The Cane Corso derives his name from Latin phrase “Cohors” meaning guard or protector. For years, the breed has been protecting and guarding the property and cattle of its owners.
Physical Traits
Area of Origin: Italy
Used for: Guarding, hunting
Average Life Span: 10-11 years
Color: Black, slate, plum-gray, blue-gray, fawn
Coat: Short-haired, rough, shiny and dense
Average Height: 24-27 inches
Average Weight: 99-110 pounds
Group: Mastiff
History and Domestication
Originated in Italy, the Cane Corso Italiano is the original Cane Corso breed.
Its direct lineage can be traced to “Canis Pugnax” or the Roman Molossian whose lighter version is the Cane Corso used in hunting of wild animals (particularly large).
Due to this, the Cane Corso is also known as an “auxiliary warrior”.
For ages, he has been a loyal companion of the Italians employed as guard dog and watching over cattle and property of its owners.
Standard Physical Characteristics
With powerful and strong muscles, this Italian medium-sized dog has a strong built yet in an elegant manner. It expresses its strength, endurance and agility in a very distinguished manner. It has a broad and deep muzzle. It has a well-marked stop due to prominent superciliary muscles and well-developed and bulging frontal sinuses. The neck is well-arched in an oval section and is strong and muscular. The skin is very thick while the body is compact, strong and muscular.
Care, Grooming and Health
This breed doesn’t require much grooming and an occasional combing or brushing to remove the dead hair will do just fine. The Cane Corso sheds lightly. Some of them may drool or slobber in hot weathers especially after getting a drink.
This is a very athletic breed and needs a lot of exercise on daily basis. They are excellent companions for jogging and if you cannot take them for a jog then make sure you take them out for a long brisk daily walk.
The robust dog breed has typical one and joint problems as any of the giant breeds.
Living Conditions
If it gets enough exercise regularly, the Cane Corso will do okay in an apartment. They will also be happy in living outdoors provided they get adequate shelter.
Temperament
The Cane Corso is a loyal dog who is always eager and willing to please its master and can be quite around the house. This is an intelligent and highly trainable dog. This is an unparalleled watch and guard dog due to its active and even mind. They are protective, affectionate and docile with owners and this is what makes them great for families and kids. This breed has a very stable temperament making it an excellent guard dog. It does not wander away from home and stick close to their master. They are not fighting dog but as they were bred as powerful working dogs they will not back down when threatened or any other dog tries to dominate them. They need leaders who can display natural authority and can train them in calm and firm manner.
