Cane Corso Dogs: Effective Protection Dogs When Properly Trained

Introduction to Cane Corso Protection Dogs

The Cane Corso is a large Italian mastiff breed that has become increasingly popular in recent years as a family protection dog. Originally bred as a catch dog for hunting wild boar and as a guard dog, the Cane Corso possesses a number of qualities that make them well-suited for protection work.

Here is an overview of the Cane Corso and what makes them effective as protection dogs:

History and Background of the Cane Corso

The Cane Corso, also known as the Italian Mastiff, has ancient roots as a guard dog and hunter of large game. They were developed in Italy and can be traced back to Roman times when they marched alongside Roman legions. After a period of decline, the breed was revived in the 1970s by Italian breeders who valued the Cane Corso's working abilities.

Today, the Cane Corso continues to have strong guarding instincts and a bold, confident temperament. They are highly intelligent and when properly trained and socialized, can distinguish between real threats and non-threats. Their athleticism and strength make them well-equipped to restrain intruders if needed.

Why the Cane Corso is an Ideal Protection Dog

There are several key characteristics of the Cane Corso that make the breed well-suited for protection work:

• Strong guarding instincts - The Cane Corso has a natural wariness of strangers and desire to protect their family and territory.
• Intimidating presence - Weighing up to 110 lbs, the Cane Corso has a powerful, muscular build that can deter intruders.
• Alert and responsive - This breed is highly attentive and perceptive of any odd sights or sounds.
• Trainability - The Cane Corso is eager to please and responds very well to obedience training and structure.
• Athleticism - This agile and energetic breed can move quickly if needed to confront a threat.
• Fearlessness - Cane Corsos possess courage and confidence even when faced with a dangerous situation.

When properly trained, the Cane Corso has the size, strength, and boldness to make them an effective protection dog for a family or property.

Training a Cane Corso Protection Dog

While the Cane Corso has natural protective abilities, they do require extensive training to fulfill a protection role properly. Professional protection dog training is a must for this breed.

Training should focus on the following:

• Basic and advanced obedience - To establish control even during high stress situations.
• Boundary and territory defense - Teaching the dog to patrol and protect specific areas.
• Bite work - Safely conditioning the dog to bite on command using arm sleeves and suits.
• Attack and release training - Commanding the dog to attack and then release on command.
• Threat recognition - Reading body language and discerning real vs fake threats.
• Socialization - Getting the dog comfortable with normal sights and sounds they may encounter.

A well-trained Cane Corso will only act on command and will not show unwarranted aggression. Ongoing maintenance training is required to keep their skills sharp.

Purchasing a Cane Corso Protection Dog

For those seeking a professionally trained Cane Corso protection dog, there are a few options:

Protection Dog Breeders

Reputable Cane Corso breeders may offer older puppies or adult dogs with basic protection training. This allows the new owner to bond with the dog from a young age and continue building their skills. Expect to pay $2000-$4000 for a protection trained puppy.

Protection Dog Trainers

Many professional dog trainers specialize in training protection dogs. They often have fully trained adult Cane Corsos available for purchase. These dogs have more advanced skillsets but the new owner has not been involved in the early foundation training. Cost is typically $8000-$12,000.

Private Security Firms

Some private security companies utilize Cane Corsos to secure properties. These dogs have received thorough training regimens designed for security work. This option is most expensive, ranging from $15,000-$30,000 per dog.

When acquiring a trained protection dog, documentation of their training should be provided. Most buyers will also want to spend time getting acquainted with the dog before purchase.

Considerations for Owning Cane Corso Protection Dogs

While Cane Corsos can provide valuable protection services, they do have some considerations that prospective buyers should keep in mind:

• Require ongoing training to maintain skills and prevent unwanted aggression.
• Need plenty of space as they are large, energetic dogs.
• Tend to be wary of strangers and need early socialization.
• May not be suitable for homes with small children.
• Can have high prey drive towards small pets or livestock.
• Require experienced owners used to handling guard dog breeds.
• Incur higher food, medical, and insurance costs than most dogs.

Protection dogs also face legal restrictions in some areas, so research local laws. Overall, in the right hands, a trained Cane Corso can be a loyal protector of their family and property.

FAQs

Are Cane Corsos aggressive dogs?

Cane Corsos are not inherently aggressive dogs. However, they do have strong territorial instincts. With proper training and socialization from an early age, Cane Corsos can be very reliable companions. But they do require experienced owners used to handling guard dog breeds.

Do Cane Corsos make good family pets?

Cane Corsos have protective instincts that make them devoted to their family. However, care should be taken with small children, as Cane Corsos play rough. Their size and power mean kids could accidentally get knocked over. Proper supervision is a must if keeping Cane Corsos with kids.

How much exercise does a Cane Corso need?

As a working breed, Cane Corsos require a good amount of daily exercise. Plan on providing a minimum of 60-90 minutes of vigorous activity per day. This athletic breed thrives when given jobs to do and space to run around. Cane Corsos do best in homes with large fenced yards.

What type of training is needed for a protection dog?

Cane Corsos require extensive professional training to be effective as protection dogs. Training should include obedience, bite work, threat recognition, territory defense, and more. Ongoing maintenance training is also crucial to prevent unwanted aggression. Never rely on a Cane Corso for protection without proper training.

Are Cane Corsos legal in my area?

Some locations have bans or restrictions against certain dog breeds, including Cane Corsos. Always check your local laws before obtaining one of these dogs. Many areas also have additional regulations for owning protection dogs. Make sure you comply with any licensing or liability insurance requirements.