Dog breed · Working / Guardian
Cane Corso
A large Italian mastiff-type guardian, descended from Roman war dogs and later used to guard farms and drive livestock. Cane Corsos are watchful and devoted to their family but need an experienced, consistent handler.
Breed characteristics
- Group
- Working / Guardian
- Origin
- Italy
- Size
- Large
- Weight
- 40–50 kg (88–110 lb)
- Height
- 58–70 cm
- Lifespan
- 9–12 years
- Coat
- Short, stiff, dense double coat
- Temperament
- ConfidentProtectiveCalm indoorsLoyal
History
Descended from Roman canis pugnax war and hunting dogs, the breed nearly vanished in the twentieth century before Italian enthusiasts revived it from surviving farm dogs in the 1970s and 1980s.
Appearance
A muscular, square-built mastiff with a broad head, hanging jowls and a short coat in black, grey, fawn or brindle.
Exercise and activity
At least an hour of structured exercise daily, plus consistent training; without enough outlet a Cane Corso can become pushy or bored indoors.
Care and grooming
Coat care is minimal — occasional brushing and wiping of facial wrinkles. Early, extensive socialisation with people, dogs and everyday situations is essential given the breed's guarding instincts.
Health considerations
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Gastric dilatation-volvulus (bloat)
- Entropion and ectropion
- Idiopathic epilepsy
- Cardiomyopathy