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The noble Cane Corso's predecessors were big game hunters that showed power, courage and agility, and later proved their skills as drovers and guardians of livestock, property and family on Italian farms. The modern Cane Corso is a stable, protective dog with a strong sense of territory that is loyal and submissive to its family, but suspicious and aloof with strangers. The breed can be highly dominant toward people and other dogs, but plenty of early socialization and obedience training softens these aggressive tendencies. When properly socialized, the Cane Corso is gentle and protective with children. The Cane Corso craves regular affection, attention and interaction with its family. This athletic breed thrives in a house or apartment, provided its high daily exercise needs are met. Jogging, bike riding and long walks are ideal. A Cane Corso male should measure a minimum of 25 to 27.5 inches at the withers; females, 23.5 to 26 inches. The ears may be cropped or uncropped. The tail may be docked; for natural tails, the tip should reach the hock but not below. The short, harsh coat requires minimal weekly grooming. Acceptable colors are black, lighter and darker shades of gray, lighter and darker shades of fawn, and red. Brindling is allowed on all of these colors. Solid fawn and red, including lighter and darker shades, have a black or gray mask. The mask does not go beyond the eyes. There may be a white patch on the chest, throat, chin, backs of the pasterns, and on the toes. The International Cane Corso Federation does not recommend the Cane Corso for first-time dog owners; those who have had experience raising and training dominant dogs are best suited for this breed.

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