Cane Corso Puppies

Photo of Cane Corso

The Intelligent and Devoted Cane Corso

Cane Corso are smart, trainable, and lauded as one of the best guard dogs in the world. Their lineage goes back to the ancient Roman times, and the breed's name roughly translates to "bodyguard dog" in Latin. Despite their large and intimidating look, they can be kind and affectionate, and are very loyal to their owners.


Cane Corso At a Glance

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Cane Corso At a Glance

  • Size: 24"-27", 85-110 lbs.
  • Lifespan: 10-12 years
  • Energy Level: high
  • Coat: Short-haired and glossy
  • Shedding: moderate
  • Hypoallergenic: No
  • Dog Group: Working
  • Common Nicknames: Italian Mastiff

Cane Corso Breed Guide

Learn More About Cane Corsos

  • Temperament

    Given the right home and training, the Cane Corso is an even-tempered, devoted family companion. Due to their intelligence and slightly bossy nature, Cane Corsos require a firm hand when it comes to leadership and training. Without clear boundaries, these dogs may attempt to dominate the household, so they're not a breed of choice for novice dog owners. With proper socialization, Cane Corsos do well with children. The breed typically gets along with other dogs, but mainly those of the opposite sex. Otherwise, they may become aggressive in attempt to assert their dominance. All in all, these dogs make excellent family pets and loving companions for owners who know how to train them properly.

  • Health

    Corsos are generally pretty healthy, but could be prone to certain health conditions, like hip dysplasia, idiopathic epilepsy, eyelid abnomalities, demodectic mange, and gastric torsion.

  • Activity Level

    They need a high level of exercise to thrive, preferably exercise that is also mentally stimulating. A brisk walk or run of a mile in the morning and evening, and having a fenced in yard they can play in is highly encouraged. If they are not stimulated physically and mentally on a daily basis negative behaviors can begin to develop.

  • Grooming

    The Cane Corso's coat should be brushed weekly most of the year and daily during shedding season in the spring.

  • Shedding

    Cane Corso's shourt double coat sheds moderately year-round but is heavy during shedding season in the spring.

  • Appearance

    Cane Corso are large, muscular, and intimidating, which is part of what makes them such great guard dogs. Their ears are typically cropped, which adds to the intimidating look. Their coat is coarse and thick, and their striking almond-shaped eyes vary in color.

  • History

    The Cane Corso is a Mastiff-type breed that originated in Italy. The breed is believed to have descended from Roman war dogs, along with the Neapolitan Mastiff. The Cane Corso was bred to be a versatile dog that could perform a range of different jobs, from guarding property to herding cattle. That said, these dogs were mainly used on farms. Once farming became more mechanized, however, Cane Corsos were less in-demand and almost became extinct by the 1970s. Luckily, thanks to some dedicated individuals, the breed was revived, and even had its own breed club by 1983. The Cane Corso made its way to the United States in 1988, but the breed wasn't recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) until 2010.