The Cane Corso is an ancient breed, direct descendant of the Roman Canis Pugnax, Roman War Dog of the first century. It was used in the battlefields as an auxiliary warrior and guardian. In the arenas, the Cane Corso was used to fight lions, bears, bulls, other wild animals and even gladiators. As times changed, so did the duties of the Cane Corso.
Often weighing more then 100 pounds, with a large head and alert expression, and muscular fame, Cane Corsos are at a glance intimidating creatures. Bred as guard dogs for centuries, their imposing appearance is their first line of defense against intruders. As one writer put it, “An understated air of cool competence, the kind of demeanor yo’d expect from a professional bodyguard, is the breed’s trademark” and complete the picture of a dog not to be trifled with.
The Cane Corso dog is a very versatile utility dog. They are intelligent, athletic, agile and possesses great stamina. It is famous for it’s hunting abilities in which it excelled in wild boar, bear, wolf, badger and porcupine. The Cane Corso has been a farm dog for centuries, bred for their working abilities. They were widely used to guard property and protect cattle against wolves and cattle thieves. They were also used by butchers to control and move cattle before slaughter. The Cane Corso was often used during travel as well. He ran beside the cart or stagecoach and protected the driver, passengers and goods against highwaymen.
During W.W.I and W.W.II hunting activities drastically decreased, agriculture modernized and the need for the breed decreased, pushing the Cane Corso to near extinction. In Southern Italy, agricultural life was able to endure permitting recovery of the breed. Cane Corsos are still being used on farms today and make exceptional guard dogs.
Cane Corsos are a medium-large molossoid, muscular, compact with no unnecessary weight. They are no larger than allowing it to chase at high speeds while still having the power to hold the game. They move with ease. The Cane Corso is a dominant dog with a protective nature, and instinctually aloof, yet easily trained, obedient and devoted to family.
A Cane Corso may sound like everything you ever wanted in a dog however, they are not for everyone.
Things to Know
- The Corso needs room to play and a proper kennel to be secure in. They require a secure, 6 foot high, heavy duty fenced in area that is NOT accessible by anyone but the family. They are NEVER to be left unsupervised outside of their containment area. This protects the dog from accidental contact with those that are not familiar w/ the breed and avoids unpleasant incidences. They are not an apartment dog. Leaving a Corso crated in the house all day, creates health and temperament problems and should not be done. However, the Corso puppy should be crate trained.
- The Corso requires a respectable amount of socialization and training. Potential owners must be able and dedicated to take the pup out with them to training and socialization.
- The Corso is an up-close and personal type of dog. He bonds very closely with his family.
- Anyone considering a Corso must make sure they are ready to make a lifelong commitment to the dog. The Corso is extremely devoted to its family/owner. Color is a factor to many new buyers but when determining which Corso is best for you, A corso puppy needs to be chosen based on correct temperament for you, health and correct type.
- If there are children in the home, kids and dogs should not ever be left unattended. Proper boundaries are to be taught to both children and puppy. Owner must be willing to spend the time and be consistent to ensure the relationship between puppy and children is correct. Teach your children that your Corso needs to be respected and always supervise your playtime with children. The Corso can play rough, but they are powerful and strong and sometimes they don’t know their own strength. So use common sense.
- Puppy kindergarten and basic Obedience class is highly recommended. The Corso is a large breed and needs to be under control at all times. Owner needs to be prepared to set aside time to personally take the puppy to class for socialization and training.
- All Corsos possess different personalities like humans, so understand if your Corso is hyper or laid back that is normal progression and adjustment to their unique disposition is part of owning this amazing breed.
- Love and socialize your Corso! Show him or her quality time and have fun! A powerful breed the Corso is, however they are a companion breed and spending time with their family is what they desire more than anything.
- Any traits or behavioral issues you notice at an early age, contact your breeder or trainer and address them swiftly with correction. Don’t allow your Corso to become a bad apple by developing bad habits.
- Keep in mind your Corso will become protective over his property and family. Encourage protective instincts and discourage any prideful behavior by your Corso. Like barking at family members, friends that are regular visitors. Proper training can help in this area, and correction from the owner can contribute to a wonder balanced tempered family companion.
