The Cane Corso is a breed of dog that originated in Sicily, Italy.  A classic, Mastiff-like dog, the Cane Corso has traditionally been used mostly as a guard dog and with livestock.




Cane Corsos are heavy, robust dogs that weigh between 80-140 pounds and are between 22-28 inches tall.  They have a short, harsh coat that can be any variety of colors; mostly shades of black and fawn, and can include brindles.  Where legal the tail of a Cane Corso is generally docked and the ears are cropped short and close to the head. 


It is likely the Cane Corso is a more recent recreation of the Cane di Macellaio, an old Italian herding breed.  These dogs were commonly used to drive cattle to the butchers and as guard dogs.  It is believed the Cane Corso also shares a common ancestry with the Neapolitan Mastiff, a Roman war dog known as the “Canis Pugnax”.


Cane Corsos are for the most part easy to train and good with children.  They are calm and stable towards their families, but can be reserved and aggressive with strangers and other dogs.  Cane Corsos need to be socialized young, consistent training, and an experienced handler. 


Most Cane Corsos live between 9-11 years.  They are generally healthy, but can have bone and joint problems common in large breeds, such as hip dysplasia.

The Cane Corso can live in an apartment as long as they get plenty of exercise, but do best with a yard.  They are active and athletic and make great jogging partners; at the very least they need a long walk daily.

The short coat of a Cane Corso requires very little grooming.  They shed very little and only need to be brushed to remove dead hair.