Breed Specific: The Cane Corso – a love when socialized and trained

These alert, well-muscled dogs are imposing at first glance and just their looks are a good deterrent against intruders.

General Characteristics: Cane Corsos are intelligent, intensely loyal to their owners, eager to please and versatile. They are also assertive and wilfull. They need a firm, but gentle owner who can take the upper hand. Early socialization with people and other dogs is vital.

Males – Height: 25-27.5 inches; Weight: Proportionate to height, can be more than 100 pounds

Females – Height: 23.5-26 inches; Weight: Proportionate to height, can be more than 100 pounds

Discuss an appropriate diet with your veterinarian. As with most breeds, some dogs are prone to weight gain, so watch calorie consumption. Treats can be an effective training aid, but too many can cause obesity. Learn which foods are safe for dogs and which are not. Multiple small meals per day and preventing vigorous exercise around mealtimes can help reduce the chances of bloat, a potentially life-threatening condition. Clean, fresh water should be available at all times.

Grooming: Cane Corsos’ double coat sheds year-round, but more in the spring. Weekly brushing during shedding season will keep the coat healthy and remove dirt and hair before it falls onto the floor and furniture. Cane Corsos should need only occasional baths. Nails should be trimmed regularly to avoid leg and foot issues. Brushing teeth weekly with a canine toothpaste is recommended.

Exercise: Cane Corsos need serious exercise. A brisk walk – better yet, a run – of at least a mile in the morning and again in the evening will sustain their health and muscle tone. Long walks, hikes and bicycle rides are appropriate. Cane Corsos are happiest when given a job that provides mental and physical stimulation. To avoid undesirable behavior, compete in agility, obedience, protection sports and tracking events.

Training: Early socialization and puppy training classes are a must for a breed as big and strong as a Cane Corso. They can be dominant and protective, so need to be trained to grow into well-mannered adults who know who’s boss in the home. They are generally easy to train, being all heart, and respond to love and rewards far better than to harsh corrections or training methods.

Thank you to the AKC Cane Corso webpage for much of this information.

BASIC FACTS: Over the Cane Corso’s 9-12 expected years, you and your vet will create a health plan to evaluate and catch any conditions that may arise.

MEDICAL CONCERNS

• Hip and Elbow issues
• Heart issues
• Skin/allergy issues
• Eye issues
• Ear issues
• Bloat or gastric dilatation-volvulus education

Pikes Peak Vet has the goal of healthy longevity for your Rottweiler.

Wellness Exams and Vaccinations

• Every 6-12 months, as advised by your veterinarian,until age 6, including a full physical exam and routine bloodwork
• Pets age faster than us and tend to hide symptoms. At age 6, we recommend routine exams and bloodwork every 6 months to catch anything unexpected before it gets too firm a hold.

Other Exams and Screenings

• Hip and elbow x-rays
• Chest x-ray
• Regular eye and ear exams
• Stomach tack, aka Gastropexy
• Routine dentistry as needed

Reach out for more information by phone or text at 719-475-1747, or through our Pikes Peak Vet app!