State

Breed

Size

About This Breed

Dog Group: Working
Size: 24-27 inches tall, 85-110 lbs
Lifespan: 10-12 years
Energy Level: High
Coat: Short-haired and glossy
Shedding: Moderate
Hypoallergenic: No

History: The Cane Corso is a Mastiff-type breed that originated in Italy. The breed is believed to have descended from Roman war dogs, along with the Neapolitan Mastiff. The Cane Corso was bred to be a versatile dog that could perform a range of different jobs, from guarding property to herding cattle. That said, these dogs were mainly used on farms. Once farming became more mechanized, however, Cane Corsos were less in-demand and almost became extinct by the 1970s. Luckily, thanks to some dedicated individuals, the breed was revived, and even had its own breed club by 1983. The Cane Corso made its way to the United States in 1988, but the breed wasn't recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) until 2010.

Temperament: Given the right home and training, the Cane Corso is an even-tempered, devoted family companion. Due to their intelligence and slightly bossy nature, Cane Corsos require a firm hand when it comes to leadership and training. Without clear boundaries, these dogs may attempt to dominate the household, so they're not a breed of choice for novice dog owners. With proper socialization, Cane Corsos do well with children. The breed typically gets along with other dogs, but mainly those of the opposite sex. Otherwise, they may become aggressive in an attempt to assert their dominance. All in all, these dogs make excellent family pets and loving companions for owners who know how to train them properly.