Cane Corso (Italian Cane Corso, Italian Mastiff)

With strong Italian ancestry, the Cane Corso, popularly called the Italian Mastiff, is a magnificent and strong dog breed. This breed, which was initially bred to hunt big game and guard property, is renowned for its loyalty, intelligence, and protective demeanor. Its calm temperament makes it appealing to both individuals and families, and its muscular build and striking appearance make it an impressive companion.

Cane Corsos are affectionate and develop close relationships with their families despite their intimidating appearance. Being naturally energetic and loving activities that test their body and mind, they do best in homes where they can be active and involved. They can be kind and reliable, even with kids, given the right instruction and socialization.

Cane Corsos are a large working breed that need regular training, lots of exercise, and a self-assured owner. Although they make great guard dogs due to their natural protective tendencies, they also require boundary training to avoid becoming overly protective. Raising a Cane Corso that is in harmony with their needs and temperament requires understanding them.

Characteristic Description
Breed Origin Italy, originally bred for guarding and hunting
Size Large, with males weighing up to 110 pounds and females up to 99 pounds
Temperament Loyal, protective, calm but can be wary of strangers
Coat Type Short and dense, easy to maintain
Exercise Needs High; requires regular activity and mental stimulation
Lifespan 10 to 12 years

Breed profile

Photos of Cane Corso

Characteristics

Interesting facts and features

You may find it interesting to know the following if you dream of having a canine companion:

  • He is a diligent guard.
  • But not aggressive. He can show a hot temperament only in case of a real threat.
  • Strong, hardy and intelligent. But any skill needs support – regular physical and mental activity is needed.
  • Dominant, and at first will try to control you too. It is important not to succumb to his imperiousness, and show that you are the boss in the house.
  • He can behave aggressively towards other animals, smooth out the rough edges Early socialization and proper upbringing will help.
  • Outwardly it may seem that he is slow, but in fact he quickly joins in games and loves activities.
  • Treats children well, even doesn"t mind being a nanny for them, after all, the shepherd genes make themselves known.
  • Despite the brutal appearance, there lives a kind, attentive and affectionate dog inside him, who needs reciprocal love.

Cane Corso is the gladiator’s heir, deriving confidence and power from him. Though his somber demeanor can occasionally be frightening, beneath it all is a devoted and compassionate friend. He possesses bravery, courage, and a strong desire to live.

He is also incredibly intuitive, empathetic, and willing to support his owner at all times. He is the kind of dependable bodyguard you can count on. Instead of attacking an unwelcome guest right away, he will make it abundantly evident that it is best for him to leave. He reserves his outright hostility for dire circumstances in which he recognizes a genuine threat.

History of origin

Facts abound regarding the Cane Corso’s past. The Tibetan dog, an extinct species, is thought to be his oldest relative. He was well-liked because he kept his master safe from harm and rescued cattle from animal attacks.

People were hired for specialized tasks such as dog fights, military campaigns, and security. The breed is still quite well-liked today.

The earliest written records go back to the fourteenth and fifteenth centuries. It is said that the Cane Corso’s ancestors guarded cattle, engaged in dog fights, and performed other tasks.

The Cane was a "jack of all trades" at the same time because he could perform a variety of tasks. He can accomplish no less now. Due to the fact that animals fought in World War II, the gene pool was regrettably drastically diminished.

And because Giovanni made an effort to preserve it, the Cane Corso did not vanish from history. He gathered the remaining individuals from all over Italy, along with other breed enthusiasts, and proceeded to breed them. After a few years, the first standard was published and received official approval. It provided a thorough explanation, highlighting how it differed from other mastiffs.

Features of the appearance of the Cane Corso

The dog can develop into a competent guard without the need for additional training. He has this trait in him from the beginning. Without any training, he will defend your home, your family, and you.

Whether it’s a tiny bird or a cat, he gets along with other pets. The most important thing is to instill kindness in him from an early age. This dog has balance. He will remain composed if he observes that the guest is acting nicely toward you. He won’t attack unless you give the order or there is danger.

He is cautious around children and guards those who are weaker than him. Even though the baby is not a member of his family, he will not hurt him; rather, he will look after him. Youngsters adore him as well, and they are delighted to ask him to play. However, you should exercise caution because she has strength and may unintentionally push the child. Give the younger Cane Corso the order to "Sit" if you think she might hurt her; she will comply right away.

Appearance

Cane Corso has prominent muscles and an impressive size. Its body elongates simultaneously, making its length longer than its height. Girls are roughly 60–64 cm tall, while boys are slightly taller at 64–68 cm. The first weighs 40–45 kg, while the second weighs 45–50 kg. These proportions result from the dog’s breeding for hunting, guarding, and fighting.

The breed’s charisma, inherent strength, and beauty will astound you. And you sense the dependable safety of a faithful friend beside you.

General description

Mastiff is an actual athlete, and one can tell by looking at him that he is a guardian and benefactor. His strong physique, erect chest, and firm appearance all contribute to his attractive and assured appearance. Typically, it is brindle, brown, or black in color.

The character has a lot of benefits as well. Harmony, rational predictability, serenity. If the worst characteristics emerge, then upbringing rather than heredity is most likely the problem.

Broad and somewhat elongated. There are no folds on the muzzle; the skin covers the skull tightly. The muzzle is big, square-shaped, and flat.

Eyes and teeth

The oval eyes are spaced widely apart. The coat determines the color of the iris. However, darkness is better. The eyelids have patches of dark pigment.

Complete dental equation: 42. Every tooth is robust. Jaws are curved and strong. The bottom one leans forward a little. Bite: slightly underbite.

Ears, nose and lips

The ears are big, closely packed to the head, and spaced widely apart. They have short, silky fur. The cheeks are touched by the dangling ear coverings. Is dockable, resulting in triangles.

The nose is big and black, with wide nostrils. The lips are not drooping. The lower jaw is covered by the upper ones.

Body, chest and neck

The Cane Corso’s body is strong and has a withers lengthier than its height. The chest is deep and well-developed, reaching the elbow joints. The back is straight and well-muscled. It shows the ribs. The elongated croup is visible above the withers.

The neck adds elegance because it has prominent muscles and is strong without being overly bulky. the same length as the head.

Tail and limbs

The tail is long, thick at first, and positioned high. The tail does not rise or curl at the same moment.

The front pair has developed shoulder blades and is angled. Strong shoulders. Pasterns are adaptable. The paws resemble those of a cat; they are oval in shape and have gathered toes.

Powerful and convex thighs in the hind pair. Shins have strength. The angles of hock joints are prominent. The oval-shaped paws have gathered toes. runs at a broad, unrestricted trot.

Wool and color

The Cane Corso has a thick, sturdy coat that fits its body well and has a thin undercoat.

Black, red in a light or dark shade, and brindle are the traditional colors. Moreover, it can be red or gray. White spots on the nose, chest, and lower paws are permissible, per the standard.

It must have a dark mask on its muzzle, but not above the eye line, if it is red or brindle.

What can disqualify a Cane Corso for??

If a Cane Corso exhibits any of the following deficiencies, it may be excluded:

  1. Behavioral deviations.
  2. Incorrect bite.
  3. Squint.
  4. Fluffy fur.
  5. Sunken nose.
  6. Large white spots or coloring that is not acceptable by the standard.
  7. Testicles not descended into the scrotum.

The Italian Mastiff, commonly called the Cane Corso, is a strong and devoted breed distinguished by its deep familial ties and protective tendencies. This muscular and intelligent dog was originally bred in Italy to hunt and guard property. To be a successful companion and guardian, it needs to receive the right training and socialization. The Cane Corso can make an loyal, kind, and trustworthy family pet given the correct care and attention.

Character

A Cane Corso can only frighten people who are unfamiliar with it and who judge them solely on their outward appearance. However, owners only have good things to say about the breed. Everyone highlights the Mastiff’s intelligence, kindness, and loyalty.

Known as the "golden mean" among other Italian breeds. It’s not the biggest, but it’s also not the smallest. It is an athlete that, with physical exercise, always maintains excellent physical condition. When the proper method is applied, it is also intelligent and simple to train. Either you or a dog trainer—who will only be pleased with such a clever ward—can train it.

The Cane Corso, in spite of its tough exterior, has a lot of understanding and affection. He is always alert and prepared to act if necessary, but he is never angry—especially not when it comes to being scratched.

Enjoys playing and engaging in various activities, especially as a child. And as one gets older, it gets even more sensible, collected, and well-rounded. However, it is devoid of any jealousy or selfishness.

Being a good guard does not mean losing kindness toward Mastifa. The house will be safe because of his strong grip and quick reflexes. The pet is prepared for everything, for your benefit. Although Kanya won’t leap right away, a stranger close should avoid making abrupt movements because the roar will alert him. Never give anything to a stranger, even if it is your favorite food. With his alertness, it is nearly hard to strew. At times, it appears as though a Mastiff’s highly developed intuition allows it to predict a person’s actions and understand their intentions.

You should be aware that Kane-Korso will not put up with loneliness if you choose to become his master. It may miss you so much when you’re gone that it becomes ill and eventually perishes. As a result, it’s critical to remember to tell your dog how much you love it, to arrive home from work promptly, and to travel with it.

Education and training

It’s not hard to train a Cane Corso; the most important thing is to establish authority. This is a clever dog that picks things up quickly, but it’s not in a rush to mature.

It must be trained as soon as it enters your house. First, show it where it belongs and introduce it to your family and living area. Additionally, gradually acclimate it to the toilet and daily routine. You can then become proficient in basic commands like "Come to me!", "No!", "Sit!", and "Next to!"

It is not warranted to physically punish it if it refuses to perform a task or listens. Speak up firmly when you disagree with the puppy, then take it and put its back down on the ground. Hold it there for a little while until it settles down. Other than disdain, terror, and disdain, physical punishments have no effect on the Cane Corso.

Remember to socialize your child. Meet a pet in the company of other people, animals, places, sounds, and scents.

Praise the dog in the classroom for obeying commands, and treat yourself to some delectable food to lift your spirits. Declare the tasks aloud and with clarity.

Care and content

Kane-Korso has the option of residing in a rural home or an apartment. Furthermore, just because you have a yard doesn’t mean you can put the animal in a booth or, worse, on a chain. This breed has a spot in a warm house next to you because it loves freedom and, due to its short stature, will freeze in the winter.

Mastifa also requires frequent, strenuous walks. Take an hour-long walk with your pet twice a day. To create variation, place the park next to the platforms. However, remember that the dog’s musculoskeletal system is weak.

Furthermore, you shouldn’t put her through a lot of strenuous running or ask her to jump over a tall barrier if she is younger than two years old.

Cane Corsos are easy to care for because of their short hair. It is sufficient to use a rubber comb or a specialized mitten to comb it twice a week. And every day during the shedding period, which also occurs twice a year.

Bathing the animal too frequently will remove the fatty film from its skin, deprive it of protection, and cause its coat to become dull. It is sufficient to give your pet a bath once a month or to use dog dry shampoo as soon as they become extremely dirty. To avoid cracks, however, wipe the paws with a damp towel after a walk or wash them in the shower before applying an antiseptic or vegetable oil.

Examine the ears on a regular basis. To avoid damaging the canal, you can use regular cotton pads to clean the passageways; however, avoid going too deep inside. Additionally, gently grasp the ends of the cloth and wave them to let some fresh air into the ears. Get in touch with your veterinarian right away if you notice pus or any other discharge coming out of your ear.

A moist wipe and chamomile decoction can be used to treat eye irritation. Brush your teeth three or four times a week, and get pet-specific toothpaste from a pet supply store. Toys can be used as teeth cleaners.

Nutrition

You can serve your Cane Corso premium dry food or create a menu with only natural items. If option number two is chosen, then the dog’s diet should consist of lean meat, boneless sea fish, cereals (rice, buckwheat, oatmeal), low-fat kefir and cottage cheese, fruits, and vegetables. Additionally, your pet needs access to fresh water at all times.

Health

Hereditary conditions like joint dysplasia might exist. In addition, he might have hyperthyroidism, allergies, bloating, epilepsy, and a host of other conditions. But many issues can be avoided, extending your friend’s life, if you select a puppy carefully and monitor its health closely throughout its life.

How to choose a puppy?

To begin with, you should not purchase a puppy from a box at a bird market or search for one online. If you can save a lot of money, there’s a chance you’ll also take a chance. A dishonest vendor may mislead you, offer you a dog that isn’t pedigreed, or sell you a dog that has conditions you won’t be aware of beforehand.

It is appropriate to search nurseries that specialize in Cane Corso breeding for your pet.

Inquire about the parents of the puppy, its personality and habits, its appearance, and the baby’s paperwork from the breeder. Both a veterinary passport and a brand are required for the puppy.

Cost

A Cane Corso puppy in the pet class costs between 50,000 and 65,000 rubles. As a result, the breed class will cost an additional 65,000–95,000 rubles. And you’ll pay between 95,000 and 150,000 rubles for the show class.

Renowned for its power and devotion, the Cane Corso breed flourishes in a caring and disciplined setting. These dogs, when trained properly, make wonderful family companions and protectors, providing their owners with security and affection.

They are very trainable because of their intelligence and desire to please, even though they still need constant training and socialization. Whether it’s keeping watch over the house or spending time with their families, Cane Corsos find the most happiness in their work.

It’s critical to comprehend this breed’s requirement for both mental and physical stimulation if you’re thinking about getting one. The Cane Corso can be a faithful and trustworthy member of your family if you give it the proper training.

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Maxim Kovalev

Veterinarian with many years of experience. Main interest is the prevention and treatment of diseases in cats and dogs. I constantly share proven tips for caring for the health of pets to help avoid common problems and maintain their excellent health.

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