A Cane Corso sits in an open field.

Cane Corso

Height
23 - 27.5"
Weight
88 to 110 lbs
Type
Working
Life Expectancy
10 - 12 years
Area of Origin
Italy
The Cane Corso is a majestic, large-breed dog from Italy. They are known for their protective qualities, so much so that their name translates to "bodyguard dog" in Latin. This breed is very loyal to their owners, intelligent, confident, and easily trained.
Energy Level
4
Playfulness
2
Friendliness to dogs
3
Friendliness to strangers
2
exercise requirements
5
affection level
4
friendliness to other pets
3
watchfulness
3
Grooming Requirements
2
Vocality
3

Where Are Cane Corso From?

The Cane Corso is an ancient breed that can be traced back to the Molossus dog of the Romans, which were bred for size and ferocity. The Neapolitan Mastiff is another Molossus dog, but of the two breeds, the Cane Corso is more agile and quick.

It can also be argued that the Cane Corso breed came from an old Sicilian herding dog known as the Cane di Macellaio. They were used primarily as warriors and hunters during the Middle Ages. When they were not hunting, they were driving cattle and other animals to market. The breed was not present in the US until 1987, when they made their first appearance in New Jersey. They are still rather uncommon outside of Italy.

Caring for a Cane Corso

What Kind of Diet Does a Cane Corso Need?

What Kind of Diet Does a Cane Corso Need?

The Cane Corso requires a high-quality diet and, due to their large size, they need a larger caloric intake than most dogs. They are prone to becoming overweight, however, so portion size should be considered.

How Often Should You Brush a Cane Corso?

How Often Should You Brush a Cane Corso?

Cane Corso have a shedding coat and require daily brushing, especially during shedding season.

Are Cane Corso Healthy Dogs?

Are Cane Corso Healthy Dogs?

The Cane Corso is a generally healthy breed, but they are prone to diseases like gastric dilatation volvulus (bloat) due to their deep chest, as well as hip dysplasia.

Cane Corso are predisposed to: demodicosis, entropion, epilepsy, GDV, cherry eye, and hip dysplasia.

Can You Train a Cane Corso?

Can You Train a Cane Corso?

The Cane Corso needs to be socialized early in life to prevent potential behavioral problems and aggression. They may become dominant and overly protective if not properly socialized and trained. They are, however, very open to training and willing to learn. Be consistent and proactive with training, and your Corso will develop into a great protector for the family.

How Much Exercise Does a Cane Corso Need?

How Much Exercise Does a Cane Corso Need?

Cane Corsos need a large amount of room and exercise, and they don’t do well in small, apartment settings. If not properly stimulated, behavioral problems may arise. Give your Corso a job to do and they will be content. The breed typically excels at protection sports, tracking, and dock diving.

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Are You Ready to Adopt a Cane Corso?

To adopt a Cane Corso, start by making sure a dog of this size and demeanor will fit your lifestyle. Use our pet adoption checklist to walk through each step in the adoption process. Complete the necessary adoption applications and be prepared for interviews or home visits. Spend time with potential dogs to find a good match. Finally, prepare your home for the new pet, ensuring it's safe and welcoming.

Pet Insurance Options for Cane Corso Dogs

Pet insurance for a Cane Corso may help cover costs for conditions like hip dysplasia and bloat. Consider a policy that includes hereditary and congenital conditions, flexible coverage options, and reasonable premiums.

Use our insurance aggregator tool to compare providers and find the best plan for your dog's unique needs.

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What Are the Physical Characteristics of a Cane Corso?

What Does a Cane Corso Look Like?
Cane Corso range from medium to large in size, and are sturdy, strong dogs. The breed’s expression is alert and responsive. Desired height is 23 – 27.5 inches at the shoulders and the desired weight is anywhere from 88 to 110 pounds, depending on the height and the sex of the dog.
How Big Is a Cane Corso's Head?
The head is large, encompassing a large portion of the Corso’s overall height. Eyes are medium in size, almond shaped, and not bulging. Dogs with black muzzles have dark brown eyes, while dogs with grey muzzles have lighter colored eyes. The ears can be cropped. If uncropped, they are triangular and medium sized. The nose has the same pigment color as the body of the dog. The muzzle is very broad and deep, and as wide as it is long.
Are Cane Corso Muscular?
The body of a Cane Corso is very large boned, muscular, and athletic. The chest is broad and strong.
Do Cane Corsi Have Tails?
The tail is docked at the fourth vertebrae and thick at the base, but does not taper much to the tip. It is usually carried low when not in action.
Cane Corso Front Legs
The front legs are taut and straight-forward. The shoulders are very muscular. Dewclaws may or may not be removed.
What Type of Coat Does a Cane Corso Have?
The Cane Corso has a shiny, short, dense coat. The undercoat is lighter, but becomes dense in cold weather. Black, multiple shades of gray and fawn, brindle, and red are acceptable colors. Fawn and red-colored dogs typically have a black or gray mask. A white patch on either the chest, throat, chin, back of legs, or the toes is occasionally present as well.
Cane Corso Back Legs
The thighs are muscular and legs are straight and rigid. Rear dewclaws should be removed.
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Cane Corso Facts

Before 1987, the Cane Corso was so rare that it was only known in its native southern Italy.
Yellow "bird of prey" eyes or blue eyes are a disqualification of the breed standard.
Cane Corso were frequently the subject of early 19th century paintings by Bartolomeo Pinelli.
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Other Breeds to Explore

Neapolitan Mastiff
Rottweiler
Boxer
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References

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