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Cane Corso

Contemplating welcoming a Cane Corso into your home or just intrigued by this impressive breed? Known for their strength, loyalty, and distinctive look, Cane Corsi are versatile and independent dogs that can make great companions. However, early socialisation and training are crucial for the Cane Corso temperament. They are intelligent and quick learners but can be stubborn at times.

The need-to-know
  • Dog suitable for experienced owners
  • Extra training required
  • Enjoys active walks
  • Enjoys walking one to two hours a day
  • Large dog
  • Some drool
  • Requires grooming every other day
  • Don't mind
  • Chatty and vocal dog
  • Guard dog. Barks and alerts
  • May require training to live with other pets
  • May require training to live with kids

Key Facts

Lifespan: 9–12 years
Weight: 41–50kg
Height: 58–71cm
Colours: The Cane Corso colours are black, brown, chocolate, liver, fawn, grey and brindle.
Size: Large
Italian and American Kennel Club Group: Working

Ratings

Family-friendly: 4/5
Exercise needs: 5/5
Easy to train: 4/5
Tolerates being alone: 2/5
Likes other pets: 3/5
Energy level: 4/5
Grooming needs: 4/5
Shedding: 3/5

Personality

The Cane Corso temperament sets it apart from other breeds. They are loyal and protective, confident, intelligent, and highly trainable. With proper socialisation and training, they can be gentle and affectionate with their family members, including children and other pets. However, they may be reserved and cautious around strangers. It's crucial to consistently provide consistent mental and physical stimulation to ensure a well-rounded and content Cane Corso.

History and Origins

Also known as the Italian Mastiff, the Cane Corso can be traced back to ancient Rome times, with the name deriving from the Latin ‘cohort’ meaning ‘protector’ or ‘guardian’. It descended from the Roman war dogs that were used for guarding property and hunting large game. After the Roman Empire’s fall, the breed adapted to more peaceful roles, such as farm guardians, or hunters of wild boar in the Italian countryside. 

The breed saw a decline in numbers during the 20th century, but dedicated breed enthusiasts tried a revival in the 1970s, focusing on preserving their working abilities and distinctive appearance. The Cane Corso gained recognition from the Italian Kennel Club in 1994 and the American Kennel Club in 2010, solidifying their status as a versatile and loyal companion worldwide.
 

If you're considering choosing or adopting this breed, it's important to research and understand the breed's specific needs and requirements. Whether it's a Cane Corso puppy or adult dog, they need regular exercise, proper nutrition, and regular veterinary check-ups. If you're considering a Cane Corso for adoption or rehoming, you can research nearby shelters or see if they have any available on the Wamiz Rescue Centre website.

Regular exercise, mental stimulation, and proper care and nutrition are essential for maintaining the health and well-being of a Cane Corso puppy or adult dog. This breed needs at least one to two hours of exercise each day, including a combination of walks, runs, and playtime.

Caring for this dog breed involves understanding their exercise needs and spatial requirements. These dogs are not suited for apartment living or confined spaces. They thrive in homes with ample indoor and outdoor space. Ideally, they should have access to a securely fenced garden or yard where they can run and play freely.

Providing the right nutrition for your Cane Corso is essential for their overall health and well-being. You should consider factors such as their age, weight, activity level, and overall health when determining the correct amount of food for them. Regular monitoring of your dog's weight and overall health is necessary to ensure they are receiving the proper nutrition they need to thrive.

As they have a short and dense coat, Cane Corso dogs require regular grooming to keep them in good condition. Regular brushing and bathing, along with ear care and nail trimming, are part of the grooming routine for this breed. 

They would also need regular brushing of their teeth – ideally a few times a week – in order to help prevent dental issues and maintain overall oral health. Also it would be good to regularly check their skin regularly for any signs of irritation, allergies, or parasites.
 

Training a Cane Corso requires consistency and structure from an early age. With the right approach, patience, and positive reinforcement, you can successfully train your dog to be a well-behaved and obedient companion. Socialisation is an essential aspect of training a Cane Corso. Introduce your dog to various people, animals, and environments to ensure they become well-adjusted and sociable.

Known for their loyalty, intelligence, and protective nature, the Cane Corso dog breed can be integrated as a family dog. Their calm and gentle temperament makes them potentially suitable for families with children; although it is not the ideal breed for young children or the elderly. It is also not well suited for multiple dog households. 

With their sturdy build and protective nature, they can provide an extra layer of security for your home and loved ones. Early obedience training, positive reinforcement, and regular exercise are essential for their mental and physical well-being.
 

Cane Corsi can be dangerous if not properly trained and socialised. Without proper training, they can show aggressive behaviour towards strangers and perceived threats. 

Cane Corsi generally stop growing in height and length by 18 – 24 months of age. However, they could continue to gain muscle mass until they are about 3 years old. 

Cane Corsi shed moderately throughout the year, with heavier shedding occurring during seasonal changes. As a result, they only need regular brushing and bathing.

Did You Know?

• Actor Vin Diesel and comedian Tracy Morgan have both owned Cane Corso dogs.

• Cane Corso dogs are known for their unique vocalisations, which include a variety of grumbles, groans, and other sounds, often used to communicate with their owners. • One of the most famous Cane Corso is Brutus, owned by NBA star LeBron James, who has shared photos and videos of the impressive and beloved pet on social media, helping to popularise the breed.

• The plural of the Cane Corso dog breed is actually Cane Corsi, and not Cane Corsos, since the name originated from Latin.

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