::Breedstandard::       ::History and character::

 

There is a lot of uncertainty of the origin of its name but for the population in the South of Italy it has always been "Cane Corso" or "Cors", a dialect name used in some parts, particularly Puglia, which means robust.  You could also trace it to the Latin word "cohors" which describes him as "body guard".  This probably suggests the utilizzation for which he best adapted.

With domestication for utilitary uses, he had in time gone through changes in conformation physically and mentally.  Between various typologies of dogs, it can be confirmed that "Cane Corso" descends from the molosoide.  A dog who demonstrated a very strong and robust form who went into acts of combat.

The use of the breed was very diversified, primarlily used for guarding property and protecting cattle against wolves and cattle thieves.  For decades Cane Corso was used for hunting large game such as wild boar, wolf and bear, an activity very popular among the nobles.  Usually, they used both Segugio (traker dogs) and Cane Corso together.  The breed had an optimum hunting instict and would bring back a good meal for the shepherds.  He was also popular amongst drivers who transported goods through Italy.  The dog would run along side the horse and cart and protect against highwaymen.

During this century, as agricultural production modernised, the need for this breed decreased, numbers of the population fell drastically and become more rare.  From the 1950's up to the early 1980's Cane Corso was kept alive by just a few shepherds and farmers in isolated parts of Southern  Italy.

Cane Corso was inevitably considered to have had, since remote times, a great importance to man which led to the recontruction of the breed.  A dog which surely is the most antique domesticated animal that, in the course of milleniums, achieved a position of priviledge in the human community that was reached by no other animal.

Mental Characterisics

Alert, attentive, protective and of stable mind. The disposition of this breed makes it an attractive one. Cane Corsos make formidable family guardians, loyal pets and highly trainable working animals. They should be submissive to it's family, yet suspicious and threatening to strangers. They are physical, but gentle with children and do best in situations where they can be part of a family or used in day-to-day working situations. This breed does not do well if it has too much idle time to spend. Because they are an active breed, they can become destructive if boredom sets in. Although Corsos can run large in size, they make great house animals. These dogs just want to be around people. They can adapt well to most housing situations and usually stay very close to their property, not wandering from home. Cane Corsos require lots of exercise to stay happy and healthy. At times, they can be highly excitable or stubborn, so early socialization, backed up with positive reinforcement and obedience training is highly recommended.