The Cane Corso is a well-muscled dog that originates from Southern Italy, where is has served as a hunter, guard dog, and companion to many. The Cane Corso descends from the dogs used by the ancient Romans in warfare, but one would hardly know it when they meet a well-socialized companion dog today. The popularity of the Cane Corso continues to grow, but there are a few things that you need to know about Cane Corso temperament before you decide to bring home your new family member.

Cane Corso Temperament: Athletic and Energetic

The first thing that people think when they see a Cane Corso is that because it is a big dog it will probably not be very energetic. This could not be further from the truth. The Cane Corso was used as a hunter and used to chase down large game. They could easily run full speed for many miles at a time. You will need to provide a suitable replacement for this need. They need copious amounts of outdoor time and vigorous exercise to be happy and well-mannered when indoors.

Form Close Bonds

The Cane Corso forms close bonds with their family. With proper training, they can be good with children or other pets. They require an owner who understands dog hierarchy and social systems. If the owner is not willing to be the pack leader, Cane Corso temperament dictates that it will readily fill the role.

Without strong leadership, the Cane Corso can develop significant behavioral problems, including aggression or destructiveness. The owner must be willing to set and enforce limits appropriately. With proper training, starting with puppy classes, the Cane Corso can be a beloved member of the family for many years. A well socialized Cane Corso is a joy to be around.

Territorial

The Cane Corso was used as a guard dog and has a strong sense of territory towards their family and possessions, such as favorite toys or their couch. They have a strong desire to be near their family. They can be aloof or suspicious of strangers until that person is welcomed by the family. Cane corso temperament means that they are not likely to roam far from their home or family.

The Cane Corso that is not well socialized can show aggression towards strangers. They have trouble distinguishing when and when not to be protective. They tend to err on the side of caution. Proper social behavior is something that the owner must be willing to enforce to make certain that the dog understands what to do in social situations. A Cane Corso owner must be willing to accept responsibility for their dog’s behavior.

Intelligent

Cane Corsos were valued for their intelligence. They were bred to be versatile dogs who could learn to track, work as cattle drovers, be protectors of property, and engage in large game hunting. This intelligence is both a blessing and a boon for their modern owners. Because they are intelligent, they are easy to train, but they also tend to have a mind of their own.

The owner often has to give the dog a reason to listen to them, and Corsos can drive a hard bargain. Even though they are loyal, they can have a tendency to be strong willed when it comes to getting what they want. The owner must be consistent and confident in their training.

This intelligence also means that they are easily bored, and if not given proper entertainment they will make their own. Often their form of entertainment is something much to the disdain of the owner. The destructive potential of a bored Cane Corso can be something to behold. They need to play with their people as much, or more so than they need to play with toys. They crave human interaction. They like to show their affection by leaning or sitting on you.

The Cane Corso is a majestic dog and a wonderful family companion when trained and socialized properly from an early age. If you are considering a Cane Corso, you must be prepared to provide for all of the temperamental needs that this breed requires. If you educate yourself to the needs of the animal and provide a proper environment, you will have a loving and loyal family member for many years.