Cane Corso AKA Italian Mastiff

History and Origin of the Cane Corso

The Cane Corso, or Italian Mastiff, is a Molosser type of dog that was originally created from canis pugnax, which were used during times of war for the Roman army. For years now this breed has been kept for guarding purposes, as well as hunting and acting as a companion.

In the past, the Cane Corso was commonly used as catch dogs. In other words, the breed was used in the hunting and capturing of large game such as boar, swine, and cattle. The dogs have also been commonly used as night watchdogs, and also as drovers by carters.

Before 1970 the breed almost succumbed to extinction. That is until Cane Corso enthusiasts began mixing appropriate mastiffs to re-create the breed. Since enthusiasts remade the breed, the current Cane Corso breed looks much different than its forefathers looked during the pre-1980s. For example, the breed’s drive has been reduced, the bodies have more bulk, and the way the skull was remade caused the breed to lose the scissor-bite that it once had. The breed has finally gained global popularity, including in the United States where it became known in 1987. However, the breed was not accepted by the United Kennel Club until 2008 when it was officially recognized as the Cane Corso Italiano. The American Kennel Club began to recognize the breed in 2010 as simply the Cane Corso.

Appearance

The Cane Corso is a large, Molosser breed of dog that appears more athletic and muscled than other mastiff breeds. The males tend to stand between 24 to 27 inches tall while weighing around 99 to 110 pounds. The females tend to be a little smaller, with a height of 23 to 25 inches and a weight of 88 to 89 pounds. Regardless the sex of the dog, the breed should exhibit characteristics of overall power that is balanced with athleticism. Even though the dogs tend to have a very tight coat, a dewlap around the neck is normal.

Cane Corso tend to be found in two predominant colors which are fawn and black, but can be brindle also; however, it is not uncommon to find color variations of both that are diluted. A little bit of white is permitted, namely on the feet, chest, nose, and chin; with occasional small spots of white found elsewhere. The coat of a Cane Corso is rather short and easy to care for. The dogs feature a docked tail that is left longer than some other breeds. In other words, a Cane Corso tail is more like that of a Weimaraner than that of a Doberman.

Cane Corso Temperament and Personality

The Cane Corso exhibits an uncanny willingness to please, and because of that they are quite simple to obedience train. These dogs tend to form a very close bond with their primary owner. Therefore, it is very important for the owner to provide early training and strong leadership skills that will help mold the breed’s very strong protective instincts. Aggression should never be encouraged in this breed because they are naturally very suspicious of strangers. In fact, the Cane Corso breed likes to maintain status quo, and due to this many Cane Corso never accept new pets, people, or activities.

For the most part the Cane Corso is a very quiet breed of dog that will only bark when he or she finds something unfamiliar or unsettling. A good Cane Corso should be indifferent when approached by strangers, but should only attack in the case of a real threat. Early socialization with both people and other animals will help control the breed’s natural protection instincts.

Health of the Breed

The Cane Corso is a healthy, robust breed for the most part; although, the breed can suffer from joint and bone problems that are common to large breed dogs.

Exercise and Other Care Requirements

The Cane Corso is a breed that can do well in apartment life if provided with the proper amounts of exercise. These dogs are also known to make great jogging companions; if you do not jog, a brisk daily walk will be sufficient.

The breed has a life expectancy of around 10 to 11 years and the dogs very easy to care for in terms of grooming. The Cane Corso breed is a light shedder, so it is best to give an occasional brushing to remove any dead hairs that are present.

Something you may not know about the breed..

Before 1988 the Cane Corso breed was basically only known to Southern Italy and was considered very rare. However, you may not notice that it has been featured in many Italian paintings throughout the years.

Cane Corso AKA Italian Mastiff