There is plenty of historical evidence that the Cane Corso is descended from the old Roman war dogs, Canis Pugnax. Throughout the history, these dogs were valued by hunters and farmers for their legendary courage, immense power, speed, loyalty and willingness to work. Through the Middle Ages, these dogs were known as fearless hunters and bull baiters. Today, the Cane Corso is still used on Italian farms for protecting the livestock from wild boar and guarding sheep. The breed saw good and bad periods in its history and was on the verge of extinction. Thanks to efforts of a few dedicated Cane Corso fanciers, the breed was rescued. The first breed standard was drafted by Dr Giovanni Ventura in 1980s and in 1994 the Cane Corso breed was officially recognized. Since then its popularity as a versatile working and companion dog has grown at an amazing rate.
While the Cane Corso is perceived by some to be a dangerous dog, the reputation is undeserved. Aloof with strangers and fearless family protector, Cane Corso has a balanced temperament and is very dependable around children of his family.
Photo courtesy of canecorso-lanaudiere.com
• Cane Corso Calendars & Accessories •
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Cane Corso Breed Outline
| FCI Official Name: | Cane Corso Italiano |
| Other Names: | Cane Corso Italiano (Italy), Italian Mastiff, Sicilian Branchiero |
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Country of Origin: | Italy |
| FCI Classification: |
Molosside breeds, Mastiff type. Without working trial. |
| Utilization: |
Guard-, protection-, police- and tracking dog |
| AKC Classification: | FSS |
| Personality: | Fearless, protective, calm, loyal and dependable. |
| Size Categody: | Medium/Large |
| Height: | 23.5-26.5 inches at shoulders |
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Colors: | Black, lead-grey, slate-grey, light grey, light fawn; stag red and dark fawn; brindle (stripes on different shades of fawn or grey); in fawn colored and brindle dogs the black or grey mask on the muzzle; a small white patch on the chest, on the tips of the feet and on the bridge of the nose is acceptable. |
| Average Litter Size: | 6 |
| Life Span: | 9-12 years |
| Grooming Requirements: |
The Cane Corso's short, dense coat needs minimal care. |
| Shedding: | Little |
| Social skills: | The Cane Corso will live in peace with other dogs and household animals. |
| Suitability for Children: | Cane Corsos are usually gentle with children. But considering their size, small children should never be left unsupervised around these big dogs. Puppies need to be well socialized with children from the early puppyhood. |
| Exercise Needs: | The Canes need regular exercise to maintain their powerful muscles. They love long walks and are perfect jogging companions. A fenced-in yard is a must. |
| Train Ability: | The Cane Corso is intelligent, agile and highly responsive to training. |
| Health & Behavior Issues: | The Cane Corso is a very healthy breed. The breeding stock must be screened for hip dysplasia. |
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