ABOUT THE BREED
The Cane Corso is a direct descendant of the Roman Dog of War, Canis Pugnax - which
was bred for a specific purpose.  The Army required that they be a strong, loyal, durable,
athletic dog of virtual fearlessness.

They are closely related to the Neapolitan Mastiff, but Corso dogs are much lighter and
far more athletic than their wrinkly cousin.  

Throughout the Middle Ages, the couragous Cane Corso's powerful and agile build proved
to be of great use to hunters of wild boar, bear, and other large animals.

They were used by the butchers of the time to keep wild animals, other dogs, and even
hungry thieves at bay during the cutting and processing of game.  Farmers used the dogs in
much the same manner while transporting their farm animals to market.

The loyal protectors were also used to accompany stagecoaches and couriers to ward off
thieves that sought to rob them. They were, and still are today, a well tempered guard dog
by nature.  The Cane Corso will protect it's owner and property from all forms of predators
should the need arise.  They are seemingly aware of a child's innocence and will protect the
child from those that seek to harm it.

The Cane Corso is usually very quiet around the house until they sense the presence of an
outsider.  Upon their master's approval however, they will permit friends and welcomed
guests into the home.  I always shake a friends hand in front of my dogs and say, "this is a
friend".  Cane Corsos are highly intelligent dogs!  They do understand when I am being
accepting of someone they do not know. They will remain watchful of strangers though,
until these people have fully  gained their trust.

They are not the type of dog that likes to wander far from their home, like a retriever,
hound, or terrier may be inclined to do.

The vast majority of all adult Cane Corsos that you'll see are very mellow, confident, and
dignified in the way in which they interact with the world.

While puppies certainly have a great deal of energy, as the breed matures, they are in no
way, shape, or form a high strung breed.  This is not to say that don't require daily
exercise, they certainly do!
They are very "chill" adults though.  They are not all up your face for no reason at all.  
They like to find a quiet spot around the house and make it their own.
I sometimes let my dogs up into bed with me because they are very light shedders and they
lay down and behave themselves.  

Cane Corsos are a highly intelligent and ultra trainable breed.  They are well suited to be
a real working dog and are already starting to fill positions in law enforcement once held by
German Shepherds and other breeds.

The first Cane Corsos did not arrive in the United States until the late 1980's. They are
quickly gaining popularity as loyal family pets, working class dogs, and protectors of estates.
As the breed continues to a find admirers across the country, first time Corso owners should
pay special attention to the source of their new puppy.  Special attention should be given to
the dog's pedigree, temperament, physical conformation, performance, hip scores, and
over-all health.