Corsican Dog
Also known as Cursinu · Chien Corse
France, Working and herding dogs
- Size
- Medium
- Height
- 46–58 cm
- Weight
- 20–28 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–15 yrs
- Versatile
- Hardy
- Loyal
- Watchful
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
The Cursinu is a medium-sized, versatile working dog from the island of Corsica. It has a thick coat, usually short but sometimes longer and fringed, often brindle, fawn, black and tan or brown, with limited white markings. It is used for herding livestock, hunting wild boar and guarding the home.
Size
- Size
- Medium
- Height at shoulder
- 46–58 cm
- Adult weight
- 20–28 kg
Typical adult ranges. Males are often at the top of the range and females at the bottom. Most reach adult size by around 12 months.
Lifespan
12–15 years
Most Corsican Dogs live 12–15 years. Like other medium dogs, they're usually considered senior from about 8, when twice-yearly vet checks help catch problems early. Keeping them lean is one of the most effective things you can do for a long life. How old is that in human years?
Temperament
It is a capable all-round working dog that becomes a pleasant companion with the right owner, though it may need more training than some breeds. It tends to be watchful and loyal.
- Versatile
- Hardy
- Loyal
- Watchful
Food
For a typical 24 kg adult- Energy
- ≈ 1,210 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Water
- 960 ml–1.4 L
- a day, from all sources
- Most adults do well on two measured meals a day rather than one large one.
- Choose a complete food for their life stage, and ask your vet before changing diet if they have a health condition.
Starting points only — age, activity and the food itself change the numbers. Work out portions for your dog · Foods to avoid
Exercise
90–120 min a dayThis is an active, hardy dog that needs plenty of daily exercise, ideally with some purposeful work such as tracking, herding or long hikes.
Grooming & shedding
A weekly brush is enough for most coats, with extra attention during seasonal shedding and for longer-coated dogs.
Health
Consistent, patient training and early socialisation help it settle as a family dog. It is rare outside Corsica and mainland France. No breed-specific health problems are recognised, but published data are limited.
The breed can be prone to
- No known breed-specific health problems; little published data
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- General veterinary check
- Hip scoring
Not every Corsican Dog is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. See common conditions and the symptom checker.
History
Dogs of this type have been recorded on Corsica since the sixteenth century, where they worked as all-purpose farm and hunting dogs. Competition from mainland breeds in the late twentieth century pushed them into decline, and a preservation society was founded in 1989. The French kennel club recognised the breed in 2003, placing it with the primitive and spitz types.
- Country of origin
- France
- Type
- Working and herding dogs
- Recognition
- Recognised by the Société Centrale Canine (France) since 2003; not recognised by the FCI, AKC or The Kennel Club
Is a Corsican Dog right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
Cost to keep
About average- Moderate food and insurance costs
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 12–15 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Not sure? Try the breed finder.
Corsican Dog FAQ
How big does a Corsican Dog get?
Adult Corsican Dogs typically stand about 46–58 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 20–28 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Corsican Dogs live?
Typically 12–15 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Corsican Dog need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Corsican Dog need?
A brush once a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Corsican Dogs easy to train?
Generally trainable with consistent, reward-based practice.
Do Corsican Dogs shed?
A moderate amount. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Corsican Dogs good with children?
Many get on well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Corsican Dog live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Corsican Dogs have?
The breed can be prone to no known breed-specific health problems; little published data. Not every Corsican Dog is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by the Petopedia editorial team to our editorial standards. General guidance, not veterinary advice.