The king corso is a dog breed that towers over even the typical large dogs. They are well-built dogs that stand up to 28 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh an impressive 110 pounds, with some reaching even higher. This gives them a place among the largest dog breeds in the world.
The build of this breed alone makes them attractive to individuals and families who are looking for a guard dog that will make anyone intending to cause harm think twice. That, of course, comes on top of their naturally protective temperament. After all, these dogs were utilized for this purpose throughout the centuries they have existed in their native lands, which is Italy.
Whether you are considering getting a king corso or are simply interested in this breed, we’re here to cover everything you need to know. Read on below to learn all about the king corso dog breed.
What Is the King Corso?
The king corso is an Italian mastiff-type dog, with a long history of protecting homes, livestock, and any given territory. While the name “king corso” can be confusing for some, thinking that these dogs are simply large cane corsos, it isn’t entirely true.
Although some refer to larger cane corsos as king corsos, they are used interchangeably. Therefore, a king corso is simply a cane corso, regardless of the size.
King Corso Dog Breed Characteristics
Here are the king corso’s breed characteristics to help you learn more about this unique guardian dog.
We will cover their temperament, size, health, grooming needs, and more.
Temperament
The highlight of the king corso’s temperament is how protective they are around strangers and affectionate with the family. This combination is what makes them a renowned guardian for families, especially for households with children. However, this temperament also calls for an experienced owner who can provide proper socialization and training to ensure their protectiveness doesn’t get out of hand.
Size
The king corso is among the largest dog breeds, both in terms of height and weight. According to Dog Academy’s guide for the king corso dog, they weigh between 80 and 110 pounds and stand anywhere from 20 to 28 inches tall at the shoulder. Considering how big they are, king corsos need adequate space to live a comfortable life. They certainly aren’t a dog for a small apartment.
Exercise Needs
King corsos are among the most athletic and energetic large dog breeds. These dogs need daily exercise of at least one hour to keep a healthy, happy life. This can be in the form of a casual walk around the neighborhood, playing games like fetch, solving dog puzzles, and even socializing with other friendly dogs. As long as it involves moving their body or putting their minds to work, it will be adequate for king corsos.
Health
King corsos are large dogs, and as you can expect, they mainly suffer from large dog health problems. Although they are generally healthy dogs that lead long lives without any apparent health problems, king corsos are still prone to developing hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, joint problems, and other mobility issues. Some are also at risk of skin problems and food allergies, which are easier to spot early and take action to prevent.
Coat Type and Grooming
The king corso has a short, smooth coat that doesn’t require much upkeep. These dogs only need to be brushed once a week or so, but not in the traditional sense. King corsos don’t need a slicker brush or another typical brush used for most dog breeds. They are best groomed using a rubber grooming mitt to remove dead hair. Occasional baths also help, though frequent bathing should be avoided as it can strip natural oils from their coat.
Should You Get a King Corso Dog?
With their large size, protective temperament, and training and socialization needs, king corsos aren’t for every dog owner. These dogs need an experienced owner who can provide a comfortable living space that can accommodate their large frame.
If you have the experience needed for these dogs and can help a king corso channel their instincts in the right direction, then there’s no reason for the king corso not to be a good dog for you. As long as you get a king corso that’s going to be a companion that matches your lifestyle and household, you will have many years with a loyal, loving companion ready to act in seconds if they sense a danger to their family.