Cane Corso breed Information
Cane Corso Dog Breed: The Ultimate Guide 2020
Are you looking for a fierce watchdog to guard your home? Maybe you just want the company of a large dog who is ready to obey your every command.
Whatever the reason, you will find that the Cane Corso is an athletic, powerful canine that absolutely loves to be preoccupied with numerous chores such as guarding property and hunting game.
If you'd like to know more about this breed, take a tour in our comprehensive guide of the Cane Corso Dog Breed.
What Are the Characteristics of the Cane Corso
Cane Corsos are agile and energetic, best suited to dog parents with lots of training experience.
It is also best if you have a spacious yard for your pet to run around, but make sure it is securely fenced.
You also want to ensure your Cane Corso is continuously occupied with tasks to evade boredom and destructive behavior linked with the latter.
Therefore, if you offer your dog plenty of outdoor space, exercise, and training, then you will be rewarded with a faithful furry companion for the longest time.
View below all dog breed qualities and facts about the Cane Corso:
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Cane Corso Dog Breed: Adaptability
Give this pet a job! That's the only way to tame this hardy breed. The Cane Corso is definitely not a stay-pretty sleep on the couch dog.
He's unwilling to just idle or lazy around all day and often looks for his task if you fail to provide, always trolling the yard and barking at passersby, digging holes like Shawshank or chewing on something like your shoe.
If you have a farm, the Cane Corso will help to herd the livestock or otherwise enroll him for sporting activities such as tracking, agility, obedience, nose work, or dock diving.
This dog breed thus scores 2 stars out of 5 for adaptability. Let’s take a look at the reasons:
- Apartment friendly: Cane Corsos are not ideal for an apartment space, thus score 2 stars for suitability to apartment living. They require a large outside area, or you must walk for some hours daily.
- Suitable for new owners: Due to their stubbornness, Cane Corsos are not ideal for novice owners, and they score only 1 star for this quality. If you are new to dog parenting and desire to acquire this breed, it is recommendable to enroll for training classes or get in touch with a professional dog trainer.
- Level of sensitivity: Cane Corsos are moderately sensitive, thus score 3 stars for sensitivity level. They handle moderate punishment quite well and do not fall apart at a severe gaze.
It's okay sometimes to change their everyday routine, listen to loud music, or host house guests.
- Withstands being alone: This breed performs poorly when left alone, therefore scores only 2 stars out for tolerating being alone. They do best when a family member is always present at home. If your workplace is dog friendly, you can take your Cane Corso to work with you.
- Tolerates cold weather: The Cane Corso does effectively well in cold weather but holds 3 stars. Hence, its thin coat may not protect it adequately against the biting cold. A dog sweater or coat will help it keep warm during winter.
- Tolerates warm weather: Your Cane Corso will be best suited to warm temperatures. It scores 4 stars for enduring hot weather. Its thin coat helps it emit body heat efficiently, thus cooling off on a hot sunny day.
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Cane Corso Dog Breed: All-Around Friendliness
The Cane Corso is a genuine dog breed for an individual who is resolute about keeping him as a companion and who can offer the firm and loving guidance he requires to become an epic dog.
He is discreetly a family dog. Don't expect the Cane Corso to get comfortable with strangers- he rarely takes an interest in other people or animals outside his folks. However, his family will always receive his devotion and protection.
That said, the Cane Corso holds 3 out of 5 stars for all-around friendliness.
Let’s take a look at the qualities that account for his 3-star rating:
- Family-friendly: This breed scores 4 stars for being friendly with their family. When the Cane Corso is not busy working, he loves to be around his family and enjoys play sessions.
- Child friendly: Cane Corsos score 3 stars for child-friendliness. They are reasonably receptive and tolerant of child companions.
- Dog friendly: They also score 3 stars for canine friendliness. This means they can learn to accept other dogs' company, especially those in the same household.
- Stranger friendly: The Cane Corso does not entertain strangers and will often bark with someone new at your doorstep. For this reason, they hold only a 1-star rating.
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Cane Corso Dog Breed: Health and Grooming Needs
Overall, the Cane Corso is a sturdy breed with very few health conditions he may be prone to.
His smooth coat often sheds, thus brush him at least once every week to extract dead hair and maintain a healthy coat and skin.
Moreover, clean its ears and clip the nails as required. The Cane Corso doesn’t need regular baths unless only on occasions that he’s dirty.
This breed holds a 4-star rating for health and grooming needs. Let me take you through its attributes:
- Level of shedding: Cane Corsos shed averagely; thus, they hold 3 stars for shedding amount.
- Level of drooling: The Cane Corso drools a lot-he holds 4 stars for this quality. If drool spots put you off, you may want to consider a different dog breed.
- Grooming ease: Cane Corsos score 1 star for grooming demand. Their grooming is effortless, and you don't need the help of a professional groomer.
- Overall health: Cane Corsos are predominantly healthy dogs. Vet expenses won’t sky-rocket with this breed. They hence, hold 4 stars for general health. Some health conditions you’ll need to be acquainted with this breed include Hip Dysplasia, Arthritis, Entropion, Cherry Eye, Ectropion, Demodectic Mange, and Bloat.
- Weight gain potential: This breed scores 4 stars for weight gain ability. If you ignore your pet's dietary needs, he can quickly gain weight and become obese.
- Regulate unfit food and snacks and measure your Cane Corso’s weight frequently.
- Size: This dog is quite large and scores 4 stars for an average size, weighing up to 120 pounds.
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Cane Corso Dog Breed: Trainability
Training shouldn't be difficult with this breed, and they score 4 out of 5 stars for trainability.
The Cane Corso needs a firm pack leader who can direct him with assertiveness and consistency without applying coercion or harshness.
Start training as soon as you take your Cane Corso puppy home while still young before his size makes it easy to ignore you.
If you decide to adopt a pup from a dog shelter, it could be beneficial as you will find the Cane Corso is already trained.
Here are the main reasons that validate the Cane Corso’s 4-star rating in trainability:
- Training ease: With experience as a dog owner, you will find that training the Cane Corso is relatively easy. They score 4 stars for training ease and often find the link between actions and commands quickly.
- Intelligence level: Cane Corsos are reasonably intelligent and hold 3 stars for this. Patience is required for training this breed new tricks and orders, but it's worth the hustle.
- Mouthiness ability: This breed has a 4-star rating for mouthiness potential. They are highly likely to play-bite, herd, chew, or nip and need to be taught good behavior.
- Prey lust: Because of their hunting instincts, Cane Corsos have a high tendency to chase and catch smaller animals such as cats. It may not be the best idea to own a Cane Corso if you have a kitty. This breed scores 5 stars for its prey drive.
- Potential to bark or howl: Cane Corsos hardly bark or howl unless when bored or anxious. They hold 1 star for barking or howling ability and a perfect choice if you prefer a quiet dog breed.
- Potential to wander: As energetic as they are, it is surprising that Cane Corsos hardly escape exploring the world. They score only 2 stars for an impulse to wander or roam. They are more of domestic workers rather than escape artists.
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Cane Corso Dog Breed: Physical Needs
The Cane Corso has a higher than average activity level and scores 4 out of 5 stars for overall physical needs.
He always requires a job to do, which can be on-leash walking to daily training sessions.
You should be able to walk or jog him at least one mile every day apart from 20 minutes of training practice to keep him fit and away from destructive behavior such as chewing.
Below are the features that lead to the Cane Corso’s 4-star rating in physical demands:
- Energy level: Cane Corsos have a 4-star energy level rating. This means if you desire a snuggly pup for cuddling on the couch, sorry this breed is not ideal for you. Even the Cane Corso's face speaks more of the severe military than cute and cuddly!
- Intensity: This breed scores 3 stars for intensity; therefore, it is relatively vigorous.
- Exercise demand: The Cane Corso holds a 5-star rating for exercise needs. If you lead an active lifestyle, this breed is suitable for you as they are known for vitality and don't spend much time napping unless exhausted from a hard day's work.
- Playfulness potential: Cane Corsos are not among the most playful breeds, and for this, they score only 2 stars. They are more of the grave, no-nonsense type, but occasionally they enjoy playdates and such.
Vital Stats You Should Know About Cane Corsos
More Fun Facts About Cane Corsos
- Though Corsos are not vocal breeds, they enjoy communicating with their folks with “woo woo woo" sounds, snorts, and other socialization.
- The name Cane Corso is translated as a "body guard dog" in Latin. The Latin word “Canis" means dogs, and "Cohors” means bodyguard.
- If you enjoy the outdoor life, lucky for you, this dog can provide great accompaniment while still guarding you. The Cane Corso can trail you as you ride your bike or serve as a jogging buddy.
- This breed gives birth to averagely 6 puppies.
- The Cane Corso is one of the largest dog breeds in the world! They have a gigantic head that's only matched by a few other species, and their physique is humongous, sturdy and muscular.
- Viewing a well-maintained Cane Corso in direct sunlight is a glorious experience! Their black coat gleams in the light with every tight muscle bouncing off the sunbeams. They could look scary from a distance, but once you make eye contact- you see how harmless they are unless you mean harm yourself.
- While they are loving and devoted to their family, Cane Corsos are hard-headed and can quickly become bossy. They will often try to maintain dominance and want things done their way. Therefore, you need to be firm and set regulations from when the dog is still young.
- Generally, the Cane Corso is a peculiar looking pet with a heart as huge as its body, so don’t be fooled by its coarse exterior. Cane Corsos are simply as faithful and affectionate as any other breed.
What is the Origin of Cane Corso Dog Breeds
This Italian Molossian canine's origin dates back to an unrecognized time that neither historians nor archeologists can offer apparent validity. What we are sure of is that the Italian Cane Corso and the Neapolitan Mastiff both share the same hereditary.
According to some perspectives, the Italian Canine Cane Corso came from the large Molossian dogs of the Middle East that were highly common among Babylonians, Assyrians, Epirus Greeks, and imported in Europe by Phoenicians watchdogs.
Other dog breeds were added to the Italic peninsular by Romans, who took them after the military rally in Gallia: they crossbred Celtic and Molossian dogs.
Ancient Romans were mainly interested in breeding the Cane Corso breed for fighting and hunting and circus performance to combat lions, tigers, and bears. However, the most crucial role of these dogs was the war. Utilizing warfare canine was highly prevalent in previous centuries in various ways, such as by Spanish militants to kill South American Indians and recently, by the Italian army in the Italic Turkish war of 1912.
After the Roman Empire was overpowered, only a few nobility and cattle herders could afford to keep the Cane Corso. According to preferences, this breed was crossbred with the greyhound breed or the tenacious sheepdog to get a fiercer shepherd dog.
Cane Corsos were also widely used by butchers to keep their bulls in check prior slaughtering. They were also used as caretakers of pigs and sheep and to guard homesteads against spiteful people.
The preservation of the Cane Corso population was mostly implemented in South Italy in the 19th century by individuals who needed working dogs.
However, the year 1949, the breed was officially recognized, called initially "Mastino Napoletano," because Napoli's breeders claimed the right to be admitted entirely for preserving the species.
Unfortunately, the Cane Corso breed is artificially kept-breeders rely on artificial insemination, cesarean sections, and bottle feeding their puppies or sometimes using another female dog to wet nurse the litter. The natural mother often fails to provide her puppies because they lose their maternal instinct after several years of artificial breeding.
Being a relatively new breed in Australia, the Cane Corso was officially recognized by the Australian National Kennel Council (ANKC) in 2003.
Cane Corso Appearance
This ancient Italian large Molossus dog has a strong skeleton, filled with athletic muscles that glide with elegance and power.
Its massive head is attached to a rectangular body sealed by a short coat that comes in black, red, fawn, or gray.
The Cane Corso’s muzzle is deep-set and broad while his neck is muscular and slightly curved.
Its hair is short and often thickens during winter seasons. The ears may be cropped or uncropped.
In a glance, you should observe the following physical attributes of the Cane Corso:
- Eye Colour – Brown
- Nose Colour – Black; Brown
- Coat Colour – Black; Fawn; Red; Gray
- Coat Length – Medium
- Coat Density – Normal
- Coat Texture – Straight
What is the Average Size and Lifespan of The Cane Corso Breed
Cane Corsos are enormous, with the male weighing 99-110 pounds (45-50 kg) and the female 88-89 pounds (40-45kg).
They are also relatively tall- The male measures 24-27 inches (64-68 cm) and the female 23-25 inches (60-64 cm) from the shoulder.
A well-cared-for Cane Corso is robust, healthy, and lives up to its maximum life capacity of 10-12 years.
Knowing that some genetic conditions can affect the lifespan of your Cane Corso, you should only acquire a pup from a breeder you trust who assures you little or no chances of genetic disorders.
All About the Cane Corso Temperament And Personality
The Corso's chronicle depicts him as possessing a zealous temperament, ready to take on any challenge. This kind of character is a double-edged sword.
With an undeviating firm owner, who provides effective leadership and controls the dog's roaming, the Corso can be a magnificent family chap who applies just the right amount of aggressive, especially when keeping unwanted persons away.
An ideal Cane Corso is humble and affectionate but only towards his folks.
However, to get him to that point is no easy task. He requires adequate socialization and training from the puppy stage. This dog will not thrive in a home where people are afraid of handling dogs, particularly large ones, or dislike dogs.
The Corso is not only packed with brains, but also has a bossy nature, combine both qualities, and his already huge head seems gigantic. He deserves an equally dominative owner who can set strict boundaries and put him in his humble corner when needed.
It’s essential to let him know the house rules from the beginning and ensure all family members are acquainted with them.
To prevent your Cane Corso from getting spoilt, institute a "nothing comes for free" policy by having him obey an order such as "sit" before rewarding him with treats, a toy, or a meal.
Head-strong leadership does not mean you hit or lash at your dog. That only makes the dog more aggressive, which makes it dangerous with such a powerful canine.
The Corso is quite sensitive and understands tonal variations. He also responds well to appraises and rewards when he does a good job and rapid corrections and regular repeating of rules when he disobeys. Being poised, quiet, and self-aware will achieve more with this breed than angry bluster. Steadiness will enable the dog to relax as he knows you are the boss.
Build your young Corso's confidence by allowing him to have some solo time. This can be out in the yard or a safe confined space such as a kennel or his crate.
Being alone for some time will teach your pet that it's alright to be alone, and you will always get back to him.
Early socialization is essential for the Corso, and it should begin before he is four months old. Socialization aids in raising a well-rounded pup that's receptive to children, other pets, strangers, and can be left alone without having a meltdown. The more you socialize your Cane Corso, the less fearful and aggressive he becomes, and the better will distinguish between desirable and undesirable behaviors.
The Italian breed standard conveys that a Cane Corso should be indifferent when approached and should only respond when threatened.
Being a working breed, the Corso performs best under pressure-cooker environments. Any Corso who cannot work effectively under stressful levels has a faulty temperament for the species.
What Health Problems Are Cane Corsos Prone To?
Taking care of this breed not only involves feeding and grooming but also looking after your Cane Corso’s health.
The Corso is prone to hip dysplasia, eye conditions like ectropion, entropion, and cherry eye; the hereditary demodectic mange and gastric torsion, commonly known as bloat.
Expert breeders should have updated health clearances for the puppy’s parents to clear hip dysplasia and eye disease.
An eye examination is performed by a board-certified veterinary ophthalmologist and the results submitted to the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals together with Pennhip assessment of the hips.
You can also confirm health clearances by going through the Canine Health Information Center website.
You can enquire if any of your breeder’s canines have experienced mange or bloat.
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Cherry Eye
Cherry Eye, which is prevalent in Cane Corsos, involves the plunging of the nictating membrane's tear-duct. It is a genetic condition; therefore, dogs with this disease should not be bred.
The third eyelid gland becomes engorged and protrudes from the eyelid, thus having a cherry-fruit appearance.
While this health issue isn’t necessarily painful, exposure of the swollen tear duct leaves the eye vulnerable to infection or damage.
The standard treatment for Cherry Eye is putting the dislodged gland back in place either by making a "pocket" next to the gland's initial position and tucking the gland there or positioning it inside the orbital rim.
Proficient breeders often extract the prolapsed gland themselves, which is less painful and less costly than the tacking procedure. The removal process can be performed with or without anesthesia in only minutes.
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Demodectic Mange
Demodectic Mange is a health condition caused by mites known as Demodex. These mites are found on every canine, but they become troublesome if the pup has a low immune system and cannot fight the parasites.
Local demodicosis usually occurs in young pups below 12 months of age and disappears again. In this case, you will observe bold spots on the front legs and face but no itching.
General demodicosis affects young and mature dogs and usually covers more significant regions of the body. In some instances, this condition can be so severe and painful that the canine has to be euthanized. However, 90% of affected dogs can be symptom-free again.
Demodectic Mange is one of the most challenging skin conditions to treat and often very unbearable for the victim dog. A canine is declared healthy after at least two negative tests taken within a month.
The condition is diagnosed through skin scraping. The state is inherited recessive; therefore, both parents have to be carriers of the gene for a puppy to be affected.
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Entropion/ Ectropion
These conditions cause a dog's eyelid to turn inward, injure, or gall the eyeball and develop when the pup is 6 months.
The conditions affect one or both eyes, and the infected dog always rubs his eyes. Severe entropion or ectropion is treated surgically when the dog is full-grown.
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Hip Dysplasia
Hip Dysplasia is a deformity of the hip joint, which causes a shallow hip socket leading to arthritis and cartilage damage.
The joint is unsteady, which leads to limping, and pain and the symptoms accelerate with age.
Severe Hip Dysplasia is characterized by complete joint deformity and treatable by euthanasia despite the dog’s age.
The condition is diagnosed through the x-ray to determine its severity level.
Genetic or environmental factors cause hip dysplasia. A puppy has a higher risk of having Hip Dysplasia if one or both parents have the condition.
It is crucial you X-ray your Corso when it is 12-18 months of age and informs your breeder about the result.
Apart from the standard HD x-ray, you should have a PennHip x-ray performed, which can be done as early as 16 weeks of age.
The PennHip x-ray determines how loose the hip joint is and the dog's risk of developing arthritis later on. These x-rays are sent to the U.S.A for evaluation, and only authorized veterinarians may perform the x-rays.
Many factors can cause Hip Dysplasia in a dog, ranging from his upbringing. A puppy must only be fed dog food meant for puppies and later on for young pups.
You should only feed your Cane Corso food meant for large breeds. If you decide to cook the doggie's diet, you should know your puppy's nutrient requirement, which varies for adult dogs.
Additionally, your Corso pup should remain healthy and fit throughout his life because unwanted weight gain increases its risk of developing Hip Dysplasia.
The amount and type of physical exercise will impact the development of your pup's hip joints. Up to 18 months, all cardio and strength exercises are not required (e.g., jogging, bag carrying, weight pull, cycling, etc.).
However, it would help if you did not restrain your doggie from obvious physical exercises such as walking on and off-leash, trotting up and down the stairs, playing, jumping, etc.
Note that the Cane Corso is a large dog, and thus monotonous overly long workouts will stress its joints more than smaller dog breeds.
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Gastric Torsion (Bloat)
The condition is known as 'bloat' in lay man's term. It is a critical condition that impacts large canines with deep-set chests, mainly if fed one principal meal a day, provide too quickly and consume great gallops of water rapidly or exercise strenuously after a meal.
Bloat takes place when the tummy is filled with gas or air and then contorts. When it occurs, the dog has problems belching or vomiting to relieve himself of excess gas in his stomach, and blood circulation in the heart is disrupted. Therefore, blood pressure reduces, the dog falls into shock, and without prompt first aid, the dog may die.
Symptoms of bloating include:
- bulging abdomen
- excessive drooling
- gagging without vomiting
- restlessness
- lethargy
- depression
- body weakness with an abnormally high heart rate.
If you note these signs, rush your pup to the vet immediately.
How To Take Care of Cane Corso Dogs
This is the most crucial stage that distinguishes just a dog owner from an exceptional one.
While Cane Corsos may not demand much grooming, you need to factor in their dietary needs and their everlasting demand for exercise.
With appropriate feeding, grooming, exercise, and training, Cane Corsos not only live to their maximum life potential but also provide you unending affection and guardianship.
Feeding Your Cane Corso
Cane Corsos demand a robust nutritional foundation established or richly nutriment from ingredients such as nutritious vegetables and high-quality meat. They require carbs, fat, and protein in balanced levels.
Like any other dog breed, Cane Corsos benefit from unprocessed foods. The more the diet is processed, the more it loses its supplementary gusto, demanding more synthetic supplements and vitamins.
When selecting commercial dog food, you should always look out for those who lack artificial flavours, preservatives, and colors and seek diets that feature meat as their primary ingredients (no by-products or fillers or corn).
I have listed below some of the best large dog foods you will find essential throughout your Corso’s life.
If raw food is your style but are unsure of the quality of commercial natural foods for canines in the market, you can depend on Ziwi Peak’s.
This recipe features the best lean protein and nutrients from New Zealand's venison's goodness consisting of heart, kidneys, liver, meat, lungs, and tripe.
All this protein sustenance coupled with EPA and DHA endowment of fish and New Zealand muscles makes Ziwi Peak an absolute winner when offering your Cane Corso the best.
You don't have to fret about antibiotics, grains, and sugars present in many other less desirable products. This recipe is entirely air-dried to seal in all the nutrients of the natural food sources.
More of Ziwi Peak’s distinct features include:
- It contains 263 calories per scoop.
- Crude fat content: 26%
- Natural protein factor: 34%
- Fiber and water percentage: 1.8% and 14% respectively
- It packs essential fatty acids, amino acids, minerals, chondroitin, vitamins, and glucosamine.
This will undoubtedly become your dog's favorite meal. It has a big kibble size filled with nutrients and ideal meat, perfect for guaranteeing your large darling's optimum well-being.
It is also fortified with antioxidants, omega fatty acids, and probiotics for adequate digestion.
Obtaining its protein from turkey and chicken, this good-renowned dog food supplies readily available amino acids for your Cane Corso's muscular body. Simultaneously, the incorporation of a Well Flex system strengthens your pet’s joints to support its enormous weight.
There is no speck of fillers or unwanted by-products present in this recipe. It is the supreme dog food for your Corso.
Take a look at more of its features:
- It packs 346 calories per scoop.
- Crude protein factor: 34%
- Fiber and moisture content: 6% and 10% respectively
- Natural fat percentage: 12%
- Its 5 primary ingredients include potatoes, real chicken meat, chicken meals, turkey, and peas.
- It is fortified with minerals, chondroitin, prebiotics, vitamins, glucosamine, essential fatty acids, probiotics, and amino acids.
If you have several Cane Corsos at home at different life stages, this CANIDAE formula will come in handy as it is suitable for puppies, adults, and senior dogs.
This multi-protein recipe features lamb, real chicken, ocean fish, and turkey in addition to salmon oil and a wide selection of fruits and vegetables. This dog food is specially crafted for your furry friend's health detail.
It is a one-diet serves all types of dog food that spares you the hassle of transitioning your darling every time he advances to a new stage.
The formula treats your pet to a smorgasbord of tastes and wholesome nutrients required for development throughout your dog’s lifespan.
There's no need to guess second if you're feeding your pup the right food with CANIDAE.
Other notable features of this diet include:
- It contains 468 calories per scoop.
- It is packed with amino acids, chondroitin, essential fatty acids, glucosamine, minerals, prebiotics, probiotics, and vitamins.
- Its key ingredients are brown and white rice, real chicken, lamb meals, and turkey.
- Fiber and moisture content: 4% and 10%, respectively.
- Crude protein content: 24%
- Natural fat percentage: 14.5%
Emphasizing your Corso's digestive and immune system, this Holistic Select formula offers the best of all fresh ingredients without utilizing artificial ingredients, by-products, or fillers.
Capitalizing on live yoghurt cultures and digestive juices, this dog food takes excellent care of your doggie's digestion keeping in mind the crucial role this body system has in the digestion and distribution of nutrients to every living fiber within your Cane Corso.
It is fortified with a mesh-work of prebiotics and probiotics contained in every kibble.
I don't think you need to search further for your Corso pup's best dog food when Holistic Select has already got you covered!
It’s other important features are:
- It contains amino acids, chondroitin, vitamins, probiotics, glucosamine, prebiotics, minerals, digestive enzymes, and essential fatty acids.
- 392 calories per scoop.
- Fiber to moisture ratio is 3.9% to 10%.
- Crude protein factor: 24%
- Natural fat percentage: 14%
- Its primary ingredients are chicken meal, chicken fat, oats, oatmeal, and rice.
Fromm Family's Gold now has a puppy recipe to offer. It contains the same ingredients as the adult formula. It is still packed with more proteins and calories to fortify your young Corso's high demand for energy and muscle and organ development needs.
Graded as supreme dog food for a growing Cane Corso, this recipe also supplies Wisconsin cheese that offers gut-friendly enzymes suitable for your pup's tummy and probiotics to maximize digestion and intake of every last nutrient required to grow into a well-rounded adult Corso.
Its amino acids assure proper tissue development while its tantalizing taste is a factor that will capture your puppy to eat to its heart content.
In summary, the following are the formulation's features;
- Crude fat content: 14%
- Crude protein percentage: 25%
- Fiber and moisture content: 5.5% and 10%
- 384 calories per scoop
- Features DHA, prebiotics, minerals, vitamins, probiotics, essential fatty acids, and amino acids.
- The top 5 ingredients are oats, chicken meat, broth, meal, and pearled barley.
How Much and How Often to Feed Cane Corso
Dog specialists recommend feeding a Cane Corso youngster 3-6 times a day, gradually advancing their serving twice a day.
Adult Cane Corsos can be fed once a day, and experienced breeders advocate for that.
Most commercial dog foods usually include a feeding guide on their packages; thus, you should be sorted.
Below is one feeding guide that will help you get started from the time your Cane Corso is a young pup.
Daily Feeding Guide
A mature Cane Corso that weighs 100 pounds needs approximately 2,200 calories every day. This is for an energetic Corso (not been spayed or neutered). If your pup is sterilized, it only requires 1960 calories a day.
A 15 pound Corso youngster only needs 590 calories a day.
Protein is a crucial aspect of a canine's diet, especially for a Cane Corso because it needs macronutrient for the development and continued growth of muscles and other essential elements of its body such as hormones, structural proteins, blood, immune system cells among others.
The AAFCO advocates for at least 22% protein for young pups and 18% for adults.
Fats are also critical for your Corso's health, particularly omega-3 fatty acids essential for brain and eye development are puppies throughout the dog's lifespan.
Chondroitin and glucosamine continue to play a crucial role in the sustenance of large dog breeds, particularly those susceptible to hip dysplasia, a prevalent condition among Cane Corsos.
Grooming Your Cane Corso
If grooming is not your strongest suit, you’re lucky because Cane Corsos require minimal grooming effort. You don't need to hire pet grooming services unless when seeking a few pointers.
However, there are a few hygiene details you need to attend to for a healthier and polished Cane Corso pup.
Bathing: If you plan to bathe your Corso regularly, accustom him to his puppy stage experience. Give your Corso weekly baths, while training him to obey the command "bath," so he learns to anticipate and appreciate it. Also, offer your pup lots of praise and rewards after every bath to sweeten the deal.
Teeth brushing: Like humans, dogs need consistent brushing to eliminate tartar stains and prevent the buildup of bacteria that cause bad breath. Brush your Corso's teeth twice or thrice weekly, but daily brushing produces the best results.
Nail Trimming: Trim your doggies nails once or twice every month if he doesn’t file them naturally. If you can hear them clicking on the floor as he strolls, it is a sign that they need to be shortened.
Remember that dog nails have blood vessels, thus cutting too far in can result in bleeding, and the dog may not cooperate the next time you take out the nail clippers.
Ear Cleaning: Inspect the ears every week for signs of infection such as odour or redness. Wipe them clean using a cotton ball moistened with a PH-balanced dog ear cleaning solution to protect the ears from infection. Don't insert the cotton ball into the ear canal but only clean the outer part.
Essential Grooming Tools for the Cane Corso
- Wooden Bristle brush – It helps to keep your dog’s hair and skin in good condition.
- Rubber curry brush or grooming glove – They are designed to remove loose fur and debris from the topcoat, thus reducing shedding.
- Slicker brush – It penetrates the dog's coat to extract loose hair, dirt, and debris that accumulate, leading to mats' formation.
- Natural shampoo
- Cotton balls
- Dog ear cleaning solution
- Nail trimmer
- Dog-friendly toothbrush and toothpaste
Exercising and Training Your Cane Corso
This working dog requires plenty of exercises to remain fit and lean. Schedule brisk walks or jogs or a combination of both for at least one mile every day (in the morning and evening).
If you like to cycle, arrange for an attachment so your Corso can tag alongside you. This will be a fun activity for both you and your pup.
Go easy on younglings in the puppy stage. Their musculoskeletal system is still developing until they are approximately 18 months of age. So though they need walks to help burn off extra energy, such walks should be shorter and less agile.
Cane Corsos always need to be busy to keep them mentally stimulated.
This breed's job opportunities include herding livestock, learning tricks, getting involved in a dog sport, or practicing obedience proficiency.
Allocate at least 20 minutes every day for such activities. It is okay to split the time: 10 minutes in the morning and 10 minutes in the evening.
Never permit a Corso to run wild and free while unsupervised or unrestrained.
A high-security fence is mandatory; however, an electric fence will not restrain him from escaping if he decides to, and it won't prevent the next-door cat or dog from being Corso meat if they wander into your yard.
Most importantly, be prepared for the massive pile of bills that come with owning a large dog breed.
There will be more and massive poops to scoop, and essential procedures like neuter/spay surgery are costlier for large dogs than for small breeds.
If your Cane Corso requires surgery for whatever reason, the anesthesia bill will skyrocket because he needs more of it than a smaller breed and more pain medication after surgery.
Lastly, there are training class fees, enrolling fees for dog sports, and boarding or pet-sitting costs when you travel.
Don’t overlook any of these expenses when considering a Cane Corso because they are inevitable for 10 to 12 years.
Are Cane Corsos Great with Children and Other Pets?
Are well socialized and trained Corso can be loving and protective of kids.
Take note; however, Corso puppies and adult dogs should not be allowed to chase children, and kids should refrain from making high-pitched noises in the dog's presence. Running and screaming may prompt the Cane Corso to associate kids with prey, which can be extremely dangerous.
Keep the Corso confined preferable in his crate when children are playing outdoors and making lots of noises (particularly if they have friends over). The pup may perceive that his family kids need protection, which is unlikely to end on a good note.
A proper way for your kids and your doggie to interact is by having them play Fetch or holding the leash when you take dog walks.
The Cane Corso may get used to other dog breeds and cats if he is raised with them, but he will likely see new pet animals as prey and pursue to kill them. If your neighbor has a pet, it's essential to protect them from your Corso.
In this case, socialization comes in handy. Your Cane Corso should learn to remain unperturbed by other pets from an early age.
If you decide to have another dog, either a different breed or another Corso, it is best to select one of the opposite genders.
Australian Based Breed Organizations for Cane Corsos
There are so many considerations you should make before acquiring your eagerly awaited pet. First, you must find a suitable breeder, decide whether you want a male or female pup, and determine whether a puppy or an adult pet is right for you. Taking the time to implement such decisions is crucial for both you and your furry friend.
In deciding between a young pup or an adult Cane Corso, there are some questions you should ask yourself:
- Am I fully equipped to train a puppy?
- How much time do I have available for training, grooming, and exercise?
- Can I spend sufficient time with my puppy for the majority of the day and night?
The next step is where to buy your Cane Corso pet. There is a wide range of options to consider, and I have listed some of the most reputable Cane Corso breeders in Australia.
While probably the costliest choice, obtaining a Corso from a breeder is usually the best option if you desire a purebred pup.
A good breeder should provide you with the puppy's health guarantee and a detailed history of the breed.
Most breeders interview interested candidates and often visit their homes before agreeing to transfer a puppy’s ownership.
The breeder should encourage you to examine the litter pup severally before selecting the right puppy for you.
They should also provide you with a list of recommendations on food, local veterinarians, trainers, possible health issues with the breed, and other areas of interest.
Before visiting your chosen Cane Corso breeder, it is crucial to seek information on the line of canines they are breeding and any critical health information on the breeding parents.
Equally important, conduct research both on the breed and the line the puppies are bred from. Reaching out to other breeders who develop the same type of dogs or a reputable breeding association may come in handy.
Acquiring this information before visiting a breeder is crucial, as it is effortless to get caught up in the exhilaration of having a new pup.
Below is a list of the most reliable Cane Corso breeders in Australia:
- ITACOR breeders
- Thore Cane Corso Australia
- Teodoracorso Kennels
- Armorcor Cane Corso
- Allevatore Cane Corso
- Red Gladiator Kennels
- Renombre Cane Corso
- Nakoa Kennels
- Firebright Cane Corso
- Bullochet Kennels
- IMPAVIDICOR
- Kylasha Kennels
You can judge a good breeder by how he handles his breeds and how effectively he answers any question you pose to him concerning the breed.
Breeders that are apprehensive about developing the breed and who devote their attention to each puppy are often more than glad to answer your queries and inquiries.
They will also want to question you before deciding if you are the right fit for their puppy.
As a buyer, your priority should be to obtain the following data from the Cane Corso breeder:
- Does the breeder have a credible purchase contract that outlines a health guarantee and a policy for refund or return?
- Does the breeder have the puppy’s parents? If not, does he have the parents’ details?
- Can the breeder offer a descent chart for the puppy that goes back several generations?
- Will the breeder allow you to see other kennel puppies, and is the habitat hygienic, well maintained, and canine-friendly?
- Are you able to see other adult Cane Corso dogs and puppies that the breeder has while interacting?
- Is the breeder recognized by the local, state, or national breed club or organization?
- How does the breeder enable the female and male parents to reproduce?
A credible Cane Corso breeder considers his puppies' health and safety and will only allow sincere buyers to hold, touch, and carry the puppies. If you are just seeking more information about the breed, you may only view them from afar and perhaps interact with the mature dogs.
A breeder may also regulate your interaction time with the puppies at any set time, even if you are looking to buy.
If you are purchasing from a breeder for the first time, you may feel overwhelmed by the endless questions and requests he may pose. Don't worry, as this is the breeder's way to ensure his puppy will be well cared for and maintained once it is sold.
Answering the breeder’s inquisitions and implementing any recommended upgrades will enhance your chances of acquiring a beloved Corso puppy.
The Cane Corso breeder may ultimately ask the following questions:
- How big are your house and yard? The breeder may ask to inspect your home as well.
- What do you intend to do with the dog? The breeder may request that you have your pet neutered or spayed or only breed to canines he approves of.
- If you have other pets, the breeder may request for their history. You may be needed to sign a consensus on how you will socialize your pup.
- The breeder may ask about your family's schedule and situation and may seek to know how many individuals will be in constant interaction with the pup. Additionally, if you have kids, their ages will be required.
- The breeder may recommend you enroll for training lessons or use a specific training method.
- In case you purchase a Corso, and the ownership doesn't work out, the breeder may ask to have the puppy back rather than surrender it or sell it to someone else.
The more data you gather from the breeder and the more the breeder acquires from you, the better the match.
Finally, attending dog events and shows may help you spot a breeder you would like to work with.
Rescue Groups for Cane Corsos in Australia
If you would like to own a Cane Corso but lack time to socialize and train a puppy, consider the option of adopting an adorable adult pup from a rescue home.
These shelters offer loving homes for abandoned dogs neglected by their owners for different reasons, some even outrageous such as heavy panting or tongue removal.
All Cane Corsos from rescue homes will be neutered or spayed and will have received all the required vaccinations and vet inspections.
The rescue organization will also recommend Cane Corso- friendly services near your home.
Usually, the shelter will permit you to handle the dogs they have available for adoption, which will allow you to assess their behaviour and personality.
Often rescue homes agree to reclaim the dog if it fails to adjust to the new family or environment.
Many adult pups are already trained, which is a great asset when you don’t want the whole training hustle.
When acquiring a Cane Corso from a rescue group, ensure to check the following:
- Acquire as much detail as possible about the dog.
- Ensure the pet has had a veritable check-up and that vaccinations are contemporary.
- Does the dog look healthy and vibrant?
- Inquire if the dog has any behavioral concerns like barking or feeding.
- Is it possible to return the pet and choose another incase the adoption fails to work out as planned?
That said, you can have a look at the rescue shelters listed below:
Concluding Lines on Cane Corso Dog Breeds
Cane Corsos are exceptional family companions- they are our four-legged bodyguards. If you have a house with a yard, it is best for this breed.
They are working severe dogs who have a big heart for their human family!
So did you find this guide to be helpful?
If YES, are you riled up for the challenge of raising a Cane Corso pup? Share your feedback with us. We’ll be more than glad to read your views.
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