About the Breed
The Cane Corso (pronounced KAH-nay KOR-so) is a majestic Italian breed with a rich history as a multi-purpose farm dog, hunter, devoted family and protector. Known for their powerful build and intelligent gaze, these dogs are as gentle as they are strong, and they form deep emotional bonds with their loved ones.
Many people believe that the name Cane Corso comes from the latin "cohors", meaning guardian, but it is likely that the name in fact refers to a coursing dog, meaning to hunt using sight rather than scent. Throughout the breed's history, they have been used to hunt large game, protect straw stacks, drive animals to market and guard the homestead.
Appearance
The Cane Corso is a large, muscular breed, with males typically standing over 25 inches at the shoulder and weighing 50 kg or more, while females are slightly smaller at over 23 inches and 45 kg or more. Many dogs are substantially larger than this, some slightly smaller - the key to functionality is that the dog is in balance throughout. The breed’s correct colours include black, fawn, red, grey (including lighter "blue"), and brindle and always with a black (or grey, on grey or fawn dogs) mask. Merle is not a recognised or acceptable colour in the Cane Corso and no purebred Cane Corso will ever present in a merle colour.
The ICCGB (Italian Cane Corso GB) promotes the preservation of natural ears and tails, in alignment with UK animal welfare laws. However, cropped and docked dogs with valid documentation (e.g., from countries where these practices are legal) are welcome to compete in our shows.
What is the breed like?
The Cane Corso is steady, purposeful and devoted. An incredibly capable breed who is a rewarding member of the family, the Cane Corso is stoic with strangers while exuberant, goofy and loving with family.
Working Breed
Bred as a versatile farm working dog, they are stoic workers, alert and confident. Their natural reservedness means they assess situations thoughtfully. They may display prey drive, as a hunting and working breed, so owners should be prepared for this. The Cane Corso has a huge personality, but they won't show this to everyone. Their true goofy nature is reserved for their close circle only, while appearing aloof and unreadable to strangers.
Devoted to their family
A well-bred Corso is highly attuned to their family, forming an almost intuitive connection with their handlers. They thrive on structure, clear leadership, and meaningful work—whether that’s sport work, watching over livestock, accompanying you on a hike, or simply keeping a quiet vigil at home. Their exercise needs are reasonably high but owners should take care not to over-exercise puppies due to joint growth.
Correct Behaviour
In public, a properly socialised Corso should be self-assured but neutral: indifferent to distractions, polite with strangers, and never timid or confrontational. At their core, they are profoundly loyal—their devotion is quiet but absolute. They express affection through steadfast presence, often leaning into their owners or following room to room. This is a dog that loves deeply and respects boundaries when raised with consistency and understanding.
What should new owners look for when getting this breed?
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Whether rescuing or purchasing a puppy, it's important that you are dealing with a reliable source. You need to know everything that they know about this dog - if a rescue or private rehome, the background is important as well as any quirks that may need professional training. We always recommend a relationship with a good and reliable trainer throughout the course of your dog's life. If you're buying a puppy, please visit our puppy buying guide to know exactly what to look for.
Proper Training & Socialisation
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Whether rehoming an older dog, or bringing home a puppy, it's important to consider training and socialisation. Socialisation is not greeting every person, dog or animal that they see and this will lead to barrier frustration and over-excitement. All dogs should be exposed safely to many different environments, and allowed to observe without being forced to interact. The Cane Corso is also deeply emotional and take things to heart - there is no need for heavy handedness. The Cane Corso thrives on mutual understanding and respect. Owners should always obey the law and have their dogs under control.
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Lifelong Health & Wellbeing
As a working breed, the Cane Corso has relatively high exercise needs when considering a large or giant breed. They should be fed a well balanced diet - this can be balanced raw or a good quality kibble. Home-cooked diets are not recommended, as this breed has specific growth and nutrition requirements, but fresh food toppers such as vegetables, fresh meat and bone broth are fantastic additions to their diet. There are relatively few health concerns with this breed so long as their physical condition is kept well, including adequate weight (lean and well muscled, not skinny or overweight) and correct nutrition. However, there are some health conditions to be aware of - see our health page for more.
Mental wellbeing is also very important. Your Cane Corso should be kept active, physically and mentally, with enrichment, stimulation, training and fun. This breed loves to play with trusted people, and enjoy training and learning new things.
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