Cane Corso

Origins and History

The Cane Corso descends from ancient Roman molossian dogs used for guarding property, livestock, and as war dogs. The breed was refined in Southern Italy, particularly in the regions of Puglia, Basilicata, and Calabria, where it was employed as a cattle guardian, personal protector, and hunter of large game. After a decline in the early 20th century, dedicated Italian enthusiasts revived the breed in the 1970s, establishing the first stud books and gaining recognition from the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) in 2004.

General Characteristics

• Large, muscular build with a square‑proportioned frame
• Confident, loyal, and protective temperament; calm at home but alert on the perimeter
• Originally bred for guarding, livestock protection, and big‑game hunting; today also excels in protection work and conformation showing

Physical Specifications

• Height: Males 61‑68 cm (24‑27 in); Females 58‑66 cm (23‑26 in)
• Weight: Males 45‑50 kg (99‑110 lb); Females 40‑45 kg (88‑99 lb); weight proportionate to height and build

Coat and Color

• Coat: Short, dense, harsh to the touch; no undercoat; minimal shedding
• Accepted colors: solid black, solid fawn, solid gray, brindle, black‑and‑fawn, and any of these with a black mask; white markings limited to a small spot on the chest or toes (≤1 cm)

Temperament Considerations

The Cane Corso is naturally territorial and forms strong bonds with its family. Early socialization is essential to channel protective instincts positively and to prevent over‑guarding behaviors.

Training Essentials

• Socialization requirements: exposure to varied people, animals, environments from 8 weeks onward
• Exercise needs: minimum 1‑2 hours of vigorous activity daily, including controlled walks, obedience work, and safe play
• Common training challenges: managing dominance tendencies, preventing resource guarding, maintaining focus despite high confidence

Daily Grooming

• Brushing frequency: 2‑3 times per week with a firm bristle brush to remove loose hair and distribute skin oils
• Bathing requirements: as needed, typically every 6‑8 weeks; use a mild canine shampoo to avoid skin dryness
• Nail and dental care: trim nails every 3‑4 weeks; brush teeth daily or provide dental chews to reduce plaque

Show Preparation

• Pre‑show grooming timeline: bathe 7‑10 days before the show, brush daily thereafter, and perform a final hand‑strip of the coat 24 hours before the ring
• Ring presentation tips: maintain a square stance, ensure the head is held high with a relaxed muzzle, and keep the tail docked or natural according to the governing body’s rules

Common Health Issues

• Hip dysplasia – screen with OFA or Penn‑Hip at 12‑18 months
• Elbow dysplasia – radiographic evaluation recommended at 12‑18 months
• Gastric dilatation‑volvulus (bloat) – monitor feeding practices; consider prophylactic gastropexy in high‑risk lines
• Dilated cardiomyopathy – annual cardiac ultrasound and ECG for breeding stock
• Ocular conditions (entropion, progressive retinal atrophy) – eye exams and DNA testing where available

General Care

• Exercise requirements: consistent, structured activity to prevent obesity and channel energy
• Nutritional needs: high‑quality protein‑rich diet; adjust calories to maintain a lean, muscular condition
• Lifespan considerations: average 9‑11 years; regular veterinary check‑ups and preventative care extend healthspan