Prepare for unexpected vet bills
The Cane Corso, also known as the Italian Mastiff, is a huge and serious dog breed that was originally developed to hunt big game such as wild boars. At present, however, the Corso has come to be more of a family companion and a guard dog. In fact, the breed is known for being fiercely protective and loyal of their family. Other than being a watch dog, Corsos also excel in taking on “jobs” given by their owners. Athletic, powerful and intelligent, they are a force to be reckoned with and should be properly cared for. A strong-willed but gentle owner, coupled with the right type of activities and enough companionship, can help keep the Cane Corso happy and content.Â
For some dog owners, winter is their least favorite season of the year. This is because all the snow can affect their dog's usual exercise regimen such as daily walks. However, the cold weather should not be a reason to put off your dog’s physical needs. As a matter of fact, winter provides unique activities that can help your dog stay active. A good winter activity for your Cane Corso is dog sledding. In this activity, you will have your dog pull a sled across snow. Cane Corsos are a good fit for sledding because of their inherent pulling instincts. Plus, the breed is powerful enough to pull a medium-sized sled with you riding on it. Sledding is an ingenious way to tap into your Corso’s natural desire to pull things while also spending some time with your dog.Â
Because of their gigantic size and natural prey drive, it is no surprise that Cane Corsos need a good amount of physical movement to stay happy and healthy. Corsos also like to engage in exciting and fun activities, which is why they are perfect participants for dock diving. Also known as dock jumping, this canine sport involves exactly what the name states – dogs dive off a dock and into the water. The objective is for the dog to retrieve an item (typically a floating toy) that was thrown into the water (a lake or river). It is similar to a game of fetch, but with more challenge and amusement.Â
Cane Corsos were originally bred to be used as guard dogs during their early years. Even today, the breed has retained their natural protective instincts; Corsos have the tendency to stick to their owners and watch out for strangers. For this reason, Corsos make for great protection sport participants. Formerly known as “Schutzhund” (which means “protection dog” in German), protection sport is a canine activity wherein participating dogs are evaluated in various skills relating to obedience, tracking and protection. This sport was originally created for German Shepherds in particular. However, over the years, it became open to other breeds, including the Cane Corso.Â
Nose work competition is a low-impact sport where dogs can apply their keen sense of smell in a realistic setting. In nose work, a dog looks for and finds a certain scent. This sport is a good way to put your dog’s ability to recognize scents to the test.Â
This canine sport is a relay race where the participating dogs jump over hurdles to retrieve a ball. This is not a breed-specific activity and all dogs are welcomed to train and participate. Cane Corsos are a good fit for flyball because they are agile and athletic, which matches the sport’s fast-paced nature.Â
Cane Corsos are some of the gentlest giants you will ever encounter. If you are fortunate enough to own this breed as a pet, you need to know what you are getting into. Corsos are not meant to be left alone to fend for themselves; they love their family and are in need of regular exercise to keep them happy.Â