between your Cane Corso and your children, make sure they are socialized at a young age.

Cane Corso Health Problems

• Hip dysplasia: Cane Corsos are at high risk for hip dysplasia. This genetic abnormality in the hip socket can cause lameness or pain. Elbow dysplasia: 10% of Cane Corsos are diagnosed with elbow dysplasia each year. This causes front leg lameness and lack of mobility.
• Bloat: Gastric dilatation-volvulus is one Cane Corso health issue that is often a cause for concern with this breed. Bloat occurs when the stomach fills with gas or food and causes the stomach to twist, trapping gasses, and then cuts off blood supply to tissues. This is a life-threatening emergency that should see professional help immediately.
• Eyelid Problems: Two eye problems affecting the eyelid commonly occur in this breed: The first issue is Entropion, in which the lid rolls inward and the lashes irritate the cornea. The second issue is Ectropion, in which the lid rolls outward and leaves a gap between the lid and the eyeball.
• Cherry eye: Also called a prolapsed nictitans gland, commonly occurs in this breed more than most. Cherry eye is one of the eye problems affecting this breed that causes a gland in the eye to protrude in a red and fleshy mass. Although it is not a serious issue, it can be surgically treated if necessary.
• Demodicosis: Although Demodex mange mites are present in most dogs, some breeds have an immune deficiency which can cause hair loss after being infected by these parasitic mites.
• Epilepsy: Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that causes seizures. These seizures may be from tumors, toxins, or infections.
• Fungal ear infections: If a Cane Corso does not have cropped ears, then they are at a higher risk for fungal ear infections. If you assume that your dog has an ear infection, take them to the veterinarian so they can provide the proper medication for treatment.

Other Resources

National Breed Website: Cane Corso Association of America

Rescues: Cane Corso Rescue