Negative and positive reviews from Cane Corso owners

The Cane Corso is an ancient breed whose ancestors were ancient Roman Molossian dogs. Even earlier, history suggests the Cane Corso's ancestors included Etruscan mastiffs, Persian and Carthaginian war dogs, and Macedonian hounds. The modern breed combines guard dog, military service, and gladiator fighting skills.

Italian dog breeders are proud of the Can Corso breed, as they made a significant contribution to restoring the breed and its lost uniqueness. The word "cane" translates as "dog," and "corso" is understood by Italians as "guardian," "court," and "warhorse." The name makes it clear that the dog was unique among Italians, capable of performing any service at its master's side. It was entrusted with protecting its owner and his property, herding large livestock, playing with small children, and assisting in bear hunting.

Historical information about the breed

In the images and literature of the 15th century there are references to the Cane Corso breed in the form of proverbs and drawings of a lion and a dog fightingIn Ancient Rome, after the fall of the empire, targeted breeding efforts ceased completely. Dog breeding and offspring production became haphazard, which had a negative impact on the breed's characteristics. The new aristocracy rejected the Cane Corso, and the breed became regarded as a large, common dog.

Such factors of species degeneration lead to interbreeding with other breeds and the loss of their distinctive appearance. The rise of urban development led to the near-extinction of the Cane Corso. Salvation came from Italian enthusiasts who sought to restore the breed, which they considered a defining characteristic of their nation. They collected specimens with preserved Cane Corso traits from all the abandoned corners of their homeland.

In 1976, dog researcher Breber published an article about the Cane Corso breed, which became the subject of discussion. After this, society of lovers of the species, among whose followers arose many disputes and conflicts. The breed's development was not entirely straightforward. Club members invited breeders and engaged the services of expert cynologists. Their titanic efforts were not in vain, and in early 1994, the Cane Corso breed was granted official status. A series of studies were conducted to refine the breed's standard characteristics. Since 2003, these characteristics have been adopted by the International Cane Corso Federation.

Standard characteristics of dogs

External data

Large dog with clearly defined musclesThe dog's length exceeds its height at the withers, which for males and females is 65–68 cm and 61–64 cm, respectively. Weight ranges from 40 to 50 kilograms. Wide jaws, together with pendulous lips, outline the profile line of the muzzle, which is twice as short as the skull and its transverse dimension exceeds its length.

A true Cane Corso is characterized by black eyes with dark rims, slightly convex, and oval-shaped. Lighter eyes are also acceptable, but dark eyes indicate a purebred breed. The high-set, wide-set ears hang down at the sides, but owners prefer docking.

The large head, via a strong neck, flows into a strong body with slightly prominent withers over a low croup with a well-developed chest. The dog's tail is usually docked and set on a thick base. The front legs, long and muscular, extend from the broad shoulders and end in powerful metacarpusThe Cane Corso's long-muscled hindquarters allow for sweeping movements while running.

A short, shiny coat with a small undercoat covers dense skin. The standard color is black, but shades of brindle, grayish, and reddish are permitted. Sometimes the breed's coloring is combined with small white markings on the paws and forequarters. Since Cane Corso breed standards have been defined recently, there is a debate among dog experts regarding color. Some suggest separate Cane Corso dog shows based on color. For example, fawn-colored dogs inherit their appearance from Staffordshire Terriers and Boxers, gray-colored dogs borrow the appearance of Mastiffs, and black-colored dogs borrow the appearance of Great Danes.

Pets' character

The powerful body and sturdy stance, combined with the dog's size, inspire timidity and respect. A stranger would hesitate to pet or caress it. It's what's in the blood of these beauties. a combination of different breeds of their ancestors, reveals the different characters of dogs and some differences in the psyche of individual specimens.

If a puppy has any negative personality traits at birth, they will be mitigated in young animals with proper training. Early social adaptation is recommended for all pets, regardless of their mental state, especially since a dog's development takes place over the course of three years. If the owner treats the pet kindly, the puppy will grow into an intelligent and understanding animal, but until the age of eighteen months, it is still a young and playful dog.

In any case, it is best to take a pet into foster care at the age of 2-3 months, and after six months, only experienced dog handlers can handle a puppy; incompetent caregivers will not be able to overcome habits unacceptable for life near a person or longing for the old owner. An adult animal exhibits normal behavior friendly disposition towards all household members, loves to play with children.

If a Cane Corso tires of a child's mischief, it will simply hide in an inaccessible place. If there's no such place, it will patiently tolerate children's games without causing them pain. Purebred pets are required to control their strength, and despite their large size, they can be left with a child. The most frightening thing for a puppy is to hear the distressed cries of the child it's guarding.

The dog is cautious and attentive to strangers, but does not show overt aggression. However, if the pet attacks other animals or strangers, this indicates serious flaws in training. Training begins immediately after vaccinations, when the dog is small and easily controlled by the owner, and when it becomes heavier. not every owner will be able to keep it.

It's not recommended to specifically train a dog to be aggressive, as it can damage the dog's psyche, leading to uncontrolled behavior in unfamiliar environments when the owner can't prevent it. Guarding traits emerge naturally; a pet won't bite passersby, but if it's determined to guard an object, it will growl quietly when a person approaches. Sometimes, without biting a passerby, it will simply press down on their right hand to discourage theft.

Behavior directed at other animals

Cane Corso reacts friendly to other petsLiving with him, they can become true friends. Outside, the dog usually doesn't react to other pets, treating them neutrally. At home, the puppy doesn't show much physical activity; if he likes a kitten or another pet, he simply allows it to be nearby.

Distinctive advantages of the Cane Corso dog

Why is this breed so popular? What qualities attract those who want a four-legged friend?

• a small, newborn puppy grows into a friendly dog, most suitable for living together with the owner and his family;
• If you try to develop positive character traits in a puppy, you will always succeed, you just have to train him correctly;
• To turn a pet into a faithful guard, you will have to put in some effort, but the result will be a loyal watchdog;
• What is admirable about a dog is its affection; a true family friend adores all family members; if you leave your pet alone and go away, even for a short time, the poor puppy will grieve so much that it is better not to do this;
• Cane Corso do not require special care, they can be housed even in a relatively small apartment, the main thing is for the dog to be close to its owner;
• The pet's selfless devotion to its owner is a credit to this intelligent and well-mannered breed; its even temperament can become temperamental and impetuous if ill-wishers attempt to harm the owner, or if they cross the boundaries of the permitted protected territory.

Disadvantages of the breed

Puppies of this type have some shortcomings, or rather, difficulties in education, adaptation and care:

• For some people, the most unacceptable thing is the dog's drooling, which it drops everywhere. To avoid this and reduce the manifestation, some experienced owners place small towels in each room and constantly wipe the pet's mouth, especially after drinking liquid;
• Another significant drawback is the dog's year-round shedding due to the fact that its coat does not have a distinct undercoat, sharp hairs fall out wherever the dog is;
• A dog's good appetite can also be considered a challenge for those owners who haven't taken their financial situation into account, since beautiful muscles on a pet's body grow from a complete protein diet;
• Often puppies are unsure of themselves as a result of improper upbringing, they are afraid of loud sounds, unfamiliar objects and strangers;
• If training is not given enough attention, a dog may shy away from a bird taking flight or a plastic bag lying on the road;
• Not everyone can afford to get a puppy, as the price is quite high and ranges from 20 to 45 thousand rubles.

Care and maintenance of a Cane Corso dog

How to care for an animalto avoid any difficulties that may arise:

• Dogs of this breed are very clean and love to bathe, so washing becomes a pleasure for both owner and pet.
• Inadequate feeding can lead to problems with joints and ligaments. The puppy should not be walked after eating, as a full belly will lead to an arched back;
• For puppies and adults, keeping them in a kennel is not suitable, since Cane Corso dogs do not have a warm undercoat;
• puppies under one year of age should be carried down the stairs to prevent abnormal bone development;
• It is important to provide puppies with sufficient exercise and long walks in the fresh air with games, running, and throwing objects;
• the dog does not tolerate hot weather very well, it is better to shorten walks during the hot season;
• Grooming consists of regular brushing with a stiff-bristled brush; preventative treatment against fleas is recommended;
• For regular cleaning of the ears, use gauze soaked in a special solution sold in pharmacies.

Cane Corso nutrition

To replenish the strength of such a large dog, it is essential to include in its diet natural meat is includedGuard dogs are not raised on a plant-based diet. Along with complete proteins and high-quality by-products, their diet should include dairy products, whole grain cereals, vegetables, and fruits. Dogs rarely enjoy sweets.

When it comes to foods that are prohibited for dogs, it's important to mention smoked foods and raw bony fish, especially from freshwater rivers. Freshwater fish contains parasite larvae in the meat and muscles. Sugary foods and carbohydrate-rich foods are not recommended. It's a good idea to offer your pet cattle bones to chew on. When feeding your dog raw, unprocessed meat, it's important to always take preventative measures. anthelmintic drugs.

High-quality dry food is used for feeding, but you need to decide whether to feed your dog natural food or only dry mixes. Combining the two types of food is not recommended.