History of the Cane Corso Breed
While not much documentation can be found about this breed, it is believed that the
Cane Corso originated in Italy. Sources claim that the direct ancestor of the Cane Corso
was the old Roman Molossian, otherwise known as the "Canis Pugnax." It is thought
that the Cane Corso is a lighter version that was used to aid hunters and warriors in
capturing large wild animals. Popular in Italy for many years, this breed was known as a
hunting companion and a guard dog. Experts claim that the name is derived from the
Latin word "cohors," which roughly translated means "protector" or "guardian of the farm-yard."
Size and Appearance of the Cane Corso Breed
A medium to large size dog, the Cane Corso has a strong yet elegant build that features
long, powerful muscles. Of note, the muzzle of this breed is quite deep and broad. The
neck is strong, slightly-arched, and very muscular. The compact body of the Cane Corso
is also strong and very muscular. The short hair coat is dense and shiny but not smooth,
and it becomes thicker in the winter. The coat comes in a variety of colors including:
black, plumb-gray, slate, light gray, blue/gray, light fawn, deer fawn, dark fawn and
tubby, which is well-marked stripes on different shades of fawn and gray. There is a
black or grey mask on fawn and tubby dogs. White patches can also be found on the
chest, on the tips of the feet, and on the bridge of the nose.
Cane Corso Temperament
Intelligent and incredibly loyal, the Cane Corso is a quiet addition to the family, but it will
be a great protector. This breed is easily trained, and obedience training and
socialization is highly recommended from the start. This breed is wonderful with children
in the family and is generally calm and friendly with its owners. The Cane Corso has an
even, stable temperament. However, it is suspicious and sometimes aggressive towards
strangers.
Cane Corso Recommended Maintenance
Minimal grooming is required for the Cane Corso. Simply brush or comb the short coat
on a regular basis to removed dead hair. This breed is considered to be a light shedder.
While this breed can live in an apartment if enough exercise is provided, the Cane Corso is also a dog that can be happy living outside if safe shelter is available. Daily exercise is
important to this athletic dog, and it will enjoy going on a long run with you.
Cane Corso Health
Life span: 10-11 years
Major concerns: none
Minor concerns: bone and joint problems
Occasionally seen: none
Suggested tests: none
