Cane Corso Dog Breed Profile

by Dr. Chris

AKC Group: Working Group

The Cane Corso dog is one of the newest AKC breeds, just approved in 2010. Originally from Italy, this dog is considered rare. It is a large dog that is a great guard dog and protector.

History

The Cane Corso dog's ancestor is likely the Neapolitan Mastiff, but is faster and more agile. It gets its name from the Latin word, "Cohors", which means means protector or guardian.

Being from Italy, the dogs are definitely the current comparable version of the Roman battle dogs which were meant to fight lions and wilderness creatures in the Roman arena.

Physical Features

The Cane Corso is definitely a sophisticated mastiff type of dog with a large build. The dog measures 22 to 24 inches high and weighs about 80 to 100 pounds.

Color of the coat may be black, blue, chestnut, red and fawn. Coat could also have darker blotches of any of those shades. The dog's hair is thick, vibrant but hard to touch. It has a length of about one inch and grows longer in winter. The dog's feet and chest could have white pads.

The dog shows a very dominant posture. The deep and broad snout and solid lips that carry the form of an inverted U provides the snout a fairly square and flat form. The jaws are strong and wide; big clean white teeth possess a level bite. Almond formed eyes are moderate sized, and eyelids are pigmented with black.

Personality

The Cane Corso is extremely smart but tenacious. It requires diligent training and constructive encouragement. They are defensive yet tender. The Cane Corso carries a quiet steady character. The Cane could be an outstanding watch dog. It'll bark at thieves to warn the owner.

Common Health Problems

The Cane Corso's health problems are similar to that of other large breeds. Elbow and hip dysplasia, and other standard bone and joint dilemmas of the huge breeds.

Return to: Complete AKC Dog Breed List

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