The Cane Corso Puppy: 5 Things to Know First!
If you missed our introductory blog about the Cane Corso breed, you can read it here.
While appearing formidable to many people, the Cane Corso – or Italian Mastiff – is docile, affectionate and intelligent.
If you’re thinking about adding a Corso puppy to your home and life, keep reading to learn the 5 things you need to know first before falling in love with those irresistible puppy eyes!
Corso Puppy and Socialization
It’s been said this ancient breed lives for its family’s companionship and one-on-one interaction. Having said that, Corso puppies must be well-socialized as they mature and grow into their adult size (typically over 100 pounds).
Proper socialization early on will ensure puppies:
- Remain friendly and trusting.
- Maintain a calm demeanor.
- Are alert, attentive and obedient to their owner.
But socialization involves more than just socializing with other dogs. All puppies, including the Cane Corso, need to be exposed to:
- Different animals including dogs.
- All types of people and children.
- Sounds, sights and smells.
- All types of day-to-day situations.
Early and extensive socialization helps:
- Create a Cane Corso (or any dog) who is:
- Mild and self-assured.
- Well-balanced.
- Confident.
- Prevent fears, phobias or anxieties from taking root. These could lead to a very large and powerful dog with undesirable behavioral issues. Both socialization and training help shape your puppy’s overall temperament and behavior.
Creating Boundaries for the Cane Corso Puppy
Owners must create and enforce consistent boundaries when it comes to desirable and acceptable behavior from the puppy. While it may seem “cute” when the puppy ignores and pushes boundaries early on, ignoring those behaviors could lead to some very difficult situations especially when the puppy grows in size and strength.
All members of the family must be on the same page when it comes to what the puppy is allowed to do. Inconsistency will only make training harder and confuse your dog in understanding what is exactly expected from him.
For example, define (and stick to) boundaries when it comes to your puppy and:
- Eating.
- Getting on the furniture.
- His nighttime routine.
- His routine for going outside and coming back inside.
- Riding in the car and more.
Establishing and enforcing consistent boundaries also reinforce your leadership role multiple times a day with these common activities.
Choosing the Right Corso Breeder
Before adopting a Cane Corso puppy from a breeder, do your research! Then:
- Only deal with a reputable and experienced breeder for a puppy.
- Visit your puppy’s first home.
The right breeder will screen their Cane Corso parents for temperament and physical defects like hip and elbow dysplasia or deformities, joint issues, cardiac issues, idiopathic epilepsy, eyelid abnormalities and more.
Also, breeders who are focused on breeding good family dogs will also help you pick the right puppy for your home, family and lifestyle.
What to know More? “14 Things You Should Know Before Owning a Cane Corso Puppy.”
Good Family Dog?
If you have children, especially younger ones, it’s important to choose a canine breed suitable for family life. The Italian Mastiff is a very good choice for a family with their inherent qualities of being:
- Loyal.
- Protective.
- Devoted.
- Calm and gentle.
- Affectionate.
Of course, if you have smaller children, it’s important to use common sense to protect younger kids from being accidentally knocked over by a rambunctious, energetic Cane Corso (even a growing puppy!) simply due to his size and strength.
Also, teach your children how to properly interact with, and respect, their furry best friend. And remember, socialization and training both play a critical role inside the home and out.
The Final Word
If you’re contemplating adopting a Cane Corso puppy, it’s critical to remember the Corso can be assertive, willful, destructive and even dominant when owners do not create and enforce boundaries as the calm, confident, assertive, consistent and experienced alpha pack leader. With this in mind, if you’re a first-time dog owner, the Cane Corso may not be the best choice for you.
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