Cane Corso Dog Breed: Pictures, Info, Care Guide & Traits

Cane Corso owners always feel safe with their gentle giant by their side! This fiercely loyal dog is a natural protector and will always keep a watchful eye over their family. Despite their huge size, the Cane Corso actually has a heart of gold. If trained properly, this big breed can be the perfect pet for small children.

Breed Overview

While the Cane Corso might make you feel tough, this powerful dog isn’t for everyone. They require an experienced owner who is ready to put in the time and effort to correctly train and socialize this huge pup. If you’re thinking about adding a Cane Corso to your household, here is your complete guide to this colossal canine.

Cane Corso Characteristics

Cane Corso Puppies

The Cane Corso is an adorable dog that will later turn into a gentle giant with an energetic, social, and lovable personality. They are good for training too.

If you’re looking for an intelligent and protective dog, the Cane Corso is for you. They love to have something to do, so it’s important to give them a job to keep them mentally stimulated and avoid boredom. They also might do better as the only dog in the house. If you welcome a Cane Corso puppy into your home, it’ll be an unforgettable and fun experience for all.

Temperament & Intelligence of the Cane Corso

The Cane Corso is a highly intelligent dog that is extremely loyal and loving to their family. That said, this canine needs an experienced, consistent, and confident owner who will efficiently train and socialize them. Due to their massive size, the Cane Corso can easily injure their owner or a complete stranger. They can even be prone to bouts of aggression. Firm leadership is necessary for this breed. But that does not mean hitting your pet. The Cane Corso is also extremely sensitive and can easily comprehend the tone of your voice. Positive reinforcement training works best with this breed.

Are These Dogs Good for Families? 👪

The Cane Corso makes a good family pet for active families with older children. Due to his large size, they can accidentally injure smaller children during playtime. Early training and socialization are imperative for this breed. Training should start well before the dog is 4 months old. It is critical that you teach your Cane Corso who the top dog is (you!) from the get-go. Since this breed is prone to stubbornness and aggression, consistent training is key. You need to be an assertive pet parent with a Cane Corso.

Does This Breed Get Along With Other Pets? 🐶 😽

If socialized early, the Cane Corso will get along with other pets. However, we recommend that they be the only pet in your household. They can easily injure smaller dogs or pets because of their size. If you do bring a Cane Corso into a multi-pet household, always keep a close eye on your animals whenever they interact.

Things to Know When Owning a Cane Corso

In order for your Cane Corso to live their best life, you’ll need to provide them with the required essentials, such as a high-quality diet and plenty of attention and exercise.

Food & Diet Requirements 🦴

The Cane Corso will need a top-notch kibble that accommodates their size, activity level, and age. Always consult with your vet about the best formula for your pet. High-protein, meat-based, large-breed dog food is best for the Cane Corso. Feed your pet four to five cups of kibble divided into two meals per day.

Exercise 🐕

Cane Corsos are fairly active dogs that are known for their speed and agility. However, due to their size, they cannot comfortably zoom around the inside of the house all day long. They will need plenty of playtime outdoors or to be taken for long walks. Aim to walk your dog for about a mile or two every day.

Since this is a working dog, a Cane Corso will need mental stimulation in addition to their daily exercise. Enrolling your dog in a weekly obedience class not only will teach them proper manners but will also keep them actively engaged. While you’re at work or away from home, provide your Cane Corso with numerous interactive toys, such as a puppy puzzle, to keep their mind occupied.

Training 🎾

Ongoing training is imperative for this breed. The Cane Corso can easily overtake you, so having a properly trained dog is critical for your safety and the safety of others. Positive reinforcement training works best for this smart and sensitive pup. The Cane Corso can be stubborn, so plenty of patience is required during your training sessions. Help your dog develop confidence by socializing them from the start with other people and dogs. Take them for long walks where they can meet new faces, or consider enrolling them in a puppy class. Socialization and training are lifelong commitments for the Cane Corso. It doesn’t stop at puppyhood.

Grooming ✂️

Cane Corsos have short fur and don’t require daily grooming. Bathe your dog biweekly. Brush their teeth daily. Clip their nails and clean their ears as needed.

Health and Conditions 🏥

The Cane Corso is a relatively hardy breed. However, they’re prone to certain health conditions. Routine vet visits, a quality diet, and plenty of exercise can all combat health issues.

Male vs. Female

Male Cane Corsos are larger than females and can be more aggressive if not properly trained and socialized.

3 Little-Known Facts About the Cane Corso

1. They Will Protect You From a Lion

Cane Corsos have been around for nearly 1,000 years. They were originally developed as guard dogs, so the Romans used this breed to fend off lions.

2. The Cane Corso’s Lifespan May Be Related to Their Coat Color

A recent study explored the lifespan of Cane Corsos based on their coat colors. It was found that black Cane Corsos lived longer than ones with light-colored fur.

3. They Always Need a Job to Do

The Cane Corso is a working breed. They’re easily prone to boredom if they don’t have a task to work on. So, give your pup a job!

Final Thoughts

The Cane Corso is a large, loyal, and loving dog that is best suited for experienced owners. This isn’t a “starter” breed; they require ongoing socialization and training. Additionally, they will need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. The Cane Corso does best as the only pet in the household.

If you’re looking for a gentle giant to add to your family, consider a Cane Corso today!

Featured Image Credit: George Trumpeter, Shutterstock