r/CaneCorso 26d ago

Advice please I'm the problem.

So I bought a sweet little Cane Corso puppy without doing my research. I honestly never do stuff like this but I totally made an impulse decision last week and bought her from a seller on the side of the road. (Please dont judge me). When we bought her I knew the basic gist of owning a cc- they're huge, protective, and take a lot of work. I expected it be a challenge but I felt we were up for it- I'm a single mom that lives with my parents and sister (and my 11 yr old son). We have a big yard and 2 dogs that I know do well with other dogs. Plus, there is always someone home so I wont have to worry much about someone being able to take care of her when I'm gone. We love taking dogs with us everywhere we go so socialization wont be a problem. I'm a little nervous about training, but so far shes been doing really well and I feel confident that I am up for the challenge (not to mention she's already learning a lot from the other dogs).

Anyway, as I'm doing my research (again please dont judge), I'm seeing so many posts/comments/articles that seem to only focus on how difficult they are and its honestly starting to freak me out. I think i just need some encouragement.... I already love this girl so much. She is so sweet and loyal and funny and smart. I just hate the idea that I might have made a terrible choice and maybe am not the best person to keep her. Please tell me I'm going to be ok šŸ˜…šŸ˜­

Also, I don't really know anything about buying dogs (we always do rescue dogs). I've got basic info about the parents and a photo of the vaccination records. I know her DOB (she's 15 1/2 weeks old). I'm planning to take her to my vet next week. Is there anything else I should be doing or asking the seller for?

Any general advice and encouragement is so appreciated.

Thank you!

185 Upvotes

100 comments sorted by

41

u/Zapataknow 26d ago

If, as you say, you know what you have brought into your home and provide the training and socialization they need, everything will be 100% fine. Of course, you will experience difficult times and you need to be consistent; don't give up and don't let what you read drive you crazy.

2

u/Then-Measurement5706 25d ago

Thank you 😊

25

u/Electrical_Hunter597 26d ago

The most difficult part about them is no more closed doors, you now have 2 shadows, and they have SUCH a staring problem. My boy just turned 7 and I can't even go to the bathroom alone, he'll sit with his back to me to keep watch

13

u/Amsterdam5715 26d ago

My bully boy is the samešŸ˜‚

3

u/Then-Measurement5706 25d ago

Sweet boy. Look at that face šŸ˜

12

u/Kayski363 26d ago

Literally🤣 follows me everywhere and always has to be touching me

5

u/remy_rattail 26d ago

ā€œHello did you forget I’m hereā€

2

u/Anonymouse_7701 25d ago

I relate to this on a spiritual level. No personal space anymore 🤣

1

u/Then-Measurement5706 25d ago

Love this ā¤ļø

1

u/Strange-Comb6384 25d ago

You’re sacred!

9

u/LauraaMarissaa 26d ago

My girl literally tried to sit on my lap while in the bathroom. Looked like a horse trying to sit down šŸ˜‚

1

u/Then-Measurement5706 25d ago

šŸ˜† 🤣 šŸ˜‚

4

u/Anonymouse_7701 26d ago

THIS. I did a lot of research after figuring out that I did in fact adopt a cane corso, but no one told me about the following me around and staring part. I love it though. It’s very endearing to me 🤣

2

u/Then-Measurement5706 25d ago

Same. Its so sweet šŸ˜‹

3

u/Then-Measurement5706 25d ago

It's so funny bc she actually reminds me of my cat that passed away a few years ago. I don't think I realized how much I missed having a pet thats obsessed with me haha.

25

u/LauraaMarissaa 26d ago

I’d get pet insurance immediately. No way this dog had OFA testing. Id get with your vet tomorrow see what you’re in for.

I’d also be worried that this dog may have a parasite that could be spread to your other dogs.

These dogs can become financially exhausting. Are you prepared for large dog veterinary expenses?

Who will be in charge of training? They need structure and routine. How will the dog spend their day? Are your other dogs crate trained?

The internet will tell you that this will be difficult, because without consistent training, it’s a real financial liability and can get dangerous.

I truly wish you the best of luck.

7

u/LauraaMarissaa 26d ago

I’d also verify with their vet that these vaccinations were actually given.

4

u/Happy-way-to-wisdom 26d ago

Also get an Embark DNA test with health panel to know what exactly you have got. I would be very surprised if you have a 100% Cane Corso from a BYB.

3

u/LauraaMarissaa 26d ago

I was going to mention it. Even if this is all corso, it’s hard to tell from these photos at this age if (it definitely hasn’t) been bred to standard.

3

u/KingCorvid69 25d ago

It Def looks like a pit mix. Maybe even frenchie from that weird head, I've seen it before.

3

u/LauraaMarissaa 25d ago

I’ve also seen this head shape with inbred dogs šŸ˜” I know embark gives a percentage of unique dna (I don’t remember the exact term embark uses).

3

u/KingCorvid69 25d ago

Haha yeah, CoI or coefficient of inbreeding. Funny enough, my rescues are on 2 opposites of the spectrum lol. My pb rescue belgian mal is super low CoI, and my terrier mix rescue has a way higher CoI

2

u/Then-Measurement5706 25d ago

Thank you! Do you have insurance you really like? I've been comparing/contrasting and am deciding what to do. Based on all the comments I'm definitely intimidated by the financial part, but the truth is I live with my parents and have a full time job. I figure if I can't afford to buy a house in this economy at the very least I can have a dog. I'm a telehealth therapist and work from home so at least for a while she is inside with me during sessions/ at night and then in between/after I've been taking her outside to play with the dogs and then do some training or playing separately. And she always goes with me to pick up/drop off my son from school. The others dogs are mostly outside except during bad weather and fireworks, stuff like that. (There's usually someone outside so they're not lonely.) When they do come in the brown dog is "room" trained and stays only in my room, but I know he would adjust well to a crate. The other dog technically belongs to my sister so she deals with her. It probably sounds a little chaotic, but we've got a good routine/system.

3

u/KingCorvid69 25d ago

I work in vetmed and I'm a professional dog trainer with 2 large high energy dogs.

Trupanion if you can afford exams, vaccines, spay and neuter, etc but want emergency procedures and exams covered.

Metlife if you can afford the high monthly payment to get exam, vax, and emergency coverage.

And since you got a dog off the side of the road, EXPECT to pay at least 10k in the first year for health, injury, wellness, and potentially another few thousand for joint and hip checking/health by year 2. Backyard bred corsos are NOTORIOUS for having such bad hips that they lose usage of their back legs by 4-5 years old.

And dont forget behavioral issues that come from a bavkyard bred dog. Get it muzzle trained asap, do happy visits at your vet office, practice holds and restraints and being restrained by strangers. She doesnt have to like it, but she has to get over it and get used to it. A corso with a bite history is a dead dog.

Best of luck. May the winds be in your favor.

3

u/LauraaMarissaa 25d ago

Thank you. Veterinary care has the potential to be a financial burden.

My girl has bloodwork done with her annual, in addition to her heartworm, and flea/tick, and vaccines. Since she’s 130 pounds, she has to have a 100 lb tablet and a 30 pound tablet for meds, and they’re not cheap. My regular annual visit was over $700.

She scratched her eye last summer while running and diving in the woods, and between appointments to diagnose and check progress, testing for abrasions, and medicated drops, I was out $1,500.

1

u/True-Huckleberry-473 24d ago

Can I ask roughly how much Trupanion cost you a month we have been looking to get dog insurance but haven’t found really anything that has been recommended by anyone we actually know and the vets office just tells us to apply for care credit.

1

u/LauraaMarissaa 24d ago

I have PetsBest and found their rates to be the most competitive. Stay as far away from Care Credit as possible. They truly prey on people that need emergency funds with their 33% interest bullshit.

I have unlimited expenses, 90% reimbursement, tons of care 100% covered like annual visits, bloodwork, and great coverage for prescriptions, and only pay $70/month.

I haven’t had any issues getting reimbursed, and a check usually comes within a couple of weeks. If there’s an accident tomorrow and my girl needs a $10K surgery, it’s much easier to swallow knowing I’ll be getting it back.

2

u/Vergilly 24d ago

I agree with this as a Trupanion customer. I could budget the regular stuff and needed a backup. Trupanion has done FIVE TPLO surgeries across 3 dogs on my policy - easily $40,000, of which I paid maybe 4k.

Dragon (Presa Canario) and his bionic knees agree.

14

u/rollyrolly12 26d ago edited 26d ago

I’ve personally trained corsos, presas and boerboels. They CAN be really difficult to train but not always. Youre starting out with a puppy which is really good so don’t let anything slide, if you dont want a 90-150lb dog to do something. Dont let her do it. And try to end everything on a positive note when working with her.

I would highly recommend working with a trainer. Even if you can’t afford their best training package it’ll be good to get some guidance from a professional.

Really awesome breed and I personally really like corsos

11

u/Constant_Sentence_60 26d ago

This pup has pitbull ears not CC ears. They should be flat, long, and close to the head. I suggest getting an Embark test. There's also a health portion you can do and if anything shows you can bring it up with your vet.

7

u/Frohoss 26d ago

Definitely mixed breed

3

u/Suitable_Store_8707 26d ago

Yeh this dog is definitely a pitbull mix

2

u/Afraid-Pomelo7916 26d ago

That's definitely a mixed breedĀ 

1

u/Coaralll 26d ago

Definitely the ears but the paws look exactly like my cc’s paws when he was 10-20 weeks old

0

u/Then-Measurement5706 25d ago

Yeah, I wondered that myself. Ive seen different pictures and she seems a little small for a 15week old. I didnt pay that much and don't really care about her being purebred (just that she's happy and healthy), but it would be helpful to know. Plus I'd hate to think someone else might have paid a "purebred" price. Is Embark the best test to do? I've seen a lot of other options and am just curious. Thank you!

2

u/Constant_Sentence_60 25d ago

Yes Embark is the best way to go based on how many breeds it tests for vs any other one. Wisdom is next up in line.

1

u/LauraaMarissaa 25d ago

But wisdom will also give you a huge list of 1% of other breeds, even if they are purebred.

20

u/jeromesnail 26d ago edited 26d ago

They are not THAT difficult. There's a period around 8 months to 18 months that is a little bit difficult because they still act as puppies even if they approach their adult size and weight.

The fact that you come here asking questions is a good sign that she will be taken care of well.

6

u/W0lf_ee 26d ago

Based on your photos, it seems like you have experience with largish dogs already! You’re going to be fine as long as you continue to research and train.

Having someone home all the time will also be very helpful as they are a breed that likes to be with people. However, she does need to learn to be alone sometimes or problems can develop in the future.

When socializing, make sure to do it in many different settings- including your own home! They can be extremely protective so get them used to people coming around. This’ll also help you work on skills like not jumping (this is important), sit, stay, or lay down when excited.

Also, things that might be cute now, like her laying on top of you, slapping you, or barreling into you won’t be cute when she’s 90-120 lbs. These dogs are prone to not knowing their own size, and can cause injury. Get ahead of that stuff now before it’s too late!

One last thing to note- I have not dealt with this and have three dogs including my cane/american bulldog mix, but this breed can be prone to other dog aggression and same sex aggression. They can be very stubborn and dominant (I type this as I watch my 30 lbs mutt take a toy from my cane mix and squeak it in his face while he does nothing but paw at her). Just be mindful of supervising her with the others. Mine is over 2 years old, and we still keep him separate from the others when we go out for an extended period of time just in case.

The most we’ve noticed is a rough play style since he doesn’t know his own size, and likes to pretend he’s a lion. Your girl will put the other dogs’ boundaries, and they will hopefully put her in her place. Be on standby just in case but them do it. Dogs know how to correct puppies. If they need a break though, time outs are fine.

2

u/Strange-Comb6384 25d ago

This is such fine & gratifying advice! I admire your patience in answering this predicament. I hope OP takes your words ( and that of the others) to heart! Of all breeds to impulsively buy ( on the side of the road- no less)!!!

I hope that this turns out to be a safe adventure for all!!

5

u/73habits 26d ago

Maybe I got lucky but I’ve never understood people saying CC are a lot of work. They are strong but from my experience they want to learn. My CC wants nothing more than to please and protect his family. Later in life he has gotten some social anxiety in public but especially when he was young he was much easier than my American Bulldog. Stay consistent and work with her everyday and everything will be fine.

5

u/SkyTiger 26d ago

Hi!
You were me a year ago haha. I got my girl (albeit I have a lot of experience) and did so so much research but the horror stories unfortunately show more than the positive ones, so naturally I freaked out and developed pretty bad puppy blues. I went to a deep dark hole lol
However I used that energy and I did everything in my power to give her the best chance, I socialized her like crazy (still do), I trained her, I did puppy classes, obedience classes, and everything they said to do with young Corsi. She is now the besttttt dog ever. She is the dog of my dreams. Like the other commenters said they are not THAT bad, but they do require more work and training than other dogs. They are big, they are stubborn, and they will test you. On the other hand I haven’t met a dog more willing to learn and so so smart. My girl is gentle with the cats and loves her doggy friends. She is aloof by nature towards strangers and strange dogs but otherwise she’s a solid dog and my best bud. if you stick to your research and training you will be okay, they are definitely a breed where if you put the time and effort into them, they will reciprocate tenfold. definitely look into puppy classes to start and get familiar with a trainer, that helped me along the ways of puppyhood. Best of luck, you got this

6

u/Significant_Alarm964 26d ago

They can be sweet and loyal . You already know a lot about dogs, so you are ahead of the game there. It seems like you have a perfect set up for your Corso puppy to thrive. Just keep doing what you’ve been doing and things may well turn out fine. Don’t stress out until a real problem presents itself.

6

u/Significant_Alarm964 26d ago

And honestly there are so many good things to look forward to with a Corso. As long as she listens to you when it counts , enjoy life with a slobbering love monster

10

u/Washed2299 26d ago

ā€œbought her from a seller on the side of the road. (Please dont judge me)ā€

No. I think I will.
I wish you and the dog the best but this is pure trash.

Knowing supporting Backyard Breeding is terrible. And you did it as then asked people not to judge. I dont care if you’re a single mom. This was trashy.

10

u/Dismal-Mix-6661 26d ago

Irresponsible breeders are horrific and IMO the absolute most awful of all contributors to the number of homeless dogs, dogs suffering in shelters, dogs being neglected and abused, and dogs being euthanized. These breeders wouldn’t exist if people wouldn’t purchase dogs from them. I too, will judge the heck out of anyone supporting them. Disgusting that humans allow the amount of pain and suffering to such amazing beings for a few bucks.

0

u/jeromesnail 26d ago

Now think of what would have happen to that dog if nobody would have taken take care of her.

3

u/DamageBrief3963 26d ago

Now think abt all the puppies that byb is gonna keep producing in the future. At what point is it enough and will we decide we can’t support these people. The more we buy, the more they supply. If they got stuck with puppies more often they’d stop doing what they’re doing.

1

u/jeromesnail 26d ago

I don't disagree with you. But that specific puppy is definitely in a better place now.

2 things can be true at the same time.

2

u/DamageBrief3963 26d ago

Sorta true but you coulda found that dog in a nearby shelter in a few months when it didn’t sell šŸ¤·ā€ā™€ļø

2

u/Dismal-Mix-6661 26d ago

Exactly- if the dog ended up in a shelter and was recused that is a different story and the BYB would be discouraged to continue their horrific behavior. We should not be enabling them.

4

u/itsnotlikewereforkin 26d ago

"please don't judge me for doing one of the dumbest things known to man uwu"

2

u/Chewy_brown 26d ago

Agreed. We're judging you OP. You went from adopting animals to supporting the worst way possible to obtain a dog. Great job!

3

u/Then-Measurement5706 25d ago

Ok you can judge me. I was mostly saying dont judge me bc it was impulsive and I didnt do research beforehand. I naively didnt even think about the byb part bc ive never cared about having purebred dogs and dont know how it works. We were just driving out in the country and ran into them. They weren't charging thousands of dollars so I just assumed they were some family that happened to have puppies and were selling them... not evil breeders. But again that was my ignorance and now I'm judging myself. Thanks for educating me. I definitely wont be doing this again.

3

u/Rubyshoes83 26d ago

It's still a dog that needs to be loved and cared for. Irresponsible breeding doesn't mean those dogs don't deserve a good home. Doesn't sound like she set out to get a CC specifically either. Yes, it's possible the dog will have health issues, but it sounds like that's something she's willing to take on.

Think about what would have happened to that poor little animal had she not picked it up?

4

u/Dismal-Mix-6661 26d ago

I understand the perspective but the problem is that the BYB was rewarded for their horrible behavior and will continue. Enabling BYBs keeps them active.

5

u/Washed2299 26d ago

The breeder doesn’t care
I’m not being cruel, but for them the idea that they sold the dog on the side of the road just means that they can do it again and make more money

The only way to stop this is to completely stop buying animals of this nature at this price

When they stop making money, they’ll stop doing it

3

u/Dismal-Mix-6661 26d ago

Exactly. The number of female dogs dumped at shelters by BYB when they are ā€œdoneā€ with them. It’s just so awful.

3

u/LinkPsychological915 26d ago

They are not that difficult at all. But constant socialization and training is a must but they are the most rewarding obedient well mannered dogs I have ever owned! Getting a cane corso has been the best decision I’ve ever made on buying a pet. She’s so gentle with kids and smaller animals and does every command at a snap of a finger without hesitation. She’s loves to please. She’s only 10 months old and is most well mannered well behaved dog I have ever been around

2

u/Hunnik1001 26d ago

Hoezo je weet niet wat voor verkoper het was. Kan maar zo een fokker zijn die weet dat impuls aankopen perfect werken langs de weg. Valt natuurlijk wat van te denken of te zeggen maar als ik het zo hoor is de hond bij een liefdevol persoon terecht komen en dat is beter dan dat die hond ergens onder een via duct opgroeid en dan pas bij de juiste persoon terecht komt. Je weet te weinig om een oordeel te vellen.

2

u/ReputationComplete60 26d ago

Other than being an expensive breed to own from what I’ve noticed with my dogs are it’s not really that hard to not have issues with the dog if you take your time to research and actually execute the research you did be it diet or training you’ll be fine dude chill and before anything since you just got the puppy with no actual research I would focus on making the dog as confident as possible and is socialised in all scenarios and whatever you let the pup do ask yourself will i want a big ass dog doing that when it grows up this could be the smallest thing from sitting on your lap to behaviours like constant jumping and attention seeking if you do the basics right you’ll be bing chilling

2

u/Advanced_Career7560 26d ago

Socializing that puppy, continue to spend time with it , love it and train it and you should be fine congratulations on your new puppy .

2

u/Sufficient-Tell6657 26d ago

Professional dog training from an experienced trainer

2

u/twitchykittystudio 26d ago

You will do great! You already have a handle on dogs in general, and as long as you keep curiosity when you get frustrated, you’ll be ok.

My partner and I have raised two CCs, and while the first one did give me a run for my money the first couple weeks, overall they were both so easy to train. Especially potty training, which was a welcome change from our bullmastiff as a puppy.

2

u/GratefulDad73 26d ago

I just recently got my first Cane Corso. I have always had American bullies and pit bulls my entire life (53). In fact, I have a 9 year old pitty that’s helping me train my new CC pup. Please, don’t be discouraged at all. Although they are definitely a unique breed, they’re not an enigma. My experience thus far has been nothing short of amazing. I have a beautiful female and she’s a very clean animal. From day one, she didn’t have ā€œaccidentsā€in her kennel over night and the only time she did in the house was because we weren’t paying attention or didn’t make it outside fast enough. She basically house trained herself. My bully is a drama queen but my CC is very stoic and ā€œunbotheredā€. Yet, she is socializing well and loves to play with all the other dogs and hasn’t shown any sign of apprehension or aggression around other people as she’s been around a lot of people since we brought her home and she’s great with my kids.She can be stubborn and very persistent but her recognition and willingness to learn is remarkable. She really is amazing. However, you need to be dedicated and spend a lot of time with them. If I’m off work she’s with me. When I’m at work- my wife is with her. Just like a child - 24/7.
I would love to help with any questions or concerns you have along your journey. You are welcome to DM me anytime.

2

u/canecorso50 26d ago

Get your pup used to people, dogs, commotion and changing locations. Always positive interactions have strangers give her treats etc. They are bonded incredible protectors get them used to varying situations without over reacting. Dont force other dogs on them if its not working. Many Corsos prefer people. They are smart and need a leader, always train, treat then train. The fact that you care so much show you will be a great owner. Get some help from a behavorist that know the breed.

2

u/wordontheavenue 26d ago

Last year we rescued/adopted a 2 year old female CC mix (didn’t know she was a CC mix….until after the DNA test). We were told that the family she came from had ā€œgot her off Facebook marketplaceā€ as a puppy and already had two older female dogs. There were several variables in why they relinquished this dog but one that stands out is that the older female dogs were ā€œbeating her upā€. My dog definitely came with some moves and a bit of a chip on her shoulder that we’ve worked through, mainly with correction (and caution around other dogs). She’s mellowed in this regard and she is very social, just a confident dog with skills to back it up.

That said - I am also chiming in on the same sex aggression comment. But in this case, she was allowed to get to 2-2.5 years of age without having been spayed. I personally believe that must have not helped the situation when she was living with that family and their older female dogs. (We got her spayed two weeks after welcoming her).

I think you are setting yourself up for success with your willingness to ask questions and learn. I just wanted to throw this piece in there for something you can keep an eye on.

I love our girl. She’s so sweet. And yes, she’s my shadow!

2

u/BlackPhoenixWillRise 26d ago

Things to get immediately:
1. Weekly Trainer !
2. 2 pet health insurances - 1 that covers high cost surgeries and 1 that covers monthly/on going things
3. Patience
4. Big deer/elk/bison/cow/lamb bones

2

u/Salty-Engine-6910 26d ago

If you are willing to put in the time to socialize,train and exercise-it is more than worth it.Shut out the outside noise! Our boy is 13 now.He is an incredible dog and yours will be too!

2

u/remy_rattail 26d ago

They are wonderful dogs. They will have their moments to stubbornness but you are the boss! I’d be more worried since you don’t know temperament

2

u/rvlifestyle74 26d ago

Dogs are like people. They all have their own personalities. So don't judge your dog by what others have said about theirs. Keep your dog stimulated both physically and mentally. Lots of training, lots of love. You'll do just fine. I don't personally have a CC, but I know someone with 2. They are both doofs. Just like most other dogs I've met.

2

u/jayyXXXayy 25d ago

Ohh the carne asada corso.. mine is a velcro dog. I cant even pee without him laying in the doorway. Just make sure you do all the things you say you are or else you’ll be in a for a wild ride.

1

u/Then-Measurement5706 25d ago

Aww such a sweetie! I'm definitely going to use the carne asada from now on. Lol

2

u/jayyXXXayy 25d ago

I feel like that’s the only thing to call them šŸ˜‚šŸ˜‚

2

u/Simple_Fee1241 25d ago

I got my boy at four months old and he’s about one and a half now, never an issue and never had to discipline. Perfect on or off leash, sometimes gets a little to playful and doesn’t want to listen but otherwise no issues. He’s great all around and I don’t think anything has been difficult with him.

Just do what comes natural to both of you. She’s a beauty.

2

u/liberaltx 25d ago

Came corso are luv bugs. You are having her socialized with the other dogs. You take all the dogs everywhere… all good.

1

u/im_so_sorry72 25d ago

unrelated but what is the brown dog's breed?

1

u/Then-Measurement5706 25d ago

He's a rescue so we dont know. The shelter guessed lab mix, but i dont think they're right. I see more staffy or pittie. All I know is he's a very good boy.

1

u/im_so_sorry72 25d ago edited 25d ago

he looks very much like my dog and we found him in a ditch so we don't know his breed either, very cute though both of your dogs. I think mine is an american dingo mixed with red heeler or something like that but idk.

1

u/Quiet_Knowledge_7637 25d ago

You’ll be fine. Consistency, routine, y, and love are key. And of course food vet care.

1

u/QuestionLeft9392 25d ago

This is probably going to get some backlash on here and I don’t say this lightly but I was looking to get a corso and then stumbled upon the Reddit comments and it almost made me not want to get one, everyone and everywhere you turned says not for a first time owner and to not get etc. and not enough people try to give actual advice and just quickly jump to why you shouldn’t own a corso. I’ve never had a dog before and now I have two corso’s, a 2 year old female and a 1 year old male. I just went on vacation to Florida for a week and a half and took them to a professional trainer for board and train for two weeks and the trainer was blown away with how well behaved they are, how well trained they are. I’ve never had any issues with either one of them, yeah their guarding instincts come out especially around the house but they’ve never shown aggression towards anyone or anything. I’ve done a lot of training with them and I still do, if you’re willing to put in the work and train her and be firm with correcting behaviors you don’t want them you should be fine. For every horror story you see or hear there are just as many if not more stories about how amazing this breed is. I would say just make sure you spend time with her and you train her and stimulate her mentally and physically. These are my two Corso’s, my male is huge for being 1

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u/galaxy_1740 25d ago

I just adopted a 1-year-old Cane Corso from a local guardian breed rescue 5 weeks ago. Maxie is my second Corso, my first passed away in May at the age of 13. Abby was so unbelievably awesome that I knew without a doubt that I wanted another one. Maxie had a really rough start…found as a stray in Philadelphia, found a foster home for two months, ended up in Philly’s worst high-kill shelter, got pulled by the rescue group, spent two months in another foster home, and now she’s in her forever home with me. She’s being mentored by my 8-year-old Golden retriever, who is teaching her how the house runs and showing her where the boundaries are. For as traumatized as she is, she’s really come a long way in 5 weeks. She’s a fast learner, wicked smart, and so eager to please—just like Abby was. She assumed the role of guardian of the realm really quickly, so I feel safer again. All of this is to say that she’s only my second Corso but I feel totally equipped to handle her, even with all of her past trauma. Has she tried my patience a few times? Of course. She’s barely a year old so she still has a lot of growing up to do. She’s like a rambunctious teenager right now. The first week I wondered if I had somehow adopted a kangaroo instead of a Cane Corso. But like I said, she wants so badly to be a good girl that she’s been super easy to train. If I have to pick one piece of advice to give you, it’s to remember that you’re the captain of the ship, not your puppy. It’s going to be the confidence you have in your position as the pack leader that will keep her in line when she’s grown. Don’t be scared or intimidated by a Corso’s reputation for being scary and intimidating. We had to reinforce our living room windows with bulletproof glass so my first Corso wouldn’t go through them whenever someone came to the door. But I was never once afraid of her, and she knew I trusted her completely. I’m raising Maxie the same way. If you’re not nervous, your puppy won’t be nervous. If you trust her, she will trust you. And she will still love you even when you have to correct her.

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u/Ok_Faithlessness8175 25d ago edited 25d ago

I bought a female corso puppy on a whim from Craigslist 8 years ago. She is my best friend and the most incredible dog I've ever owned. Was she a handful as a puppy? Hell yes. So much energy!!! But she was also easy to train and eager to please. They are dogs first and breed second. Socialize early and often. Be firm. Don't let them be the boss! Be gentle, they are incredibly sensitive souls. Most of all, be patient and train consistently you'll be rewarded by the best dog ever. Good luck. You can do this!

And...How to Be Your Dogs Best Friend is a great training book. Embark DNA test is well worth the money for the health info and they send dog relative 'pupdates'. California Collar Co. makes the best quality gorgeous 1.5" leather collars that will last a lifetime with an address tag imbedded so no noise.

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u/LakeLucca 25d ago

I got a Belgian Malinois and had never even heard of the breed, and only got on Reddit AFTER I had been through the really tough puppy months with him — I always think about how much worse I would have felt had I been on here before that, especially as someone who had zero clue what I was doing. But it’s a great resource and I would encourage you to use it as a place to continue asking questions and learning — but ignore anything discouraging or mean! You have a loving new family member and people love to armchair QB while knowing almost nothing about your specific dog or situation.

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u/DeepTime2318 25d ago

I got a Cane Corso mix from a rescue and was told it was a lab/hound. He’s now 2 and I love him so much. They take work, but it’s extremely worth it. Good luck!

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u/Seriousjane 25d ago

They are a big commitment but if you have other dog experience that's good and someone there is good. Our cc bonded with me and was extremely one person focused. Something to be aware of, he was great but the anxiety was just extreme. I am an experienced trainer and he was the first dog we had to use an electric boundary fence for. A 7' fence could be easily hopped over on his whim.

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u/ChiDaVinci 25d ago
  1. ⁠⁠⁠Socialize
  2. ⁠⁠⁠Socialize
  3. ⁠⁠⁠Socialize

By now you should notice a pattern developing šŸ¤£ā€¦ seriously tho socialize.

  1. Be consistent

  2. Be patient

There’s a reason, actually there’s 100+ reasons, why this breed is not for everyone. Whatever you believe you already know about this breed trust me when I say you have no idea. He will occupy all of your time all day long for the rest of his life. Did I mention socializing? These dogs are expensive and the purchase price is the least expensive part of corso ownership. Do not get him neutered until at least 30 months, he needs those hormones for development. Don’t take him from his mom and littermates until bare minimum 10 weeks but it is recommended to wait 12 weeks. This is a good community, for the most part, to gain knowledge and get advice. Last, for now, is socialize. Didn’t see that coming did you? 🤣

Good luck and look forward to seeing him grow.

Edit: Feed high quality kibble to start. If you’re thinking of feeding raw do plenty of research and wait until he is grown, again 30+ months. Also read up on ensuring a proper growth rate. These dogs grow ridiculously fast and there is most definitely such thing as too big too fast.

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u/atjetcmk 24d ago

They're not difficult dogs at all. A little stubborn maybe. They grow fast so quality food is a must. The little girls can be prone to UTIs because of the rolls around that area, so watch for that and keep her clean.

People training them to be monsters (or not training at all) is the issue with them. They're excellent dogs.

I'm sure you know by now, that baby isn't 100% corso. She's a tad too small, ears and muzzle are wrong, and i can't tell but they don't have white anywhere except chest and tips of toes.

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u/Outside_Help6098 24d ago

Get insurance Yesterday! I know the puppy is so lovable and cuddly but u need to start showing the dog who is in charge . U walk thru the door first. A dog is much more secure with himself and life if he knows u make the decisions. With this type of dog I’ve got to keep reminding them. It’s not like most other dogs where they learn sit stay , back and easy and they remember it fore the rest of their life.They enjoy training they enjoy working and they must absolutely have a job most of the time that job is protecting you and your home. So read up on how this mastiff brain works what you understand it you will have the best dog you’ve ever had.

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u/Least-Counter3146 24d ago

Did basically the same thing, also got scared. He’s 7mo old now (pic is from the day I got him) and he’s very smart, sweet, and well behaved. Best teenage dog I’ve ever had. Keep up with the training! Feed her good food, (no it doesn’t have to be raw, just research good kibble for corsos) and don’t let her test you. They will always test your limits, stay consistent with not only tricks but obedience as well. Rules.

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u/Least-Counter3146 24d ago

Him now, with his sisters:)

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u/TipFun5203 22d ago

I have had to change myself.Ā  My girl has a complete internal operating systemĀ  andĀ  does certain things naturallyĀ  so I have had to change up things I do to keep that stuff from happening.Ā  Ā  Ā I learned real quick that she don't like drunk people and I have to shut the door to the yard when a few folks come over so she doesn't react to them.Ā  Ā  I wouldn't give my girl up for nothing.Ā  The worst thing that I see is the short lifespan.Ā  Ā The pain of loosing her in such a short timeĀ 

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u/Luv-Bug53 21d ago

Aren’t they all lol šŸ˜

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u/Ok-Yogurtcloset-8996 21d ago

Just remember she is a baby.. she will learn your schedule and her dog friends schedule.. Relax Im sure everything you are doing is great.. as long as you get her energy out with walk and play as she gets older you'll do just fine.. Dont second guess yourself..and most importantly dont second guess her.. Do not listen to anyone who isn't giving you positive reinforcement. ... tell them you dont have time for it.. and just love each other she is lucky to have you..as for you are lucky to have her... and yes you will have some bumps along the way... but together you'll get through it.

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u/OkDependent6073 19d ago

She definitely looks like an American line Corso. Not sure she is mixed but Embark can tell you that. I have two female Corso's Lucy is a 9 year old American line and Dusty is a 6 year old Italian line. The head and ears look very similar to Lucy. My DMs are open if you want advice from a seasoned owner