Breed Description
The Cane Corso breed originates from Italy, where its ancestors served as combatants back in the Roman Empire. The name “Corso” probably comes from the Latin “cohors“, which means “sentry” or “protector”. These dogs were full-fledged guards of estates, herds and family.
The Cane Corso belongs to the Molossus, a heavy type of dog with powerful jaws, broad chest and massive musculature. They have a harmoniously built body, which allows them to be both graceful and incredibly hardy. The standard height of males is 64-68 cm and their weight is between 45 and 50 kg. Bitches are slightly smaller – 60-64 cm at the withers and weigh from 40 to 45 kg. However, in reality there are more massive representatives, which can exceed the norm by several kilograms without loss of breed quality.
According to the breed standard, the Cane Corso is not divided into official subspecies, but among breeders there is a conventional division into “classic” (closer to the working type) and “massive” (with a larger head, often for show). There are also differences in the shape of the head – from more square to slightly elongated. However, they are all part of the same recognized breed.
Cane Corso puppies
A cane corso puppy is an adorable chubby lump with a deep gaze and always serious expression. From an early age they impress with their calmness, observation and self-confidence. However, it is between 2 and 6 months of age that character traits are formed that will determine whether your adult dog will be obedient and balanced or unruly.
Cane Corso needs clear and consistent socialization, familiarization with new places, people, animals. Otherwise, a high level of guarding instinct can turn into excessive suspiciousness. It is also important to give the puppy mental exercise – this breed is extremely intellectual.
Choosing a breeder is critical. After all, the dog’s psyche depends on competent breeding. A real Cane Corso should not be aggressive or uncontrollable – it is an intelligent guardian, not a tough fighter.
Grooming of a Cane Corso
At first glance it may seem that grooming a Cane Corso is purely a formality: the coat is short, no curly coats, bows and complicated haircuts. But it is this appearance of “simplicity” that often misleads owners. Grooming of a Cane Corso is a full complex of procedures, without which the dog will not look well-groomed and, most importantly, will not feel comfortable.
The coat of a Cane Corso is short, dense, adhering to the body, with undercoat, which is especially active in the periods of seasonal shedding – spring and fall. And it is then that owners are faced with the unexpected – wool in large quantities remains on clothes, furniture, floor. To avoid this, grooming should include regular combing. Use a rubber brush, a furminator or a glove with massage teeth – depending on the season and intensity of shedding. Brushing removes dead hair but also stimulates skin circulation, reducing the risk of dermatitis.
Bathing a Cane Corso should not be frequent – usually once every 1-2 months or after special “adventures” in nature is enough. It is important to use shampoos without aggressive surfactants, preferably with vitamin E or oatmeal components that do not dry out the skin. Special attention should be paid to drying – the coat, although short, is dense, and moisture left at the root can cause irritation or even fungus.
The ears of the cane corso are a zone of special risk. Because of their shape (both purchased and natural ears tend to accumulate wax and moisture), they need to be checked weekly and gently cleaned with special lotions. Failure to do so increases the risk of otitis media and odor.
The claws need regular trimming, especially if the dog spends a lot of time on soft ground rather than asphalt. Too long claws affect gait and can even cause joint pain. Special attention should also be paid to the pads of the paws – in the heat they dry out, and in winter they suffer from salt. Regular lubrication with natural balms is a simple but effective method of protection.
The eyes of the Cane Corso are large, expressive, with moderate tearfulness. They should be wiped daily, especially if you notice deposits in the corners. In nose care, it is also important to avoid over-drying – natural oils or special wax balms are used for this purpose.
Despite the powerful appearance, the skin of the Cane Corso is sensitive. If grooming will be carried out with the wrong means or without proper attention, the dog can get flaking, itching, dullness of the coat. That is why it is worth periodically visiting a professional groomer in the salon, where there are all the conditions for bathing a dog of this breed.
The Cane Corso is a breed for those who appreciate intelligence, loyalty and true greatness. But this greatness requires an attentive and systematic approach. And for the best result – do not hesitate to contact grooming salons, where specialists who understand all the nuances of this noble breed work with Cane Corso.
