| Height | 25-27.5 inches (male), 23.5-26 inches (female) [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | Proportionate to height [1] |
| Life expectancy | 9–12+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Intelligent / Affectionate / Majestic [1] |
| AKC group | Working Group [1] |
| Origin | Italy [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 11 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
Cane Corsos need serious exercise. A brisk walk'¿or better yet, run'¿of at least a mile in the morning and again in the evening will sustain their health and muscle tone. They make great companions on long walks, hikes, or bicycle rides. [1]
Grooming
The Cane Corso's coat is short, but double-layered. The undercoat, which varies in length depending on the climate the dog lives in, sheds throughout the year, especially during shedding season in the spring. Weekly brushing'¿daily during shedding season'¿with a medium-bristle brush, a rubber grooming mitt or tool, or a hound glove will remove the dead hair before it can fall onto the furniture, and it helps remove dirt and promotes new hair growth as well. [1]
Health issues to budget for
Cane Corsos are generally healthy dogs,and responsible breeders screen their stock for health conditions such as hip dysplasia, idiopathic epilepsy, demodex mange, and eyelid abnormalities.vLarge and deep-chested breeds are susceptible to bloat, a sudden, life-threatening stomach condition. Cane Corso owners should learn what signs to look out for, and what to do should they occur. As with all breeds, a Cane Corso's ears should be checked regularly for signs of infection, and the teeth should be brushed often, using a toothpaste designed for dogs. [1]
AKC-recommended health tests for breeding dogs: Patella Evaluation, Hip Evaluation, Elbow Evaluation, Cardiac Exam, Dental Skeletal Retinal Atrophy (DSRA) - DNA Test, Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis (NCL1) - DNA Test. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [3] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [4] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- The AKC first recognized the Cane Corso in 2010. [1]
- It ranked No. 11 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list, compared with No. 35 in 2015. [2]
- Its nickname is the “Corso (plural: Cani Corsi).” [1]
- The AKC lists Italy as the breed's country of origin. [1]
- The AKC includes it in its “Largest Dog Breeds” breed lists. [1]
Good fit for
- ✅ Active owners who can give daily exercise (AKC energy 4/5)
- ✅ First-time trainers who want an eager learner (AKC trainability 4/5)
- ✅ People who want less dog hair at home (AKC shedding 2/5)
Common questions
How long do Cane Corsos live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 9-12 years.
How big does a Cane Corso get?
AKC breed information lists height 25-27.5 inches (male), 23.5-26 inches (female) and weight Proportionate to height.