Italian Cane Corso
Also known as Cane Corso Italiano · Chien de Cour Italien · Italienischer Corso-Hund · Cane Corso
Italy, Molossian type
- Size
- Large
- Height
- 60–68 cm
- Weight
- 40–50 kg
- Life expectancy
- 9–12 yrs
- Loyal
- Protective
- Confident
- Strong-willed
- Alert
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Italian Cane Corso
The Italian Cane Corso is a large mastiff-type dog from Italy, historically used for guarding property, driving cattle and hunting large game. It is powerful and muscular, with a large head, strong jaw and a short, dense coat in black, grey, fawn or red, sometimes brindled. It is a serious, athletic guardian dog that needs experienced handling.
Temperament
Confident, loyal and protective, usually calm with its family but wary of strangers. Early socialisation and firm, fair, consistent training are essential because of its size and guarding instincts.
Exercise
Needs about an hour or more of daily exercise, plus mental work and training. Avoid hard, repetitive exercise during growth.
Grooming
Short coat that sheds seasonally; weekly brushing is usually enough.
Care & wellbeing
Heat sensitivity can occur, so avoid exertion in hot weather. Breed-appropriate health screening is recommended.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 45 kg adult- Water
- 1.8 L–2.7 L
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 1,950 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 60–90 min
- a day
- Grooming
- An occasional brush is plenty
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Italian Cane Corso
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
A powerful Italian mastiff-type dog descended from old Roman-era working dogs. It was used on farms for guarding property, herding cattle and driving livestock, and later as a hunting helper. Today it remains a strong, protective guardian that needs experienced handling.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus)
- Eyelid problems (entropion or ectropion)
- Demodectic mange
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Hip and elbow scores
- Eye tests
- Heart screening
Not every Italian Cane Corso is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
Higher than average- Food, insurance and medicines cost more for a big dog
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 9–12 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.
Is a Italian Cane Corso right for you?
Could suit
- Owners who can manage a good walk or two each day
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
Think twice if
- You need a dog you can easily lift or carry
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Italian Cane Corso get?
Adult Italian Cane Corsos typically stand about 60–68 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 40–50 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Italian Cane Corsos live?
Typically 9–12 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 Italian Cane Corso need?
As a guide, around 60–90 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Italian Cane Corso need?
An occasional brush is plenty. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Italian Cane Corsos easy to train?
Generally trainable with consistent, reward-based practice.
Do Italian Cane Corsos shed?
A little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Italian Cane Corsos 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 Italian Cane Corso live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Italian Cane Corsos have?
The breed can be prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus), eyelid problems (entropion or ectropion). Not every Italian Cane Corso is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- Italy
- Type
- Molossian type
- Internationally recognised
- 2007