Cane Corso

Descended from Roman Molosser-type dogs, the Cane Corso developed across rural Italy as a multipurpose guardian, drover, boar hunter, and farm helper. After declining post–World War II, enthusiasts revived the breed in the late 20th century, preserving its steady nerve, athletic frame, and family devotion. Today the Corso is recognized internationally (FCI, CKC/AKC) and is valued as a modern estate guardian and disciplined sport partner when responsibly bred and trained.

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A large, muscular, agile Molosser—more athletic than many mastiffs.

• Weight: ~90–110+ lb (41–50+ kg) males; ~80–100 lb (36–45 kg) females
• Height: Males 25–27.5 in (64–70 cm); females 23.5–26 in (60–66 cm)
• Coat Type: Short, dense, weather-resistant single coat
• Coat Colors: Black, fawn, red, gray; brindle patterns; permissible small white on chest/feet; black or gray mask on fawn/red
• Distinctive Physical Traits: Broad head with pronounced stop, strong square muzzle, deep chest, powerful neck and hindquarters, tight catlike feet, thick tapering tail (natural); confident, ground-covering trot

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Low coat maintenance; steady skin/ear care and seasonal de-shedding.

• Brushing: 1–2×/week (rubber curry/bristle brush); daily during seasonal shed
• Bathing: Every 6–8 weeks or as needed; dry thoroughly (neck/chest)
• Face/Drool: Wipe lips/chin after meals/water; keep skin folds dry
• Ears/Teeth/Nails: Clean ears weekly; brush teeth 2–3×/week; trim nails every 2–4 weeks
• Shedding: Low to moderate; heavier in spring/fall
• Note (Canada): Ear cropping/tail docking are restricted or discouraged in many provinces—confirm local veterinary policies before purchase

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A working athlete that needs consistent, joint-friendly outlets.

• Daily Exercise: 60–90 minutes (split sessions)
• Great Activities: Power walks, hiking on soft surfaces, obedience/rally, scent/nose work, protection-sport foundations with qualified trainers, structured tug/fetch with rules
• Puppies/Adolescents: Protect growing joints—avoid repetitive jumping, forced runs, and stairs; emphasize engagement and manners

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Strong, smart, and sensitive—clarity and consistency matter.

• Approach: Positive reinforcement with clear boundaries; short, purposeful sessions
• Focus Areas: Leash neutrality, impulse control (doors/guests/food), rock-solid recall, calm place/settle, polite greetings
• Socialization: Early, broad, and controlled exposure to people, dogs, surfaces, sounds; prioritize neutrality over forced friendliness
• Cooperative Care: Teach muzzle acceptance, handling for vet/grooming, nail work, and mouth checks

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Grow slow; keep lean to protect joints and heart.

• Food Type: Large/giant-breed formula or balanced fresh diet tailored to big athletes
• Daily Quantity: ~3.5–6.5 cups/day total (varies by dog/food/workload), split into two meals
• Puppies: Giant-breed puppy nutrition with controlled calcium/phosphorus for steady growth
• Add-Ons: Omega-3s (EPA/DHA) for joints/skin; joint supplements (green-lipped mussel/glucosamine) as advised
• Bloat Safety: Avoid heavy exercise 60–90 min before/after meals; use slow feeders; discuss prophylactic gastropexy (GDV) with your vet

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Prioritize temperament, health screens, and lifetime support.

• Breeders: Choose CKC-affiliated preservation breeders providing orthopedic/eye/heart results, stable guardian temperaments, and written take-back
• Adoption: Mastiff/guardian rescues; Cane Corso clubs sometimes rehome adults—ask for full behavior/health history
• Canadian Resources: CKC breeder directory; Cane Corso breed clubs (Canada/US); provincial working/obedience and scent-work clubs (ON/BC/QC/AB) for training and community; confirm local bylaws/insurance for guardian breeds

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A robust guardian with size- and breed-linked risks—health testing is essential.

• Orthopedic: Hip and elbow dysplasia, cruciate ligament tears
• Eyes/Skin: Entropion/ectropion, cherry eye, hot spots/allergies if damp undercoat
• Cardiac: Aortic/subaortic stenosis and other cardiomyopathies in some lines—cardiac screening recommended
• Endocrine/Immune: Hypothyroidism (some), demodicosis susceptibility reported in some mastiff types
• GI: Gastric dilatation–volvulus (bloat/GDV) risk due to deep chest
• Behavioral: Guardian drives; dog-selectivity possible—requires management/training
• Life Expectancy: 9–12 years
• Recommended Testing (breeders): Hips/elbows (OFA/FCI), cardiac evaluation (ideally echocardiogram), CAER eye exam; disclose thyroid and bloat history; temperament assessments/socialization plans

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Are Cane Corsos good family dogs?
Yes—in experienced homes with early socialization, clear rules, and supervision due to size/strength.

Do Cane Corsos drool?
Moderately. Expect drool after drinking/exertion—keep towels handy.

Do Cane Corsos shed a lot?
Low to moderate. Weekly brushing controls hair; seasonal sheds are heavier.

Are Cane Corsos hypoallergenic?
No.

How much exercise does a Cane Corso need?
Plan for 60–90 minutes daily plus training/brain work (obedience, nose work).

Are Cane Corsos aggressive?
They’re natural guardians—not inherently aggressive—but require socialization, training, and management to channel protective instincts appropriately.

Cane Corso vs Neapolitan Mastiff—what’s different?
Corsos are more athletic/tighter-skinned and versatile for farm/estate work; Mastinos are heavier, looser-skinned, bred primarily for stationary deterrence.

Are Cane Corsos good apartment dogs?
Possible for committed owners with structured routines and daily outlets; easier with a fenced yard.

What health tests should breeders do?
Hips/elbows, cardiac (echo preferred), and CAER eyes; discuss thyroid and family history of bloat/GDV.

Should a Cane Corso be ear-cropped or tail-docked?
Natural ears/tails are functional; cropping/docking are restricted in many Canadian provinces—check local veterinary policies and laws.

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