Cane Corso (Italian Mastiff)

Cane Corso (Italian Mastiff): BREED BOX
Country:	Italy
Size:	80-140lb(36-64kg), 22-28in(56-71cm)
Temperament:	Dominant
Grooming:	Little
Recognition:	FCI, NKC, APRI, ANKC

History - An ancient Italian breed, the Cane Corso is a working dog, also known as an Italian Mastiff. The dog originated from the Mastino dogs of Tibet used to guard the ancient monasteries. Used also during ancient times, the Cane Corso was known as a fine hunting dog and protector and was considered a formidable opponent in battles.

In medieval times, the Cane Corso was used to carry valuables and run alongside his master, guarding jewels and money in case of attack. Because the Cane Corso could come up against a wild boar or a bear and not back down, he was known as a dog of great courage and strength.

When the call for hunting dogs faded, the Cane Corso found himself working on farms. The Cane Corso was instrumental in protecting all the livestock, and helping to drive the herds to market or to slaughter. Known also for his courage he was a loyal guard dog and today continues to guard country estates all over Italy.

Appearance - The Cane Corso is a medium to large sized dog, very powerful, broad and muscular. The Cane Corso is obedient when trained, and willing to please. They are possessive of their property and make excellent watchdogs, for guarding is instinctive with them. Athletic and well-muscled the Cane Corso sports a short coat, a wide muzzle and intense eyes. Eye colour will reflect coat colour - dark coated animals will have dark eyes, light coated dogs - light eyes. The double coat is short but oily, enabling it to repel water. Tails are docked and although imported dogs may have cropped ears, this is a purely cosmetic procedure which stems from days when the dogs were used in fights.

Description - In 1987 the breed was brought over to America, where it was recognized for all the fine qualities that it possessed. A true pack animal, the Cane Corso is happiest within the family. The puppies are not known to get into much mischief, and unlike other larger breed dogs, there is very little that goes wrong with this breed as it grows up. The breed standard has been upheld and the dog is loyal, steady, and stout-hearted.

They are wonderful dogs and considered to be one of the rare breeds left in the world.

Ideal Owners- The Cane Corso requires a firm handler and thus not suitable for first time dog owners.

Color Coat- Range from black, tan with a black mask, blue/grey and brindle.

Life Expectancy-10-12 years

Other Names- Italian Mastiff, Sicilian Branchiero, Sicilianos Branchiero, Cane di Macellaio, Cane Corso Italiano, Italian Corso Dog

Cane Corso Pictures

Cane Corso (Italian Mastiff) Reviews

Grooming (90%)

Exercise (87%)

Feeding (90%)

Temperament (95%)

Watchdog (100%)

Low/Unsuitable
High/Excellent

Number of reviews: 4

Spam Musubi

The best dog ever

5/12/2007

Rating: TBA (11vote/s)

Protective, obedient yet stubborn in his ways (i.e. he still barks at the same delivery truck no matter what) Does NOT like loud noises/scares (and he remembers them for a long time -- still getting over a balloon popping 3 months ago!) LONG memories on where the cats hang out where the balloons explode, (be ready, they're like bulls on a rope!) -- where the snacks are hidden! Brillaint, yet slobbery. Shed more than you might think. Very selective in who he'll growl at -- although, he'll growl /snap at ANYONE (stranger) that invades his space (car, yard, etc.) Sheer size scares the hell out of people. Fantastic guard dog.

Instinctavlly loves and protects children (owners only, may actually be a threat to other children if he perceives danger!) Absolutuely the best dog we've ever had -- I'm hooked! Loves to play. Hates being away from the "master" (his choice on whom that might be). Will whine incessantly if neglected. Does NOT appreciate deviations in anything -- IT BETTER BE THE SAME ALL THE TIME. Amazingly strong, agile, loving and did I mention... SLOBBERY!?

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1/24/2007

Rating: TBA (1vote/s)

Update on " Bear". Amazing animal. Excercise REQUIRED -- they need an outlet and need socialization -- definately needs to be a part of the family and it's very easy as they go out of their way to please. The ONLY drawback...? Slobbery jowls! Big wet globs of happiness and mess. He can't help it -- your best defense is to ALWAYS carry a towel of some sort. Also a pretty sloppy eater/drinker (see jowls comment). Beyond that, we have no hesitation endorsing this breed -- absolutley the finest animal we have ever owned. If you accept someone into your house -- he readily accepts them as well. If it's a stranger, he will let them know they aren't welcome (until you let him know otherwise).

Kids love him because he's so big and he loves them right back because he knows they're to be protected. Despite the short hair, he sheds. The coat is also a little oily. Loves to be petted and have his belly rubbed and goes out of his way to ensure that when he wants to play you know it (in a very playful manner). Having met other Corso"s we can fairly say, they are what you want them, and train them, to be. (Pretty much true with any breed).

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8/26/2006

Rating: TBA (17vote/s)

I just obtained "Bear" (so named for his uncanny resemblence to said creature) frorm the pound. Considering his size and aggrsesive look, I wasn"t sure what to expect. But, after multiple visits at the pound and no change in temperament, it was obvious that the big brute is a lover, protector and extremely loyal. A wonderful addition to the family, he is already one of us and is a head turner given his size and looks. Very obedient, but also a talker - when he wants to play he mumbles and brings his toys. A wonderful, wonderful animal.

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Aaron B.

My Corso

1/16/2006

Rating: TBA (21vote/s)

The above breed discription couldn't be more exact. Isabella is 2yrs old and the most gentle loving dog I've ever encountered. . . until she's provoked by another animal! With a simple "NO" she"ll stand down immediatly. Her level of comprehension is above that of most children. She's the perfect watch dog and lets me know when anyone nears the house. One thing to note about Corso's is that they become aggitated when their routine is broken or things are out of place (don't rearrange the furniture because they'll go nuts). Isabella is the perfect companion and I couldn't be happier with my choice of a Corso.

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Cane Corso (Italian Mastiff)

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