The Cane Corso is an ancient Italian breed.  The direct ancestor of the Cane Corso is the “Canis Pugnax” (the old Roman Molossian) of which corsi are the ‘light version’ and were employed as “auxiliary warriors” in the Roman Wars.  The ‘heavy version’ refers to what is now known as the Neapolitan Mastiff.  The Cane Corso name is derived from the word “Cane” which means dog and “Cohors” which means ‘guardian’ or ‘protector’.

After the Roman Wars, the courageous Corso became known as both a hunter/catch-dog for large game (boar, bear, & deer) as well as for protection of property and livestock.  Being exceptionally versatile has allowed the Corso to adapt to the continually changing roles over the years as agriculture has diminished and now new roles have emerged, primarily found now as family protectors and companions.  

Although largely unheard of outside of Italy until recent years, the Corso was a staple in Italian culture for much of the modern world.  After World War II, the population of Corsos declined as their working needs were no longer in demand.  During the mid-1970’s, a few Cane Corso enthusiasts fondly recalled the majestic dogs of the early 20th century and worked together to locate some corsi still known in remote villages and began to revitalize the breed.  

In the 1980’s the first corsi arrived in the United States.  Since then, the Cane Corso has been accepted as a breed in the Italian Kennel Club (ENCI) in 1994, the World Kennel Club (FCI) in 1997, and the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 2010.

The temperament of the Cane Corso is not one for first time dog owners as they will often have a dominant personality and are naturally very protective of their families and property.  As a guardian breed, Corsos are also naturally intuitive and suspicious of change.  Corsos bond very closely with their families and require strong, consistent leadership.  Because they bond so closely, this often makes them relatively easy to train as they are constantly trying to please their owners.  Starting early and maintaining continuous socialization is key to having a stable, even-tempered dog easily adaptable to changes.  

In general, a Corso will be naturally gentle and very tolerant with children.  Even though they may look “tough”, Corsos really have a very sensitive nature that lends itself to complete devotion to the family.  Their true goofy personalities are often reserved only for their family and possibly close friends.  When discipling a Corso, often a strong word or a harsh tone is all that is needed to get the message across, as they often sulk for hours after being reprimanded.  These dogs genuinely crave attention and love, to the point that they are often described as “velcro-dogs”.  Many Corsos suffer from separation anxiety if not properly socialized from a young age. 

Overall, a Cane Corso has the potential to be one of the best dogs you have ever owned, but be aware and be informed before making the decision to purchase a Corso.  These dogs require a high level of commitment, a strong, firm leadership, moderate activity, and plenty of love!  However, to be utterly, totally, and completely loved by a Corso is to have a fiercely loyal companion for life!