The Italian Breed That Wins The Most Protective, Smart, And Strong Dog Awards
Loyal, powerful, and intelligent: Not every dog breed fits all of these categories. However, if you want a true triple threat, look no further than the cane corso. This large, mastiff-type canine in the American Kennel Club's working group has a storied, versatile history as a protector, farm dog, and more. Today, the breed's members continue that long legacy as steadfast companions.
Will Atherton, clinical canine behaviorist (MSc) and popular social media trainer, picked the cane corso as one of his top breeds. "Number one would be the Cane Corso. I absolutely love mastiff breeds. Of all the mastiff breeds, for me I would be torn between the English mastiff and the cane corso," he shared on TikTok. Cani corsi like extended walks with their people and excel at enrichment activities such as agility and obedience training. Weighing around 100 pounds, their size can sometimes make them look comical, especially as clumsy puppies knocking into other pets or people.
The cane corso is not a breed for everyone, especially beginners, due to their large size and strong nature. Certain cities and states also have breed-specific legislation that may make owning one of these dogs difficult. Further, their protective traits and high intelligence mean they require lifelong training. However, when properly socialized, cani corsi are self-assured, low-key, and gentle.
The origins of the cane corso
The cani corsi's history is important for tracing just how these dogs became popular as a loyal, protective breed. Their roots date back to the ancient Greece. In fact, "cane corso" is Latin in origin, roughly translating to "bodyguard dog". The mastiff-types were later used as warrior dogs, or "pireferi" in the Roman military. Their large, strong bodies allowed them to carry buckets filled with oil into battle.
Even after Roman times, the breed remained well-liked due to its members' versatility. Cani corsi worked in Italy as guardians, game hunters, and farm dogs, able to take on any task given to them. It wasn't until after World War II and economic struggles in Italy that the breed fell out of favor. In fact, cani corsi became so unpopular, they faced extinction — until a group of enthusiasts worked to revive the breed in the 1970s. Since then, the cane corso has again grown in esteem, including joining the AKC in 2010.
Training, socialization, and love are key to keeping cani corsi as pets
While the cane corso's nature as a protective breed may seem intimidating, they're actually loving, loyal dogs that enjoy spending time with their families. Lifelong training is the perfect way to keep a cane corso occupied. Starting dog training and socialization from puppyhood can help ensure they're well-rounded and not fearful of outsiders. Cani corsi are also incredibly loving toward their people, wanting to be with them at all times. TikToker thordacorso shows just how adorably loyal and clingy they can be.
@thordacorso LOL! They are so clingy because they always want to make sure you're ok, they want to protect at all times and just loving! 🥰🩶🐾 I heard pit bulls are clingy too...is that true? #thordacorso #canecorso #canecorsopuppy #puppytiktok #dogsoftiktok #corsosoftiktok #dogmom #clingypet
It's important to introduce a puppy to as many different elements as possible — including kids, people, and other pets. Since cani corsi belong to a working breed, giving them a job can also help. Figuring out what breed-specific enrichment activities they enjoy can keep a cane corso focused. Many excel at pastimes that allow them to work both their brains and bodies. Though this breed may not be for everyone, if you want a dog that earns tops marks in protection, smarts, and strength, look no further than the cane corso.