The
Cane Corso descends directly
from the ancient Roman Molosser.
Originally, these War Dogs were
used in battle and also pitted
against lions and other large
beasts in the colosseums
of Rome. After the fall of
the Roman Empire, these
molossers were crossed with some
local hounds to create a smaller
more agile working dog that
could function as a hunter,
drover and guard.
Throughout the breeds
history, they were very highly
respected working dogs that are
frequently mentioned in Italian
writings. However, with the
decline of agriculture, the
Cane Corso found itself in danger
of becoming extinct. Fortunately,
with the help of some very
passionate and dedicated
enthusiasts, some of the better
subjects were acquired and
the Cane Corso was given a
new birth.
Often refered to as the only
coursing mastiff
left in modern times,
this breed can run seemingly
effortlessly and have the
agility of a dog a quarter
of its size.
The Cane Corso is known by a
variety of names,
including:
Cane
Corso Italiano
Cane Corso Mastiff
Siciliano Branchiero
Cane Corso Dog
Rare Breed Italian Mastiff
TERMS
TO REMEMBER:
Cane (pronounced 'Connie') -
which means dog.
Corso - derived from the latin
word 'cohors', which means to
guard or protect.
Combined, the term Cane Corso
translates to mean Guardian,
Protector of the Farm or
Courtyard.
Coursing -
1) To move swiftly; run;
race.
2) To pursue, as in hunting.
3) To traverse
swiftly.
(Excerpts
from the official ICCF
Standard)
UTILIZATION: Watch, protection,
police, and track dog.
CLASSIFICATION: Working group 1,
dogs like Argentine Dogo and
Black Russian Terrier.
BRIEF HISTORICAL SUMMARY - Its
direct ancestor is the "Canis
Pugnax" (the old Roman Molossian)
of which he is the light version
employed in the hunting of large
wild animals and also as an
"auxiliary warrior" in battles.
For years, he has been a precious
companion of the Italic
population. Employed as property,
cattle and personal guard dog.
They were also used for hunting
purposes.
GENERAL APPEARANCE - Medium-to
large size dog, strongly built
but elegant, with powerful long
muscles, very distinguished, he
expresses strength, agility and
endurance. The general
conformation is that of a
mesomorphic animal whose body is
longer than the height at the
withers, harmonious as regards
the form and disharmonious as
regards the profile. Get
additional information from
comments to standard.
BEHAVIOUR AND TEMPERAMENT -
Intelligent, active, even-minded,
an unequaled watch and protection
dog. Docile and affectionate with
owner, loving with children and
with family, if necessary he
becomes a terrible and brave
protector of people, house and
property. He is easily
trained.
