The Cane Corso, or Italian Mastiff, is a smart, affectionate, and assertive breed known for its large stature and protective nature. A Cane Corso can weigh over 100 pounds and typically stands 28 inches tall at the shoulders. Cane Corsi (the proper plural of Cane Corso) have large heads, expressive faces, and a muscular appearance that can be quite intimidating. Show
The Cane Corso is a working breed. Historically, Corsi served as watchdogs, farmhands, and even canine soldiers. The breed’s ancestry dates to ancient Rome, but it wasn’t popular in the United States until the 1980s. The name can be translated from the Latin as “bodyguard dog” or “guard dog of the courtyard.” It’s an apt description, since the Cane Corso strikes a perfect balance between family companion and protector. Caring for a Cane CorsoCane Corso dogs are intelligent, eager to please, versatile, and intensely loyal to their humans, but they can also be assertive and willful. As with other large guardian dogs, it’s important to provide early socialization with people and other dogs. Once Corsi are properly socialized, they will bond closely with families. Like most large dogs, they require a good amount of exercise to keep up with their muscular shape and medium energy needs. The Cane Corso coat comes in black, black brindle, chestnut brindle, fawn, gray, gray brindle, and red. They may also have a black or gray mask on their face. The coat is smooth and short, requiring minimal grooming. Their ears are often cropped and tails often docked, but that is a mostly cosmetic procedure and is not necessary. The Cane Corso lifespan is approximately 9-12 years, average for a large-breed dog. They can adapt to extreme temperatures but typically do better in warmer climates. Cane Corso Health IssuesCane Corsi are generally healthy, as most breeders screen for common health conditions. However, owners should be aware of the following possible health issues. ObesityMaintaining a lean body weight is ideal for all dogs, but especially for large or giant breeds, as obesity can cause stress on the body and lead to other health issues. Your Cane Corso will benefit from regular exercise and being on a well-balanced AAFCO-approved diet to avoid obesity. Always work with your veterinarian to determine the best nutrition plan depending on your dog’s life stage. Hip DysplasiaHip dysplasia is a degenerative joint disease that affects the hind limbs. Bone and joint problems are a common cause of pain in large- and giant-breed dogs. Clinical signs include limping, decreased range of motion, and other signs of pain—especially later in life, as arthritis sets in. Treatment for degenerative joint diseases can include:
Testing such as the PennHIP can predict your dog’s lifetime risk of hip dysplasia. Idiopathic EpilepsyEpilepsy is a seizure disorder, and idiopathic refers to a condition that arises spontaneously, when there is no known cause. These seizures usually develop in dogs around 3 years of age; while there is no cure, the seizures can be managed with medication. Dogs with idiopathic epilepsy can live long, productive, happy lives. Demodectic MangeDemodectic mange is a skin condition in dogs that can come from a genetic predisposition. It is mostly transmitted from mother to puppy during nursing. Puppies have an immature immune system, which can leave them susceptible to demodex mites. The skin condition is not contagious to other dogs if they have a normal immune system. Clinical signs of demodectic mange include:
While common around the face and head in puppies, the lesions can develop anywhere on the body. Not all cases of demodex require treatment; very small lesions can resolve on their own in 1-2 months. Larger skin lesions or those distributed all over the body can be treated with topical and/or oral medications. Affected dogs should not be bred. Eyelid Abnormalities
These conditions can cause chronic irritation and secondary conjunctivitis, a bacterial infection of the eye. Surgery is the only way to correct these eyelid issues, and eye medications will likely be part of the recovery process. Bloat and GDV (Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus)Large, deep-chested dog breeds are susceptible to this life-threatening stomach condition. It can occur suddenly when the stomach enlarges with gas (bloat) and then twists on itself (GDV). If you notice your dog’s stomach area enlarge quickly, or your dog appears to have abdominal pain (whining with or without touching belly, stretching with front legs down/back legs up, reluctance to walk, not eating), contact an emergency veterinarian immediately. While bloat can sometimes be treated with aggressive medical intervention, a GDV requires emergency corrective surgery to save the dog’s life. To limit the risk of GDV, Cane Corsi should not be given any exercise until 30 minutes to one hour after eating. Another way to keep your Cane Corso from developing a life-threatening GDV is gastropexy. This surgery is most successful when done at the same time the dog is spayed/neutered as a young puppy. A gastropexy permanently attaches the stomach to the inside body wall. This fixation of the stomach keeps it from being able to twist upon itself. What to Feed a Cane CorsoThe Cane Corso is considered an all-purpose working dog. Corsi require a high-quality, age-appropriate diet to meet their nutritional needs. These diets are usually labeled puppy, adult, or senior. Any dog food that is labeled for “all life stages” should only be used for puppies, as these are not usually formulated for older dogs. It is highly recommended that all dogs consume a diet approved by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), which ensures that the ingredients meet established standards. Basic vitamin and mineral supplements are not needed if your dog’s food is AAFCO-approved. Avoid offering your pet table food or animal bones, as this may cause stomach upset, vomiting, diarrhea, and lack of appetite. High-fat foods can cause pancreatitis. How Much Should You Feed a Cane Corso?In general, puppies should be fed three to four times per day, and adult dogs should be fed twice a day. How much you feed is determined by the specific food. Ask your veterinarian, follow the package instructions, or contact the dog food manufacturer, as AAFCO-approved diets have veterinary nutritionists who help determine these requirements. Nutritional Tips for Cane Corso DogsDogs that are on a well-balanced, AAFCO-approved diet do not need additional vitamin and mineral supplements to maintain a healthy lifestyle. However, the following supplements may be helpful for joint health, digestive health, and providing a well-rounded health plan. Joint supplements Glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM supplements (such as Dasuquin with MSM) are great for promoting joint health. MSM has all-natural anti-inflammatory properties. Omega-3 fatty acids (high-quality fish oil) are thought to have anti-inflammatory properties as well when given at appropriate doses. Research shows that reducing inflammation helps to control pain associated with osteoarthritis, which is a common problem in dogs with joint issues. Probiotics Probiotics are great for promoting gut health. Some come with added benefits, such as Calming Care, which helps ease anxiety, and Zesty Paws, which contains pumpkin, adding fiber to the diet. Behavior and Training Tips for a Cane CorsoCane Corso Personality and TemperamentThe Cane Corso is a dominant breed and makes an excellent watchdog. These dogs are also great companions and enjoy having a family with children to watch over. However, their instinct to take charge can be an issue for pet parents who cannot establish their role as the pack leader and control this behavior. Cane Corsi must be trained and socialized starting at a very young age, to ensure that their dominance will not be misguided into aggression toward other pets and people. Training can start as young as 8 weeks old. This breed might be best suited to a family with older children due to its larger size. The Cane Corso is reserved and confident, territorial, and extremely attentive to its surroundings. It tends to be a quiet breed, indifferent to the approach of unfamiliar people and pets unless a real danger is apparent. Cane Corso BehaviorWith a deep ancestry as working dogs, Cane Corso dogs can be sensitive and serious. Their behavior largely depends on the care and training they receive when they are young. These dogs are assertive and confident. They can be gentle and affectionate in the right hands, but if the pet parent is inexperienced or unkind, the Cane Corso can become aggressive. Make sure to supervise your Cane Corso during interactions with children or other pets, and always teach children how to properly interact with dogs. Corsi like to have their family close by, ideally in the same room. Consider placing dog beds in the rooms where you spend the most time. Cane Corso TrainingThis intelligent working breed thrives on activity and having a job to do. Like most large dog breeds, the Cane Corso benefits from a fenced-in yard and frequent walks. These dogs enjoy agility training, skills training, dock diving, and other activities that keep their mind enriched. If they are not exercised and stimulated often, they may get themselves into trouble with bad behaviors such as digging, pawing, and jumping. The Cane Corso is not as toy-oriented as many other breeds, and most are not interested in retrieving. Fun Activities for a Cane Corso
Cane Corso Grooming GuideThe Cane Corso has a smooth, short, double-layered coat that does not require much maintenance. The undercoat varies in length depending on the climate in which the dog lives. While Corsi do shed, it is minimal compared to other long-haired dogs. They shed throughout the year, especially during spring. Their nails should be trimmed regularly, as excessively long nails can be painful and cause problems with walking and running. Skin CareThe Cane Corso is a low-maintenance breed when it comes to skin care. Corsi only need to be bathed a few times a year, usually during high shedding periods in the spring. Bathing often strips the coat of the natural oils that protect the skin and the undercoat. Coat CareWeekly brushing—daily during shedding season—with a medium-bristle brush, a rubber grooming mitt or tool, or a hound glove will remove dead hair before it can fall onto the furniture, and it helps remove dirt and promotes new hair growth as well. Eye CareEyes should be clear, with no redness or discharge. Ensure that the eyelids and eyelashes are not rubbing on the eye or drooping outward, which would indicate a need for surgical correction. Using a mild eye-cleaning wipe can help prevent tear staining. Ear CareCheck ears weekly for redness or a bad odor, which can indicate an infection. Regularly cleaning a dog’s ears, if the dog is not having any issues, can be more harmful than helpful. Adding excessive moisture to a dog’s ear with frequent bathing, swimming, or overuse of ear-cleansing liquid may promote bacterial growth in the ears, causing an ear infection. Considerations for Pet ParentsBefore bringing a Cane Corso into your home and family, consider whether you can put the time and effort into training, socializing, and exercising your new pet. Since these are large dogs, having a big space, ideally with a large yard, would be best. A tall, sturdy fence in the backyard is recommended. A Cane Corso is not a good dog breed for those who live in apartments. However, for those who like the idea of a very large dog that is protective and athletic, the Cane Corso is a breed to consider. Cane Corso FAQsIs a Cane Corso a good family dog? With proper socialization, Cane Corsi can be good family dogs, as they are bred to be protective. The Cane Corso is best suited to a family with older children, due to its large size and the nature of its behavior. Make sure to supervise your Cane Corso during any interactions with children or other pets, and teach children how to properly interact with dogs. Are Cane Corsi smart dogs? The Cane Corso is extremely intelligent and needs consistent lifelong training from an owner who will be clear about expectations. If they aren’t given direction, they will act on instinct, which is to treat anything outside of their family unit and property as a potential threat. How much does a Cane Corso cost? The average cost of purchasing a quality Cane Corso puppy from a reputable breeder is about $1,500-$2,500. However, for a Cane Corso puppy with top breed lines and a superior pedigree, the cost may be $3,000-$5,500. Is the Cane Corso a Pit Bull? What is the origin of the Cane Corso breed? Italy is the birthplace of two mastiff-type breeds, the Neapolitan Mastiff and the Cane Corso. These are both descendants of an ancient Roman war dog, the canis pugnaces. What is special about Cane Corso?Described by breed enthusiasts as affectionate, intelligent, and majestic, the Cane Corso is a member of the mastiff breed and shares many of their attributes. They are high energy, love the outdoors, are agile and speedy, and have a sense of adventure.
Are Cane Corsos a good family dog?With proper socialization, Cane Corsi can be good family dogs, as they are bred to be protective. The Cane Corso is best suited to a family with older children, due to its large size and the nature of its behavior.
What is the personality of a Cane Corso?Smart, trainable, and of noble bearing, the assertive and confident Cane Corso is a peerless protector. The Corso's lineage goes back to ancient Roman times, and the breed's name roughly translates from the Latin as 'bodyguard dog.'
Why are Cane Corsos so popular?They are large, muscular and big-boned. Many admirers of the breed, including the AKC, refer to them as “majestic.” They are often distinguished by the presence they command. Having descended from the Roman canis pugnaces, it's no wonder that Cane Corsos are smart, clever, natural-born hunters.
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What are Cane Corsos known for?
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