Cane Corso
Male: 45-50 kg; Female: 40-45 kg.
Male: 64-68 cm; Female: 60-64 cm (at the shoulder).
9-12 years
Italy
About the Cane Corso
The Cane Corso is a formidable yet elegant working breed, descending from the ancient Roman Molossian hounds. Known for its imposing stature and muscular build, this Italian Mastiff is the epitome of a guardian dog. Unlike many other heavy mastiff breeds, the Corso retains a high degree of athleticism and agility, moving with a powerful, effortless stride that reflects its history as a hunter of large game and a protector of livestock. Deeply loyal and bonded to its family, the Cane Corso is often described as a 'velcro dog' that prefers to be in the same room as its owners. While they are naturally wary of strangers, they are not prone to random aggression; rather, they possess a discerning nature and an inherent ability to assess threats. They require a confident owner who can provide consistent leadership, early socialisation, and ongoing training to channel their protective instincts and high intelligence effectively.
Breed Standard
Key characteristics from the breed standard
In the show ring, the Cane Corso is distinguished by its 'noble' and 'statuesque' presence. The breed standard calls for a robust, rectangular structure where the length of the body is slightly greater than the height. Its movement is a signature trait—a powerful, flowing trot with great reach and drive that reflects its functional history.
In Australia
In July 2003, the Cane Corso was officially recognised by the Australian National Kennel Council (ANKC).
Bred For
Guard dog, hunter of large game (such as wild boar), and versatile farm hand.
Temperament
Affectionate, intelligent, majestic, and assertively protective.
Health Conditions Reported in the Breed
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Grooming Needs
Low; their short coat requires only weekly brushing with a rubber mitt or firm bristle brush and occasional baths.
Living Suitability
The Cane Corso thrives in a home with a large, securely fenced yard. They are sensitive to extreme heat and should have access to climate-controlled indoor spaces.
Good with Kids
Generally very good and protective with their own family's children. However, due to their sheer size and strength, they are better suited to households with older children, and all interactions with younger children should be strictly supervised.
Good with Other Pets
Can be dominant or territorial with other dogs, particularly those of the same sex. Their high prey drive may also make them a challenge for households with small pets unless raised with them from puppyhood.
Trainability
High; they are exceptionally intelligent and eager to work, but they also possess a strong-willed, independent streak that requires firm, consistent, and positive reinforcement training from a capable handler.
Coat & Colours
Short, stiff, and very dense with a light undercoat that thickens in winter.. Black, lead-grey, slate-grey, light grey, light fawn, stag red, dark fawn, and brindle (black or grey).
Exercise needs vary by age, fitness, health, weather and individual temperament. Consult your veterinarian for an exercise plan appropriate for your dog.
Things to Consider
Every breed has its quirks — here's what to know
Prospective owners should be aware that the Cane Corso is predisposed to several health and lifestyle factors. As a deep-chested breed, they are more likely to experience Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (Bloat)—this is a life-threatening condition, so feeding smaller, multiple meals and avoiding exercise directly after eating is a wise precaution. They are also prone to hip and elbow dysplasia; keeping them at a lean weight and providing joint support can help manage this risk. Like many large-lipped breeds, they are known to drool, especially after drinking or while waiting for food, so a 'slobber towel' is a handy household item. In terms of diet, the Cane Corso can be more likely to develop skin irritations or digestive upset on standard high-grain commercial kibbles—many owners find they thrive on a fresh, species-appropriate raw diet that avoids common allergens. Their strong guarding instinct and high prey drive mean that consistent socialisation and secure fencing are non-negotiable. They are incredibly devoted to their humans and can be susceptible to separation anxiety if left alone for very long periods. While they are moderate shedders, they do have a seasonal 'blow out' that will require more frequent brushing. These traits are part of what makes the Corso so special; they aren't 'negatives,' but rather characteristics that a dedicated owner can easily manage to enjoy a rewarding life with this magnificent breed.
Feeding Guide for Your Cane Corso
Healthy Weight
40-50 kg
Daily Feeding Amount (general starting estimate)
900-1500 grams
For an adult Cane Corso, a fresh or raw diet should consist of roughly 2-3% of their ideal body weight daily. For an average 45kg dog, this equates to approximately 900g to 1,350g of food per day. Some owners use smaller divided meals and avoid strenuous activity immediately around feeding. These steps cannot guarantee prevention of gastric dilatation-volvulus. Seek urgent veterinary care if bloat is suspected.
Feeding quantities are general starting estimates only. Individual needs vary with body condition, weight trends, age, health and activity. Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition — consult a veterinarian for individualised dietary guidance.
Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition. Seek veterinary or qualified canine nutrition guidance for individualised dietary advice. Raw feeding, specific proteins or fresh foods should not be presented as preventing, treating or managing breed health conditions without veterinary diagnosis and supervision.
Majestik's Recommended Feeding Approach
Breed Diet Notes
A diet rich in high-quality, bioavailable animal proteins with strictly controlled calcium-to-phosphorus ratios is essential, particularly during the puppy growth phase to prevent orthopedic issues. Fresh or raw diets are often preferred to maintain lean muscle mass and support digestive health.
A breed-specific Majestik raw diet should focus on high-quality Australian proteins such as Beef, Lamb, and Kangaroo. Kangaroo is an excellent lean protein choice to help keep this heavy breed at a healthy weight to protect their joints. The diet should include raw meaty bones (like lamb necks or beef brisket) for dental health and calcium, alongside organ meats (liver and kidney) for essential vitamins. Given their predisposition to joint issues, the inclusion of omega-3 rich fish or green-lipped mussel is highly recommended. Avoid high-carbohydrate fillers that can lead to unnecessary weight gain and inflammatory responses.
These are general breed-level notes only. The appropriate food and serving amount depend on the individual dog's age, health, body condition, activity and tolerance.
Majestik Recommendation
Majestik BARF meals follow our practical 70/10/10/10 approach: approximately 70% quality meat and protein ingredients, 10% edible bone, 10% vegetables and 10% offal. This gives customers a convenient fresh-food option without needing to source and portion every ingredient themselves.
Our Beef, Lamb and Roo BARF meals provide convenient fresh-food options, with suitable proteins chosen or rotated according to the individual dog.
Suitable for different needs
- Healthy adult: Majestik adult Beef, Lamb or Roo BARF meal.
- Puppy: Majestik Premium Puppy.
- Senior: Majestik Senior Blend.
- Working or highly active dog: Suitable Majestik adult meal with quantity adjusted to workload and body condition.
- Protein trial: One Majestik protein at a time.
This is a practical starting recommendation for healthy dogs. Individual needs vary with age, health, body condition and activity.
Cane Corso Feeding Calculator
Personalised raw and cooked feeding recommendations based on your dog's profile
Ideal — Ribs palpable without excess fat. Visible waist. Abdominal tuck present.
Have a question about your Cane Corso? Dog Health AI
Why Majestik?
Fresh, raw pet food made with integrity in South Australia
Australian Made
Made in Two Wells, South Australia
Freshly Prepared
Real meat, organs, bone & wholefood ingredients
No Fillers
No cheap fillers or artificial preservatives
Family Owned
Locally owned and operated
Local Delivery
Delivery across Adelaide & selected areas
Secure Checkout
Secure payment via Shopify checkout
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Breed Records & Facts
Average Litter Size
4-8 puppies
Cane Corso Owner Feedback
Real experiences and tips from Cane Corso owners
Other Large Breeds
References & Sources
Breed information verified against recognised breed authorities and veterinary evidence.
