Breed History

BREED HISTORY

 

Most histories have the Italian Mastiff the Cane Corso descending from a larger molossus wars dog breed in Greece nearly a thousand years ago. These molossus type dogs were brought into Europe and cross breed with the native dogs of Italy and the Cane Corso was born.

 

 

Originally the Romans are said to have breed the dogs for warfare, but soon, and more than likely due to their high level of intelligence, trainability, and eagerness to please their owners, the Cane Corso soon became useful at other task like fighting, hunting, herding, and more commonly as Guardians of property and livestock, and also as personal Protectors.

 

 

The name “Cane Corso” is said to have derived from the Latin word “Cahors” which literally means Bodyguard & Protector. Standing over 27 inches, weighing over 100 pounds, these muscular giants, possess one of the most intimidating barks, an imposing gaze, and are fully capable of warding off any predators, intruders, or would be mugger.

 

 

From the time of its creation up until the late 19th century, war had nearly brought about the demise of the Cane Corso. But because of dog lovers like Professor Giovanni Bonatti who in 1957 published an article addressing the need to save the Cane Corso; and Dr. Paolo Breber who again brought the Cane Corso to public attention in 1976. And was responsible for the founding of the S.A.C.C., the group that first took on the call for the breeds restoration; And Mike Sottile who in 1988 brought Cane Corso to America… These people, along with many others, played a huge part with increasing the Cane Corso population.

 

 

In 1993 the ICCF was formed. In 1994 the Cane Corso receive ENCI recognition. In 1996 the breed received FCI recognition. In 1999 the AICC arrived on the scene. But it wasn’t until 2010 that the AKC finally grant the Cane Corso full recognition.

 

 

Now, in the 20th century, the Cane Corso have appeared in commercials, music videos, and movies. Today the love for this loyal, intelligent, versatile breed, that is more than eager to please its owner, have taking the world by storm and Virtuous is happy to be a part of the Cane Corso journey.