The Cane Corso
HISTORY
The Cane Corso is a very rare and ancient Italian breed that has been derived from the now extinct Roman Molosser. It is believed that, in ancient times, this historic Roman Molosser gave rise to two very different breeds of dog. One dog was massive and became known as the Neapolitan Mastiff, the other was a taller, lighter more agile mastiff which has become known as the Cane Corso. As the Romans bred dogs based on their usability, the Cane Corso was used primarily for hunting big game such as wild boar, wolf and bear and also guarding property and livestock from large predators such as wolves and human cattle thieves.
Over the years, as big game hunting declined, the Cane Corso was used by farmers to herd cattle, protect the livestock and as a guard for the family home. The breed prospered with the flourishing agricultural economy during the 19th century and the years between World War 1 and World War II. After World War II, farms became increasingly modernised and there was little need for Corsos thus breed numbers decreased and the breed almost became extinct. Luckily, there were a few specimens which existed in isolated parts of Southern Italy where traditional activities were carried out. In these isolated places, the breed lived on, less used as working dogs but maintained for passion and tradition. It was due to the desire of a few families who wished to conserve the dogs inherited from their ancestors that the breed survived.
About The Cane Corso
The Cane Corso is a natural guard dog, aloof with strangers and very protective over their family. This breed has a strong sense of territory and rarely strays from the surroundings of their home. As with any breed, if well socialised from an early age, Corsi get along well with younger family members and are protective yet gentle, almost as if they are aware of the innocence of young children. This is a breed that bonds very quickly to their family and do enjoy being included in family activities. They are an active breed and their high levels of athleticism allows them to accompany their owners on bike rides, jogging, horse riding, swimming and long walks. This breed does not do well if they are left alone for long periods of time and can become destructive due to boredom.
As with any large breed, the Cane Corso does requires training and socialization and owners should ensure that they train their dogs thoroughly so that they grow up to become a respected member of the community. Many places now run obedience/training classes for dogs of all ages and it is strongly recommended that owners actively participate in these classes or train their dogs on a regular basis at home. This will ensure that the owner remains the pack leader. If you are not prepared to make this commitment then the Cane Corso is not the dog for you. Corsos, especially males, can be very dominant and will challenge you for what they perceives to be leadership of the pack. Considering there size and level of intelligence, this breed is not one for the in-experienced dog owner. This breed can also be aggressive towards other dogs and should be encouraged to play and socialise with other dogs from an early age.
What activities can a Cane Corso do?
The Cane Corso is a very active breed that loves to play, work and have lots of fun. The Corso is a dependent dog and their nature makes them easily trainable for numerous functions. Below is information on activities, pictures and information on different ways you can work and have fun with your Cane Corso.
Personal Protection
Cane Corsos make excellent guard dogs. They have a bold look, outgoing personality and deep bark. It is important that when you consider training your Corso (or any other breed of dog) in personal protection that you speak to professional trainers and have your dog assessed by them before undertaking this type of training. Cane Corso owners that decide to train their dog in personal protection must be aware of their responsibilities in owning a dog trained in this manner.
Herding
In Southern Italy and Sicily, the Cane Corso is still very much a farm dog and is still used today to herd sheep and cattle.
Catch Dogs
The catch dog is still used for hunting wild boar in many lands. The Corso's size, agility, mobility and strong jaws meet the requirements for this job. "Bull" breeds are commonly used for this function due to their strong grip.
Weight Pulling
In some countries in the World, the Cane Corso is used in harnessing activities such as weight pulling.
Showing
Showing is a fun activity for both the owner and the dog. The Cane Corso is not a recognised breed here in the UK and therefore can not be shown at Kennel Club shows. They can however be shown at Companion dog shows (formerly known as Exemption Shows) always run in aid of charity, often as part of a village fete. Often there are 4 classes for pedigree dogs, followed by various novelty classes. Novelty classes are not restricted to cross-breeds, and dogs entered in any class do not need to be registered at the Kennel Club. Companion Dog shows (advertised in local papers) are great fun, ideal for practising showing and are an excellent way of socialising young dogs. The Cane Corso UK & Molosser Rescue also holds events throughout the year and where all breeds are usually welcome to attend. Please check our Fundraising page & Forum for details of any upcoming events.
Good Citizen Award Scheme
The Kennel Club Good Citizen Dog Scheme is the largest dog training scheme in the UK. Its aim is to promote responsible dog ownership and in turn, enhance your relationship with your dog and make the community aware of the benefits associated with dog ownership. Many dog training clubs up and down the UK offer this training scheme. The Scheme brings together simple exercises such as basic dog training, grooming, exercise, diet, cleaning up after the dog and general health care. The Scheme incorporates three awards - BRONZE, SILVER and GOLD. Each level involves a gradual development in your understanding of dogs.
Agility
Agility is fun with any dog, especially a Corso. The Corso's athletic ability and eagerness to please allows them to compete in agility competitions with a reasonable amount of success.
HEALTH ISSUES IN THE BREED
Canine Hip Dysplasia
CHD is the most common, but also other problems seen include:
Elbow Dysplasia
Panosteoitis
Osteochondritis Dessicans
Wobbler Syndrome
Canine Epilepsy
Further information on these conditions can be found on our
FORUM
bravenet.com