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Cane Corso Information
“Corsos are not for everyone, but with proper training and socialization, they make excellent family companions.”
What is a Cane Corso?
 The Cane Corso [cah-nee corso], (also called the Italian Mastiff, though not to be confused with the Neapolitan Mastiff) Originated in Italy, and has it’s origins deep into history. It is a descendent of the great Roman Molossian, and was used as a war dog, gladiator, hunter, herding dog, and protector of the farm. Because of its diverse history, Corsos excel in many different areas, with proper training. These include: herding, therapy work, search and rescue, protection, and of course the family companion.
Although they are dominant dogs that require firm, early training and socialization, they are sensitive and strive for the approval and love of their masters. (The worst punishment that our dogs could imagine is to know, without a doubt, that we are mad at them- they sulk, mope and try anything to get things to be OK again.) They are best suited to a home where they are part of the family. A Corso does not make a good ‘yard dog’ where it is left out of family activities, or left alone for long periods of time. Because of their natural intelligence and need for affection, they excel in an environment where they either have a ‘job’ or are involved in the activities of their family and friends.
In physical appearance, they are imposing, powerful, and majestic. They literally stop traffic and turn heads wherever they go. They are one of the smaller mastiff breeds, and do not typically have the constant problem of drooling that plagues most other mastiff breeds. Although unmistakably mastiff in origin, they have less loose skin and are quicker and more athletic. Weights vary from 90 to 140 lbs, with height proportionate. Ears may be cropped or natural, but the tail is always docked.
 The temperament of the Cane Corso is loving, gentle, and playful with it’s family. They get along well with other dogs and animals with proper socialization at a young age. With other dogs, they can be dominant, but are not typically aggressive. Most Cane Corso owners will tell you that their dogs will not start a fight, but however, they will not back down from one either. They have an inherent ‘sense’ about people and are notoriously gentle with children. Corsos are naturally suspicious of strangers, and are ‘natural’ guardians- even without specific protection training, a Corso will take upon himself the job of protecting his family, friends, and property. (This is a reason that firm training and socialization are necessary.) A well- adjusted Corso can easily tell the difference between a guest and a threatening intruder.
Doc takes the habit of saying ‘Hi’ to guests (although he warms up slower to some than others) by giving them a good look-over, then leaning on them to get his back scratched. We joke that he knows the motorcycles around the property very well- there was a particular time when a friend stopped by, petted all the dogs and started chatting, and took interest in a particular dirt bike and went over to get a closer look. Doc got up from what he was doing, went over and got between him and the bike and gave him a quick growl- he stopped, walked back over to us and started laughing “I guess he knows that isn’t my bike” as soon as took a few steps back, Doc wagged his tail and went right over and leaned on him again. (I’ll stress that this wasn’t a ‘vicious’ growl- it was more of an ahem! To point something out.) Ebony on the other hand, loves everybody and would sit to be petted for hours.
Are you the right person for a Cane Corso?
1. You are looking for a dog that will be part of your family, and will be involved in all or most of your activities, i.e. Hiking, camping, little league, walks, etc.
2. You are familiar with dominant dog breeds, as well as the training that they require. (by ‘dominant breeds’ I am referring to breeds such as Rotties, Bulldogs, Staffordshire Terriers, Akitas, Chows, Shar-Pie’s, Doberman’s, German Shepherds, Giant Schnauzers, etc.) A Lab, Giant Poodle, or Golden Retriever is NOT typically categorized here.
3. You are prepared to make a commitment to thoroughly socialize your puppy, starting at a very young age and continuing through adulthood, as well as being a ‘good steward’ for the breed.
4. You are looking for a working breed that will excel in many areas, that will have intelligence, a solid working drive, and will strive to please you.
5. You are looking for a dog that will be gentle and playful with your family and friends, and also be an imposing protector if the situation should ever arise.
6. You like Rottwielers, Boxers, and English Mastiffs, but are looking for something a little more more… unique, exotic, and
Signs that you may want to seriously rethink the Corso as a breed choice:
You work long hours and would not be able to spend very much time with the dog.
2. You want a ‘push- button’ dog that you won’t need to spend a lot of time training.
3. You have never owned a large breed dog.
4. You consider yourself a timid person, and have trouble expressing yourself, giving directions, or being firm when asking for something.
5. You want a dog that will look cool on a logging chain in your front yard, or that can beat up your neighbor’s Rottwieler.
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