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Discover the Cane Corso: Top 13 Fun Facts About this Majestic Breed

illustration of cane-corso
Unleash your curiosity and embark on an adventure of discovery as we share some fur-tastic fun facts about the majestic and powerful Cane Corso!

1. Ancient Roman Doggie Warriors

Who let the dogs out in ancient Rome? Turns out, it was Brutus and his buddies: The cane corso, dating back to Roman times, were used as hunting dogs and occasionally fought alongside the legions. These dogs weren't the fiercest of war dogs, but they were bred with English fighting dogs to become the Roman "pugnaces," a group of attack dogs specialized in taking on wild animals.
Source => thefarmersdog.com

2. Versatile Working Dog Star

When they weren't guarding Godfather's vineyards or auditioning for Gladiator's sequel, the Cane Corso had quite a busy schedule: these versatile working dogs not only protected farms and farmers from wild predators and intruders but also hunted big game and partook in bloodsports like bull-fighting. The breed nearly vanished due to the World Wars, but a 1970s doggie version of The Avengers saved the day, selectively breeding Cane Corsos and securing their Italian Kennel Club recognition in 1994, skyrocketing their modern popularity.
Source => worlddogfinder.com

3. Doggie Medal Winners

Who let the dogs out to strut their stuff and win some medals? Cane Corsos, that's who: These talented pups are known to excel in various competitions like IGP and conformation shows, with the 2023 National Championship for IGP and Campionato show showcasing their skills in tracking, obedience, protection, and conformation, proving they're much more than just fearsome protectors – they're athletic and highly trainable superstars, too!
Source => workingmolossersunited.com

4. From Hades' Nephew to Farm Master

Once dubbed by ancient Greeks as "Hades' favorite nephew": The Cane Corso is an old warrior breed that eventually traded its battle armor for overalls and became a master of all trades on the farm. This hardworking hound now thrives on mental and physical stimulation, excelling at doggie sports like tracking and agility, while also moonlighting as a sensitive empath – deeply in sync with their owner's emotions.
Source => akc.org

Intimidating Teddy Bears

5. Intimidating Teddy Bears

Cane Corsos may resemble the bouncers of doggy nightclubs, but don't let their tough exteriors fool you – these lovable giants are real teddy bears at heart, just waiting to cuddle up on the couch and binge-watch the latest Netflix series with you: Despite their intimidating appearance and natural guarding instincts, Cane Corsos are actually gentle and affectionate with their families, proving to be highly trainable and eager to please their owners when led by a confident and patient alpha.
Source => barkercise.com

6. Sherlock Hulk: Protector & Detective

Meet the Cane Corso, an Italian canine mix of Sherlock Holmes and the Hulk, unraveling mysteries and crushing evil with power and precision: This highly intelligent, affectionate working dog needs consistent, hands-on training and is best suited for experienced owners who can harness their protective instincts, lest they turn into pint-sized Houdinis with a penchant for destruction.
Source => thefarmersdog.com

7. Gladiator's Furry Predecessor

Before the Gladiator stole the spotlight in Rome, another burly and brave contender was making jaws drop (and pants rip) in the Colosseum: the Cane Corso! This ancient fur-coated warrior juggled roles as a gladiatorial pugnaces and an esteemed hunting machine: With ancestry rooted in the Greek Molossus dogs, the Cane Corso nearly faded into the annals of history after World War II. Thankfully, the breed's revival in Italy during the 1970s and eventual arrival in the US in the 1980s solidified its place in the hearts and homes of many. Now recognized by the American Kennel Club since 2010, this four-legged heavyweight champ has muscled its way into the top 25 most popular dog breeds in the US.
Source => thefarmersdog.com

8. Lint Roller's Best Friend

Ah, the Cane Corso – the canine equivalent of a lint roller's best friend: Despite their relatively low to moderate shedding compared to other large breeds, Cane Corsos still manage to provide a little extra "fluff" to our lives during their shedding seasons in spring and fall. Fear not, faithful dog owners, for with regular brushing and proper nutrition, you can minimize the hairy situation and continue enjoying the company of your gentle giant without being buried in a mountain of fur.
Source => petsradar.com

9. Doggy Dwayne "The Rock" Ninja

If you're looking for a canine companion that has the brawn of Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, the agility of a ninja, and the loyalty of Samwise Gamgee, then look no further than the Cane Corso: This noble and muscular breed thrives with regular exercise and balanced nutrition, and while they might seem intimidating at first, they're actually loving, obedient, and protective family members when properly trained and cared for.
Source => fundogfitness.com

Canine Mary Poppins & Keanu Reeves

10. Canine Mary Poppins & Keanu Reeves

If you're looking for a nanny like Mary Poppins or an agile Keanu Reeves from The Matrix to guard your family from villains, consider getting a Cane Corso: These lovable gentle giants are fiercely protective of their human pack and are naturals when it comes to keeping the household safe, making them ideal for families with kiddos.
Source => pet365.co.uk

11. Pedicured Ancient War Dogs

Long before Gladiator sandals were a fashion statement, a more ferocious trend prowled ancient Rome: Cane Corsos, the war dogs with a penchant for pedicures. These fierce, furry stabilizers of Roman legionnaires had to keep their nails trimmed, or else they'd risk turning themselves into four-legged Julius Caesars on icy battlefields: Descended from Roman war dogs, Cane Corsos were developed in Italy and primarily protected farms and livestock, and despite their formidable past, they're known to be gentle and affectionate with their families.
Source => pawleaks.com

12. Tea Party Crashers & Serenaders

While a Cane Corso might not be the ideal plus-one to invite to a fancy tea party, they'll surely liven up the festivities by regaling guests with their unique "roo-roo" serenades and epic hide-and-seek antics: This strong, dominant, and fiercely protective breed thrives on mental and physical stimulation, excelling at tasks such as tracking, agility, and scent work, while showcasing their uncanny ability to harmonize with their owner's moods and feelings. Just remember, proper training is non-negotiable, so you don't end up with a cane cor-sore loser!
Source => akc.org

13. Cane Corso: Downton Abbey Dog

Meet the Cane Corso, the gentle giant: part noble protector, part emotional support dog, all wrapped up in one slobbery, cuddly package. A regular doggy Downton Abbey: Loyal, sensitive, and refined, this breed demands the best in positive reinforcement training or they'll suffer for it in anxiety and stress.
Source => lemonade.com

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