Exaggerated skeletal and weight problems are common in large dog breeds, especially when those dogs are removed from their natural environments, where they would normally be quite active. Because they were isolated and bred in a small area for so long, these canines suffer from a wide range of genetic defects. It’s important to take extra precautions to avoid injuring them throughout the three to four years it takes for their bones to fully mature because they’re already rather large at birth.

Puppies of the Cane Corso breed usually take between 18 and 24 months to reach full size. Cane Corso puppies grow quickly in length and height for the first 8 to 9 months of their lives, and then their growth rates level off a bit when the adolescent Cane Corso “fills out” by putting on muscle and fat. Socially, Cane Corso pups develop quite steadily: they approach adolescence at around six months, sexual maturity at 10-11 months, and are usually considered mentally mature at 20-22 months.

It’s important to remember that this breed requires early and consistent socialisation and training. Great Pyrenees dogs are independent thinkers and naturally protective of their owners and their property; however, if they are not properly socialised as puppies, they may become fearful of and even aggressive towards strangers and other animals. The chart below details key points in the evolution of the Cane Corso.

The Cane Corso has the personality of a gentle giant who is always prepared to defend its family. These canines have the traits of being smart, patient, and able to differentiate friends from foes. They have a strong sense of autonomy, but they are incredibly devoted to their loved ones. They’ll bark to warn long before they leap to attack, and if they attack, it’s for a good reason.

However, the Cane Corso does have some annoying quirks. Sometimes they just flat out ignore you when you phone them. When walking, they may suddenly stop and refuse to go any further. (They may do this to cool off if the weather is particularly hot, as is believed to occur frequently.) They may also exhibit excessive barking, the cause of which could be a variety of problems requiring your attention.

Cane Corsos are large dogs with double coats that are usually white (or white with darker patterns), so it stands to reason that they require a great deal of maintenance. But that’s not the case with dogs of this breed. Grooming a Cane Corso does not require a lot of time. The dirt-resistant coats of GPs mean that they only need baths once every two to three months; despite their heavy shedding, GPs’ hair rarely tangles or mats, so they only need a once- or twice-weekly brushing (explained in more depth in the “Brushing” section) to remove the shed debris. And depending on how short you like your hair, a GP will require a “touch-up” every three months using clippers or scissors.

The Cane Corso is a very large dog. Males can weigh more than 160 pounds and measure up to 32 inches in height. Size was an issue, but it was crucial for the safety of animals and property.

The Great Pyrenees is bred for protection, but that doesn’t mean they should be timid or violent without provocation. The breed typically exhibits demure, placid, and solemn demeanour. This dog breed is known for its bravery and devotion to family. The breed is excellent and very gentle with youngsters and does well with other animals.

In colder regions, Cane Corsos are considered to be medium shedders, whereas in warmer climes, they are thought to be heavy shedders. It takes at least 30 minutes a week to keep a Cane Corso’s coat clean and tangle-free. Because their coats clean themselves, they only need baths when they start to smell. A daily stroll of 20-30 minutes is sufficient to satisfy their activity needs, which are low for a dog of their size.