About
The
Breed
Origins
The name Cane Corso (pronounced kah-ney kors-oh) can be broken down to its original language; Cane in Italian means dog, a derivative of the Latin canis. Also in Latin Cohors- this would mean bodyguard or guardian. They have a long and interesting history dating back to the Roman empire. They were known for being at the forefront of the army and fiercely charging enemy lines. This extremely protective and tenacious breed served Roman soldiers well on the battlefield and are credited for assisting in many Roman victories.
Post Roman Empire
After the Roman wars had ended, the Cane Corso had to adapt to civilian life. They were often used on farms to protect livestock from wild animals and thieves. The Cane Corso was known for protecting farmers from wild hogs and aiding them with tracking down mothers who would hide with their young. Corsi were also used to herd cattle since they were strong and tenacious enough to grab a wild bull by the neck or nose and completely incapacitate it.
Although they were often used for driving livestock, helping farmers, and hunting large game including bears, deer, and wild boar, the primary role of the Corso was that of a guard dog. Their naturally protective instinct made them an ideal breed for keeping watch over homes. The breed grew in popularity and it became very common to see Corsi on farmsteads and in pastures throughout the countryside.
Recent History
(1945 – 2009)
After World War II, the population of Corsos declined as their working needs were no longer in demand. Life in Italy had changed, there were fewer farms, less livestock, and fewer threats from wild animals. The farms that remained began to convert to mechanical farming methods which took over many of the jobs the Cane Corso was once trusted to perform. The growing popularity of firearms also made it easier to protect your home without the assistance of a large guard dog. By the mid-20th century they became so rare that they almost fell into extinction. In the mid-1970’s, a few Cane Corso enthusiasts recalled the dogs and worked together to locate some still known through the countryside and began to revitalize the breed.
While the Cane Corso was largely unheard of outside of Italy, it wasn’t until the breed was introduced to the rest of Europe and the United States in the early 1980’s where it grew increasingly in popularity. Since then, the Cane Corso has been accepted as a breed in the Italian Kennel Club (ENCI), the World Kennel Club (FCI), and the most recent American Kennel Club (AKC) in 2010.
Modern Day
(2010 – Present)
The modern-day Cane Corso is now known primarily as a family companion and guard dog. They quickly bond with their owners, are naturally good with children, and enjoy being included in family activities. However, the breed is generally not recommended for first-time dog owners. As natural guard dogs, they have a tendency to be protective of their families and property and suspicious of change. They require strong and constant leadership, but their undying loyalty makes them easy to train because they bond so closely and are constantly trying to please their owners. When correcting a Corso, often a strong word or a harsh tone is all that is needed to get the message across, as they often sulk after being reprimanded. These dogs crave attention and love, to the point that they are often described as “velcro-dogs” as there is no such thing as being “close enough”.
Summary
Overall, the Cane Corso has the potential to be one of the best dogs you will ever have the pleasure of owning, but please be informed before making the decision to purchase one. These dogs require a high level of commitment, firm leadership, moderate activity, and plenty of love.
De Novo Cane Corso 