Cane Corso dog breed: characteristics, description, photo, standard, care and maintenance

2024 Author: Priscilla Miln | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-16 00:21

A powerful descendant of gladiator dogs, an indispensable guard and protector, a faithful and infinitely devoted friend, devoid of unmotivated aggression. This characteristic of the Cane Corso dog breed often comes from the lips of the owners of these animals. How objective is the opinion of loving owners? What are the advantages of this giant? Do representatives of the breed have disadvantages? What is the name of this unusually beautiful animal? We will try to give detailed answers to these and many other questions of animal lovers in this review.

The Cane Corso dog is the national pride of Italian cynologists. This is the 14th breed that was bred in sunny Italy. She was assigned to the II group "Schnauzers and Pinschers, Molossians, Swiss Cattle and Mountain Dogs" according to the classification of the FCI, namely to the II section - "Molossians".

A bit of history

The ancestors of the Italian Cane Corso dog are the descendants of ancient dogs from the Himalayas and Tibet. Their distribution in Europe and Asia increased the popularity of animals. Powerful, large, strong and fearless dogs were used tohunting, guarding houses, baiting big game, protecting people.

Cane Corso (we posted a photo in the review), which appeared on the territory of southern Italy, were the direct ancestors of pickling dogs, which were used in dog fights in ancient Rome. For the first time, dogs resembling Cane Corso were described as early as the 13th century. In the Middle Ages, their images often appeared on the coats of arms of Italian aristocratic families.

In the middle of the 16th century, the naturalist Gessner from Germany described the Cane Corso as animals possessing such great strength and power that allowed them to easily cope with oxen and hunt wild boars. Judging by the description, the Cane Corso in Italy was a truly multifunctional animal: it was used for driving and grazing cattle, guarding castles, hunting wild boars and bears, baiting lions, and participating in dog fights.

The years after the end of the war (1941-1945) became a black streak in the history of the breed: the number of animals dropped sharply, and the breed was on the verge of extinction. Only in the seventies of the XX century, a group of enthusiasts, led by Giovanni Bonatti, began to actively revive the population.

Its further development is clearly visible in the following events:

• 1984 – provisional breed standard adopted.
• From 1989 to 1992 - the Italian Kennel Club maintains the "Open Breed Book". The revival of the breed was clearly evidenced by the fact that over 500 purebred animals were officially registered during this period.
• 1994 - the breed is officially recognizedCynological Association of Italy.
• 1995 - Creation of the SACC (Society of Cane Corso Lovers).
• 1996 - the breed was officially recognized by the International Cynological Organization.

Description of the breed

Cane Corso is a very large, self-confident dog, distinguished by its intense attentive gaze and powerful muscles playing under smooth skin. Looking at this handsome man, who is always balanced and calm, it is unlikely that anyone will have doubts about the fate of a daredevil who decides to show even a hint of aggression towards his owner.

Many cynological publications publish a description of the Cane Corso. This noble guard dog, distinguished by stunning facial expressions and a surprisingly expressive look, is quite worthy of such attention to her person. Cane Corso, photos of which often decorate the pages of cynological publications, are really very beautiful. Animals have a strong, one might say, athletic physique: well-developed chest and muscles, no skin folds.

Representatives of the breed have a straight short back, long limbs, not inferior in power to other parts of their body. The tail is set rather high with a thickening at the base. Cane Corso belongs to the Molossians, especially large animals.

The Cane Corso Standard sets strict requirements for the representatives of the breed. The slightest deviations from it are considered disqualifying factors. The height of the Cane Corso at the withers is 70 cm. It should be noted here that these dogs grow up totwo years. Therefore, the growth figure in the standard refers to the adult Cane Corso.

Head

Like almost all Great Danes, the head of the Cane Corso is large, the muzzle is slightly flattened and upturned, square. The skull is rather wide, the forehead is convex from the front, and becomes flatter closer to the crown of the head. The neck is powerful and muscular. The cropped ears of the Cane Corso are triangular in shape. It should be noted here that the Cane Corso breed standard allows for both cropped and hanging ears. In Russia, docking is allowed, while in most foreign countries it is prohibited, and animals with cropped ears are not allowed to international exhibitions held in their territories.

Oval eyes, medium size. The iris can be black or dark brown. Eyelids close tight.

How much does the dog weigh?

These are rather overweight animals. According to the standard, the weight of the Cane Corso ranges from 40 to 50 kg.

Coat

Coat is shiny and short with little seasonal undercoat. Long coat and large white markings are considered disqualifying faults.

Color

The palette of Cane Corso colors allowed by the standard is quite wide. Therefore, if you are planning to purchase a puppy of this breed, take a closer look at the animals of the following colors:

• All shades of gray.
• Black.
• Dark red (down to mahogany with black hairline or black tips). This color is often referred to as murugim;

Mostpopular is the brindle Cane Corso. In this case, contrasting stripes are located on gray or red wool. Brindle Cane Corso must have a gray or black mask on the muzzle that does not extend beyond the line of the eyes. White dogs of this breed do not exist: only small, barely noticeable white spots on the back of the nose, tips of the paws and on the chest are allowed by the standard.

Character

Getting acquainted with the characteristics of the Cane Corso dog breed, the growing popularity of these animals among dog breeders around the world becomes clear. These giants have not only outstanding external data. The character of the Cane Corso is soft, balanced, accommodating and conflict-free, which does not go well with his formidable appearance.

This pet has excellent guarding instincts. Even without serious training of your friend, you can be sure that he will perfectly understand that his main function is to protect family members, territory and property.

As we have already said, representatives of the breed are endowed with a balanced character: such a dog will never show unmotivated aggression towards a stranger if he sees that the owner is friendly towards the guest. If your pet feels a threat from a stranger, he will take control of the situation, and with all his appearance will inform others about it. An attack can only be made at the command of the owner or as a response to aggressive actions.

If you already have pets in your house, the Cane Corso will make an effortto make friends with them, even if the former inhabitants perceive his appearance "with hostility." Easily finds a common language with small dogs, cats, and parrots. Particularly noteworthy is the reverent and very careful attitude towards children.

It should be recognized that representatives of this breed have a very developed “parental instinct”. That is why this huge dog will never offend even strangers, and the owner's kids will be under constant and reliable protection and care. Corsas let their little owners do whatever they want with them. But when the child tires them too much with his pranks, the dog will simply leave and hide in an inaccessible place. If you can't hide, this giant will endure until the little tomboy gets tired.

This is a wonderful, smart and thinking four-legged friend. He quickly, and most importantly, correctly understands and fulfills the commands and desires of the owner. However, he does not seek to take the role of leader in the house. The description of the character of the Cane Corso will be incomplete if we do not talk about the endless devotion of these animals to all family members. For these giants, emotional contact with a person is vital. These are recognized "monogamous" who are very difficult to endure the change of owner. Such pets should feel their need and usefulness in the house. Owners need to show this to their dog more often.

Judging by the characteristics of the Cane Corso dog breed, emotional isolation is unacceptable: such a method in education can harm the psyche of the animal. Dogs of this breed are completely unobtrusive: they will play with pleasure.with children and adults, but on condition that the person becomes the initiator of the games.

These giants are not "chatty" - they give a voice in case of emergency. Many owners even train their pets to "Voice!" to hear their loud growl.

Care and maintenance

Characteristics of the Cane Corso dog breed and reviews of experienced dog breeders suggest that with proper walking, such a dog feels comfortable in any living space, with the exception of small apartments. Year-round keeping of these animals on the street is not recommended.

A dog kept in an aviary needs to be equipped with a warm place to sleep in winter. Do not forget that short hair with a small undercoat will not warm in cold weather. Cane Corso is not suitable for the role of a chain dog: they have a very freedom-loving character and a great desire to communicate with people.

Grooming

As you understand, such a pet does not need haircuts. Periodically it is combed out with a special brush. It is important that the hair of the Italian dog does not have a specific unpleasant odor. Bathe such a pet several times a year. The rest of the time, the wool is wiped with a rubber brush or a damp towel.

Claw care

An actively walking dog does not need to cut its claws. They fit perfectly while walking. But do not forget to keep them clean - the paws should be wiped with a damp cloth every time after returning from the street. But if you hear a characteristic clatter, then your pet needs totrim nails using special tweezers.

Eye Care

According to the standard, the Canne Corso's lower eyelid should not be too droopy. If your pet has excessively moist eyes, make sure that discharge and crusts do not accumulate in the corners.

Teeth

If the owner of the animal adheres to the nutrition system recommended by veterinarians, then there should be no problems with the teeth. In the meantime, inspect them yourself and show them to a specialist from time to time. Treat your friend with tartar-fighting treats.

Pests

The Cane Corso has almost no permanent undercoat. Therefore, they become easy prey for many parasites. Ticks and fleas can settle in wool. To prevent the appearance of these uninvited guests, carry out regular antiparasitic treatments, especially in spring and summer.

Vaccinations

Typically, the vaccination schedule is made by a veterinarian. Usually, puppies are vaccinated twice a year, and for adults, one polyvalent vaccine per year is sufficient, although your veterinarian may decide otherwise in some cases.

Physical activity

Having a muscular texture, the Canne Corso, like the Mastino Neapolitano, needs serious physical exertion. Walking with animals should be long with running and training.

Communication

Representatives of the Canne Corse breed are quite sociable and friendly. Periodically, they need to meet with their brothers in order to frolic to their heart's content.

What to feed the Canne Corso?

This question worries many who want to get such a pet. These are large dogs, so hardly anyone thinks that they eat like birds. The body of such a giant needs a balanced diet. If you want to buy a puppy, then you should be prepared for the fact that the cost of food will be quite high.

The diet of an animal largely depends on how the dog is used. Service Cane Corsos require more energy, and therefore they also need more protein/fat/carbohydrates.

Daily for dogs weighing 50 kg should consume:

• 60-70g fat;
• 220-230g protein;
• 40g fiber;
• 460-470g carbs;
• 30g mineral blends;
• 1 liter of water.

Should be eliminated from the diet:

• pork;
• fresh bread;
• legumes;
• s alty and spicy food;
• dishes from the master's table;
• smoked meats.

Most breeders believe that the Cane Corso should use 500-600 grams of premium dry food per day.

He alth

This is a strong, he althy and very hardy dog. Animals reach full maturity after two years. At the age of six, these are already “elderly” experienced dogs, and from the age of eight, the dog is transferred to the “veterans” group. On average, the life expectancy of these dogs is 10-11 years, but with proper competent care, your faithful friend will delight you and 14 years old, while maintaining vigor.

Of course, Cane Corso gets sick sometimes. If not recognized in timealarming symptoms, the animal can live less than 10 years. In addition, owners often take risks from the very beginning, buying puppies at the bird market or from unscrupulous breeders who often breed sick dogs, and then sell babies with a whole bunch of diseases, or with a predisposition to them:

• bloating;
• inversion or eversion of the eyelid;
• allergy;
• hip dysplasia;
• thyroid disease;
• epilepsy.

It is not certain that these diseases will manifest themselves in old age. For example, a disease of large breeds - dysplasia in Cane Corso can manifest itself quite early. Epilepsy is a hereditary disease. It can appear at any age and significantly shorten the life of the animal, especially if left untreated.

Don't discount infectious, viral and parasitic diseases. Fortunately, proper care and timely vaccination protects against the latter.

Dog first aid kit

Every caring and loving owner should not only know the symptoms of major diseases that can threaten his pet, but also have the necessary medical supplies. So that you can quickly bandage the paw and save your pet from colic in the stomach.

Dogs should always be in the first aid kit:

• brilliant green;
• iodine;
• cotton wool;
• bandages;
• activated carbon;
• boric acid.

In addition, the presence of Vishnevsky's ointment is welcome, which quickly relieves inflammation. For pain relief, the dog may needanalgin. Eye and ear drops should always be on hand to treat various infections. Recall that the drugs must be exclusively veterinary. You may need tools:

• claw tongs;
• dropper;
• syringe;
• thermometer;
• tweezers and two syringes.

It must be understood that even a small cut on an animal's paw must be treated. Do not hope that everything will go away by itself. And, one more tip: pay as much attention as possible to your sick pet. Cane Corso, like no other breed, needs attention and care. Experts believe that sometimes they treat animals no less effectively than drugs. Surrounded by care and attention, your pet will live a full and long life.

Choosing a puppy

If you decide to buy a Canne Corso puppy, first of all, carefully study the history of the breed, learn about its features and characteristics. You should purchase a puppy from a specialized kennel or from a responsible breeder. Only in this case, a he althy baby with all the necessary documents will appear in your house.

When purchasing an animal from a breeder, pay attention to the conditions in which babies and adult dogs are kept. The room must be dry, clean and free from unpleasant odours. See how the kids are doing. He althy puppies are cheerful and cheerful, playing with their brothers and toys. When choosing a puppy, pay attention to the head of the animal.

Muzzle should havethe shape of a square, and its sides are parallel. A large defect is considered a cone-shaped shape. Such animals are culled. Of course, it is almost impossible to guess whether these charming little ones will become beauty champions in the future, but by purchasing them in a cattery, you can be sure that you have acquired a purebred representative of the breed.

Choosing a Nickname

The Cane Corso dog has Italian roots, and the history of its appearance goes back to the times of the Roman Empire, dog breeders have found several ways to pick up a beautiful nickname for the Cane Corso. To do this, you can use the names of famous Romans or Caesars (may the great ones forgive you). For example, Tiberius, Octavian, Clement, Augustus, Claudius and others.

When choosing a nickname, remember that you will pronounce it hundreds or even thousands of times. Therefore, it should please all members of your family. Changing the name of a pet can confuse the animal and confuse him for a long time. In addition, keep in mind that the puppy's name should not resemble the names of your family members and should not be similar to any team. For example, Sid is a nickname that sounds like the command "Sit!", so it can only confuse your little friend.

Undoubtedly, choosing a nickname for such a handsome man is not easy. We offer you several options for males and females Canne Corso.

For boys:

• Archie.
• Nortis.
• Tyson.
• Mike.
• Osman.
• Georges.
• Theo.
• Norman.
• Otis.
• Khaki.

Girls:

• Jesse.
• Molly.
• Barça.
• Sally.
• Alice.
• Sheldy.
• Helga.
• Stacy.
• Nancy.
• Chloe.