If you’ve thought about adopting a Cane Corso, you may wonder whether they are prone to being aggressive.
Because of their protective nature, Cane Corsi may seem intimidating towards strangers and various animals. Let’s explore how aggressive they really are!
When Do Cane Corsi Get Aggressive?
Cane Corsi are naturally aggressive because of their protective, guarding, and territorial nature. They are not the friendliest dogs to strangers and animals. It is essential to properly train them at a young age to prevent any aggressive behavior when they get older.
Here is what you need to know about what makes the Cane Corso aggressive, factors contributing to their aggressive behavior, and solutions for prevention.
What Can Make A Cane Corso Aggressive?
Many factors can make a Cane Corso aggressive. Fear, possessiveness, and even social behaviors are why they act aggressively. Here are some factors that can contribute to their aggressive behavior.
Fear
A large dog breed like a Cane Corso may act aggressively out of fear and feel the need to defend themselves. This behavior may be caused by a lack of socialization, negative experiences from other dogs or abusive behavior from a past owner.
Social Aggressive Behavior
This usually occurs when there are multiple dogs in a household. Sometimes the “Alpha” dog may act aggressively towards a new pack member if they feel there is a disturbance.
Territorial/Possessive Behavior
Cane Corsi can show possessiveness on things they care about the most. For instance, their favorite dog toy, food, their owner, or dog treats.
Why Is My Cane Corso Aggressive?
As previously stated, Cane Corsi can show their aggressive side due to their territorial and possessive background. Here are some reasons why they can come off as aggressive.
The Cane Corso is protective of you and his closest family members. However, they are not the friendliest towards strangers.
For example, if you have a visitor or are taking your dog for a walk, your Cane may act aggressively because they believe something is there to attack you.
Cane Corsi can also be aggressive because they are considered “dominant dogs.” Dominant behavior can be expressed by snapping or growling if asked to move. Moreover, this dog breed is known for testing boundaries.
That is why socialization is an essential part of training a Cane Corso.
What If My Cane Corso Is Aggressive Towards Other Dogs?
As previously stated, Cane Corsi are not the friendliest towards strangers. This also applies to various breeds of dogs.
If you own this breed or are considering ownership, here are some reasons why they can be aggressive toward other canines.
A Cane Corso is considered a “large” dog breed and will more than likely attack other dogs if they pose a threat to humans, especially in a public environment.
Furthermore, a Cane Corso might do well with other dogs but may show aggressive behavior of the same sex. If they are raised with other puppies, they are likely to get along but will try to win over their dominance towards them.
How To Prevent Aggression In Cane Corsi?
Aggressive behavior can be prevented if a Cane Corso is adequately socialized and trained in social obedience at an early age. Here are some ways to avoid sudden aggressive behavior.
● Socialization: It is stated that the first 16 weeks are crucial for a Cane Corso. It is essential to take your dog out to explore new surroundings and meet new people and other dogs during this period. This can make them more approachable when strangers come around.
● Obedience Training: You want to begin obedience training when they are young. This dog breed is eager to please its owner. Moreover, because of their independent background, they are straightforward to train. You don’t want to wait until they reach adolescent age. Otherwise, you may find the training process difficult.
● Exercise: Your dog requires regular exercise to ensure any pent-up energy is released. This includes both physical exercise and mental stimulation. Consistent exercise will reduce the likelihood of undesirable and destructive behaviors, including aggression.
● Leadership Practices: A Cane Corso will observe your behavior and challenge your dominance. You can show leadership tactics by telling your dog to sit still before feeding him.
● Prevent Aggressive Acts: Your dog may show mild aggressive behaviors such as growling, staring at a stranger, or barking. You can prevent this by using obedience commands.
How To Discipline a Cane Corso?
A Cane Corso needs proper discipline to prevent aggressive behavior. This can be done by showing discipline in a positive environment. Here are some tactics you can use.
Encourage your Cane Corso with positivity and reward them when it is necessary. You can shape good behavior by using reward training. For example, teach them simple commands like “sit,” “come,” or “stay.” It is also to incorporate positive body language during the training process.
Clicker training is another excellent way to discipline your dog. It involves using an audio cue when your dog performs a specific behavior. Some examples include using a snap, clap, or whistle. Once they perform the desired behavior, you can reward them with a treat.
What Is The Temperament of a Cane Corso?
The Cane Corso is a large breed that originates from Italy and is a breed of the mastiff. They were initially bred to be guardians or companion dogs. Aside from their large appearance, here are some characteristics of this dog breed.
The Cane Corso is very affectionate towards their closest family members, but proper training is crucial.
Because of their affection towards family, their guarded, protective nature will occur if they believe you are in danger. They are also very eager to please, and their intelligence makes them highly trainable.
Moreover, Cane Corsi are very attentive, quiet, and even-tempered. They can easily detect the slightest amount of danger in a household. Because of their protective nature, they make for excellent watchdogs.
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How To Calm Down A Cane Corso?
It is essential to find ways to calm down an aggressive Cane Corso. There are many factors to look for to help you prevent their sudden behavior. Here are some ways to handle a Cane Corso.
It is essential to notice your dog’s body language. For instance, if you see your dog’s ears are pointed forward or their fur sticking out, this shows agonistic aggression. If your dog’s ears are back, their tail is tucked, or their body is lowered, this may signify feared aggression.
First, you want to pay attention to warning signs and body language. If you notice your dog walking away from you or someone else, let them be. You want to avoid any threatening behaviors by protecting these techniques:
● Don’t lean on them
● Turn to the side
● Avoid direct eye contact
● Do not corner your Cane Corso
It is essential to remain calm and keep your dog in a closed room until it is safe to do so.
Can A Cane Corso Turn On Their Owners?
Dogs are considered “pack” animals, which involves taking the leadership role. As a dog owner, it is essential to show your Cane Corso that you are the “alpha.” But will they turn on their owners?
As previously mentioned, Canes are very independent, and improper training and socialization can result in them showing dominance to their owners and other animals. Moreover, if a Cane is mistreated, it can result in dangerous situations.
Are Cane Corsi Good With Kids?
Cane Corsi can be great family dogs, but some may fear their compatibility with children. Here’s what you need to know.
In short, Canes are great with children because they are willing to protect them. But even with proper training, it is not recommended to keep them around small children.
Because of their large size, they are likely to knock over a small child. They can also injure them if there is rough play involved. Furthermore, it is essential to teach your children how to behave around a Cane Corso.
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When Should I Consult A Behaviorist?
Cane Corsi can seem like a lot to handle, mainly because of their large size and what they’re bred to do. If you are having trouble with your dog’s aggressive behavior, here’s when you should consult a behaviorist.
You should consult a behaviorist if you notice any aggressive behavior towards you, your family, or other animals. In addition, your dog may act out of aggression due to anxiety issues. This may result from the trauma of a past owner, separation issues, or certain phobias.
Another reason to consult a behaviorist is if he acts out of aggression due to underlying health issues. Canes can develop health conditions such as hip dysplasia, eye damage, allergies, or cancer.
The Cane Corso can appear intimidating and aggressive, but they are very loving towards those they are closest to.
They may also come off as aggressive due to their protective nature. Understanding and recognizing the various factors as outlined will help minimize any unwanted aggression in your Cane Corso.
