Breeds

Are you looking for a dog that’s loyal, powerful, and totally majestic? Well, then, meet the Cane Corso, which is also known as the Italian Mastiff. It is lovingly called the King Corso by fans of this strong and stunning breed. The Cane Corso is more than just a big dog. This breed offers you great loyalty, a towering presence, and a heart full of devotion. Therefore, getting a Cane Corso is like adding a furry friend that’s a guardian, a best friend, and a natural-born protector all rolled into one. In this blog, our experts at EcoPetEssentials will walk you through everything you need to know about this impressive breed. You’ll get an overview of its personality and training, nutrition, grooming, and common health issues. And of course, we’ll answer one of the most searched questions: How long do Cane Corso dogs live?

Meet the Cane Corso: Big, Bold, and Brilliant

The Cane Corso dog (pronounced KAH-nay KOR-so) is an ancient and powerful breed with deep roots tracing back to both Greece and Rome. The name “Cane Corso” literally translates to “bodyguard dog” in Latin. These dogs were once used not only to protect homes and farms but also to march fearlessly into battle alongside soldiers.

• Weight: Cane Corso dogs tend to range between 90 to 120+ pounds.
• Height: The dogs can reach up to 28 inches at the shoulder.
• Appearance: These dogs have a muscular build, a large head, and deeply expressive eyes.

The Cane Corso is a bold and reliable companion that brings both strength and heart to any home lucky enough to have one.

Temperament: Serious but Sweet

The Italian Corso dog has a personality that’s equal parts strong and sensitive. It is a breed that is known for being confident, alert, and deeply affectionate with its family members. These dogs may look intimidating at first glance. However, you’ll be glad to know that despite their muscular frame, they are quite fun to have around. Their natural instincts make them protective and watchful, especially around the people they care about most. However, if you don’t provide proper training early on, a Cane Corso may try to take charge of the household. That’s why it’s so important for you to establish leadership with consistent, positive reinforcement from the start. These dogs tend to do best with older children. With you as a confident and kind guide, the Italian Mastiff temperament truly shines. 

Corso Cane Dog Breed Health Care:

Are you wondering about Cane Corso health issues? While generally healthy, they’re prone to certain conditions due to their size and genetics.

Common problems include:

• Obesity: As the Cane Corso dog is a big animal, you have to keep your Can Corso active and give it a balanced diet. 
• Hip/Elbow Dysplasia: It is important that you watch out for any signs of limping or stiffness.
• Idiopathic Epilepsy: You also have to watch out for any seizures that can begin around age 3.
• Demodectic Mange: You have to keep an eye on skin issues from mites (not contagious!)
• Eyelid Conditions: The Cane Corso dogs have issues like cherry eye, entropion, and ectropion.
• Bloat & GDV: This issue can be a serious emergency where the stomach twists.

Lifespan of a Cane Corso Mastiff

The Cane Corso’s life expectancy is 9–12 years, which is decent for a large breed. Genetics, health care, and diet all play a part in this. Therefore, if you’re asking, “How long does a Cane Corso live?” or googling “lifespan of a Cane Corso Mastiff,” the answer is around a decade, with proper care.

What Is Heartgard® for the Cane Corso Breed?

Heartgard® is a monthly, vet-prescribed medication used to protect dogs like Cane Corso from heartworm disease. It contains ivermectin, which kills the early stages of heartworms. Heartgard® Plus adds pyrantel to treat and prevent roundworms and hookworms, too. The best part is that both forms are chewable and can be given with or without food, though food may help with absorption. It’s important your pet chews the tablet fully. If a dose is missed or not fully consumed, redosing may be needed. As Cane Corsos are large and active dogs, for them heartworm disease can be especially dangerous due to their size and how the disease affects the heart and lungs. You have to talk to your vet about any side effects, heartworm testing, and safe use.

Feeding Your Cane Corso:

Feeding your King Cane Corso dogs isn’t as simple as dumping kibble into a bowl. Larger breeds need more nutrition and care. Therefore, you have to feed them a diet that keeps their muscles strong and helps prevent bloat. You can try these tips:

• Feed smaller meals (2–3 times a day).
• No eating right before or after exercise, as it can induce involuntary vomiting due to exertion. 
• You have to stick to an AAFCO-approved diet for large breeds.
• It is a good idea to add joint supplements like glucosamine or fish oil if recommended. 

Pro tip: You can ask your vet for feeding advice based on your dog’s weight and age.

Training, Enrichment, and Grooming Tips for Your Cane Corso

Cane Corsi (yes, that’s the correct plural of Cane Corso) are incredibly intelligent dogs that thrive when they have a job or task to focus on. Without enough mental and physical stimulation, they can easily get bored, which may lead to unwanted behaviors like digging, barking, or jumping. This working breed does best with consistent activity that challenges both their mind and body.

Mental and Physical Enrichment

• Obedience Training: Cane Corsi are smart and eager to learn. You have to teach them basic obedience, which builds discipline, improves your bond, and prevents bossy behavior.
• Scent Walks: You have to let your dog sniff during walks. It’s a natural way to reduce stress and can improve mental stimulation.
• Agility Courses: To keep your Corso fit, focused, and confident, you can use tunnels, jumps, and poles. 
• Sled-Pulling: This intense activity fits their working breed roots. You can start light and use a proper harness.
• Dock Diving: It is a great activity for active dogs that love water. This activity builds strength and provides excellent cardio.

Coat and Skin Care

• Brushing: Their short coat sheds all year, more in spring. Weekly brushing reduces loose hair and keeps skin healthy.
• Bathing: You should only bathe your dog when it is dirty. Over-washing strips natural oils. You have to use dog-safe shampoos.

Ear and Eye Care

• Routine Checks: You have to check ears and eyes weekly for redness, discharge, or odor. It is important that you do early care as it helps avoid infections.
• Cleaning Tips: You have to use only vet-recommended cleaners and avoid over-cleaning.

Nail Trimming

• Monthly Maintenance: Trim nails when you hear clicking on hard floors. Long nails cause pain and issues. You can ask your vet or groomer to show you how.

Dental Hygiene

• Tooth Brushing: You can brush their teeth 2–3 times a week with dog-safe toothpaste to prevent tartar and bad breath.
• Dental Chews: You have to add vet-approved dental treats or water additives for extra oral care.

Take Care of Your Cane Corso Dog with EcoPetEssentials:

The Cane Corso is more than just a big dog with an even bigger bark. They’re loyal, intelligent, and protective companions who simply need the right environment, proper training, and plenty of love to truly thrive. If you’re ready for the responsibility and commitment, your King Cane Corso might just become the most loyal and trusted sidekick you’ll ever have. Are you looking for more expert tips on pet care, health, and training? Then, you can bookmark EcoPetEssentials, as we offer great tips, breed traits information, and care products to keep your pets happy!

FAQs for Cane Corso Dogs: 

Is a Cane Corso the same as a Pit Bull?
No, the Cane Corso and Pit Bull are separate breeds with different origins, sizes, and temperaments.

How much does a Cane Corso puppy cost?
A Cane Corso from a breeder costs $1,500–$5,000. Adoption from a rescue is usually much cheaper.

Is a Cane Corso a good family dog?
Yes, Cane Corsos can be great with families, especially with older kids, if trained and socialized early.

How intelligent is a Cane Corso?
Cane Corsos are intelligent and alert and do best with structure, training, and mental enrichment.

Where does the Cane Corso breed come from?
The Cane Corso originates from Italy and is a descendant of ancient Roman war and guardian dogs.