When it comes to properly raising a large breed dog, the first and most basic factor for success is maintaining and strengthening the joints. Since during the first 3 years of life the bone structure is actively growing and gaining muscle mass, it is important to maintain a strict balance. Proper feeding Cane Corso, like any other dog, requires a balanced intake of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins and microelements. In theory, everything looks quite simple, but in practice, owners often make mistakes in preparing their pets’ diet.
Before buying a puppy, and even more so planning a diet for a Cane Corso, it is worth understanding all the intricacies concerning the metabolic processes of this breed. To begin with, we note that among these giants there are often allergy sufferers, and this is a rather complex problem. If we look at the issue globally, we can name two types of allergies - food or to any other substances from environment. Acute reactions to food can be avoided in two ways:
- Determine the allergen by exclusion and remove it from the diet.
- Switch your dog to hypoallergenic food.
The second is extremely important question– this is the control of the dog’s weight. Even in puppyhood, excess fat can have an extremely negative impact on the condition of the dog’s joints. There is a set of rules that will help control your pet’s weight at any age:
- Feed the Cane Corso strictly following the daily allowance. You can divide the food into 2-3 meals, but you should not overfeed your dog.
- The amount of carbohydrates should be compared with physical activity. If you are forced to reduce your exercise, then the calorie content of your diet needs to be reduced.
- When kept on a commercial diet, the pet may ask for supplements. The specificity of food granules is such that they gain volume after entering the stomach, that is, the pet does not immediately feel full. If your heart cannot stand the pleading eyes, it is better to give your pet a bone made from dried tendons, but again, do not overfeed. In the case of a natural diet, the pet can eat moslak or soft cartilage.
- Weigh your four-legged animal regularly. This elementary procedure allows you to fully control not only proper development, but also the rate of weight gain.
Read also: It's important to play with your dog
Industrial or natural food?
Perhaps you have already become a participant in the debate about which method of feeding is better, healthier, more natural. A reasonable person is unlikely to take a one-sided position, since both industrial and natural food are suitable for keeping a dog; the question is their quality and the method of feeding.
Below we will briefly discuss the main points:
- The Cane Corso is considered one of the most expensive dogs to own. Everything is quite simple, a tendency to allergies obliges the owner to buy hypoallergenic dry food for Cane Corso for life, and this is a considerable expense.
- Natural food is considered more natural to digest and there is some truth in this.
- Premium quality industrial food (selected according to the age, weight and breed of the dog) contains a full range of vitamins and microelements, which greatly simplifies the preparation of the diet. Basically, you just need to follow the instructions.
- If you are worried that your dog will get tired of eating only dry food, you can alternatively dilute the diet with semi-moist food of the same brand.
- Preparing a natural diet will require regular adjustments, depending on the season of the year and the condition of the pet. In addition, do not forget that even the highest quality products will not provide the four-legged animal with the necessary amount of vitamins and microelements.
Note! One of the main advantages of dry food is its long shelf life. You can be sure that you can feed your dog on your trip or leave dinner in automatic feeder, in case there is a possibility of being late from work.
Whatever feeding method you choose, it is worth remembering that a dog is not a person and does not need a riot of tastes and variety. It is strictly not recommended to mix industrial and natural food, otherwise you will knowingly cause harm digestive system ward. If you feed your dog dry food, then the treats should be industrial; in the case of “natural food”, you can use your favorite foods or pieces of dried meat as “goodies”.
Read also: Accustoming a puppy to a leash: detailed instructions
Making up a diet
So, by choosing industrial food, you make your life easier, since the calories and grams are already counted. On the back of any specialized product there is a table indicating the feeding rate for an adult Cane Corso, teenager, puppy or pregnant dog. If the food is universal, that is, “For large breeds,” you need to be guided by the weight of the pet.
Advice! Choose food that is strictly appropriate for the dog’s age and activity. A young and active pet should not receive food for older dogs, and a puppy should not receive food for adults. Lack or excess of vitamins, and especially calcium, is a secretive but formidable enemy of your ward’s health.
The next point that requires keen attention, this is the food for Cane Corso up to a year. A growing body requires more nutrients First of all, we are talking about proteins - milk, eggs, fish and meat. At the age of 1 month, the breeder weans the babies from maternal feeding by introducing complementary foods. If the nursery adheres to an industrial diet, then after the purchase you need to continue feeding the four-legged animal with its usual food. The adaptation period is 10–14 days, after which you can gradually transfer the puppy to “natural”. Based on the baby’s weight and activity, the total daily norm food, half of which consists of animal proteins.
- 2 months– 6 feedings per day.
- 3 months– 5 feedings per day.
- 4 months– a transitional stage lasting an average of 60 days. During this period, you need to reduce feeding to 4 meals.
- From 7 to 9 months We reduce the diet to 3 meals a day.
- From 9 to 12 months, gradually accustom the dog to two meals a day, morning and evening. Given the slow metabolism and tendency to gain excess weight, Cane Corso is recommended to be kept on 2 meals a day even at an older age.
Update: October 2017
Based on the totality of all its qualities, the Cane Corso can be called a universal dog. It belongs to those breeds that, despite fashion trends, remain at the peak of popularity. Breeders and owners note that she:
- retained the fighting spirit, unshakable perseverance and extraordinary strength of her ancestors;
- shows aggression only when necessary;
- perfectly “scans” and interprets gestures, facial expressions and behavior of others and reacts to them based on the complexity of the situation;
- has good security qualities;
- loves to fuss with the owners' children and tolerates their excessive display of affection;
- repels intruders with one appearance;
- charming and sociable, doesn’t mind communicating with all family members;
- multifunctional - can be a watchman, a shepherd and a pleasant companion;
- easily trains, does everything that the owner requires of her;
- unpretentious in content.
The breed has thicker skin than other Molossians. The thick-skinned Corso loves to roll in a puddle, dig in the ground, and swim in the river. She doesn't mind putting her paws in a bowl of water. Of course, she can be weaned off this. It's harder to deal with profuse salivation, night snoring, daytime grunting and sniffling. If these sounds irritate you, this breed is not for you.
Brief characteristics of the Cane Corso dog breed
How difficult is the Cane Corso breed to maintain and care for? |
For representatives Italian breed Cane Corso dogs are easy to groom. It does not require exhausting loads, is clean, proper education non-aggressive. Can be both a companion and a working dog. |
Do you feel comfortable in an apartment or prefer a country house? Do you need an aviary? |
Despite its large size, it is suitable for apartments and country houses. But the enclosure is not suitable for her. The breed requires constant contact with humans. In addition, people from warm Italy do not tolerate our winters well. If you decide on an enclosure, make a warm booth in it. |
How often should you bathe? |
If the pet does not participate in exhibitions, it is washed as needed, usually 2-4 times a year. Healthy dog It has sebaceous glands, creating a protective film on wool. From frequent washing the protection is washed away, and the glands hypertrophy. As a result, the coat becomes faded and greasy. |
Grooming. How often is it brushed? |
This is a short-haired breed. But she still sheds. If you want to reduce the frequency of house cleaning, brush your Cane Corso regularly, especially during periods of heavy shedding. |
Is it suitable for a child? |
The breed is well suited for families even with the smallest children. The pet patiently endures all the pranks of the kids. However, it requires firmness in education. It can be used by children aged 12–14 years. |
Frequency and duration of walks |
The animal will be healthy and cheerful if you take it out for a walk for 1.5–2 hours every day. This powerful dog in need of physical activity. In winter, she will happily take the children on sledding rides; in summer, she will play with a ball and run after fetch items. |
The playfulness of the Cane Corso |
The breed is playful and pet friendly. |
Attitude towards family members, strangers, other animals |
The owner for her is a king and a god rolled into one. The dog is friendly towards all family members. Be wary of strangers. Gets along well with other animals. |
Advantages and positive assessment when choosing this breed
- The Cane Corso is an excellent watchdog. The pet will protect property and owners from uninvited guests.
- The dog is smart and disciplined, easy to train. She quickly grasps what her owner requires of her and tries to quickly carry out commands.
- Easy to train.
- The breed looks impressive and intimidating. With such a companion it is not scary to walk even in the most disadvantaged area.
- Corso is affectionate and obedient to its own people, distrustful of strangers, and poses a serious threat to them.
- Grooming for representatives of the breed is minimal: combing the coat during shedding, active walking and feeding.
- The animal becomes strongly attached to one owner.
Disadvantages of the breed
- Requires active walking. A leisurely half-hour walk on a leash will not be enough for her. A young individual can damage things in the house if left alone for a long time.
- This is a large breed, in the education of which relaxation is unacceptable. You need to train your puppy from an early age.
- Puppies require early socialization. Representatives of the breed are naturally distrustful of strangers. If you don't want to lock your dog up every time guests, a plumber or a mechanic comes, start training it as early as possible.
- An animal makes various sounds in its sleep (snoring, sniffling), which can be unpleasant if kept in an apartment.
- High price. Not everyone can afford to buy a purebred puppy. And crossbreeds and puppies from unplanned matings can have health problems.
Cane Corso: dog character
According to the description of the Cane Corso breed, it has a typical Molosser character. It has the following features:
- mental balance– predictable, she does not have sudden outbursts of aggression, she knows how to wait for a command;
- boundless devotion to the owner– with proper upbringing, even a three-year-old child can command a huge dog;
- strong guard qualities– genetically embedded in the character is the desire to protect the perimeter of a house, apartment, or yard, and reacts severely to the appearance of strangers, however, a well-trained dog always lets go of the victim if it stops moving or the owner’s command is heard;
- a combination of external equanimity and playful temperament– actively involved in the game, young Corsos may not even hear the owner’s commands, but adult dogs behave sedately, their endurance can be envied;
- dependence of character on color– breeders note that gray individuals are more aggressive, just like representatives of the brindle breed. They have a more domineering character.
Behavior at home
He gets along with all the inhabitants in the house. She usually finds mutual language with children and other pets. This trait has deep roots. She was adopted back when Corsos were herding dogs. Since then they have been trying to establish contact with other representatives of the fauna. Even if the older pet shows aggression, the Corso will patiently wait for a reason to make friends with him.
The owners note that the Corso can be a nanny for small children. However, such a teacher should not be left unattended with the baby. And don’t forget to teach your children how to behave around a dog.
Behavior on the street
The herding past left another imprint on the character of the Cane Corso: she loves to patronize. If the family decides to go on a picnic, the pet will do everything possible to ensure that no one gets lost. He will always keep his “herd” under control. At the same time, he has no jealousy or selfishness, which is rare for Molossians.
Attitude towards strangers, protection of the owner and home
Well-trained adults react calmly to passers-by, strange dogs and other animals. This breed has retained the ability to evaluate the slightest changes in the behavior of others. If they begin to behave aggressively, the Corso turns from an easy-going companion into an angry protector.
Usually, if the owner is friendly to the stranger, she also behaves calmly. Her usual position is between the owner and the stranger. She watches every move, not letting anyone forget about herself.
However bad well behaved dogs They may not allow strangers near their owner and may attack cyclists, runners, and passers-by. Pets with whom they don’t walk a lot can behave the same way. A bored animal becomes irritable. Your pet will find something to do without you, but you are unlikely to like it.
Photo of horse car
 |
 |
 |
 |
The existing characteristics of the Cane Corso breed and reviews from experienced dog breeders allow us to conclude that with proper walking, the Corso will feel good in any living space. Year-round keeping outside is not recommended. If the animal is in an enclosure in winter, it needs to be provided with a warm place to sleep. This is a short-haired breed. She has a small undercoat, but it will not keep her warm in cold weather. The Corso is also not suitable for the role of a chain dog. He has too great a desire to communicate with people and a very freedom-loving character.
Grooming
The dog does not need haircuts. From time to time it is simply combed out special brush. Wool does not have an unpleasant specific odor. The pet does not create discomfort for the inhabitants of the house. It is washed several times a year. The rest of the time, the coat is cared for by wiping it with a rubber brush or a damp towel.
Nail care
An actively walking dog does not need to have its nails trimmed. She wears them down during walks. It is enough to keep them clean by wiping their paws with a damp cloth after going outside. But if you hear a characteristic clicking sound on the floor, you will have to give her a pedicure using special tweezers.
Eyes and ears
According to the standard, the lower eyelid should not be too saggy. If your pet's eyes are excessively moist, you need to make sure that there are no discharge or crusts in the corners of the eyes. Healthy ears do not smell and are always clean.
According to the breed standard, dropped and cropped ears are allowed. In our country, docking is allowed. It’s better to do this before 4–5 one month old. Please note that this surgery is prohibited in most countries and dogs with cropped ears cannot participate in international exhibitions held on their territory.
Teeth
Vaccinations
The vaccination schedule must be drawn up by a veterinarian. As a rule, puppies are vaccinated at least 2 times a year; adults only need to receive a polyvalent vaccine once a year.
What to feed
The Cane Corso's diet should be tailored to the pet's activity and age. It must be balanced. This is what they are trying to achieve different ways. Usually owners stop at either natural feeding, or buy ready-made feed.
It is important that the bowl of food is placed at chest height, and that the pet does not bend over while eating. You should not leave food in the bowl after eating, already with puppy age The animal needs to be taught order.
Puppy diet
Starting from 3 weeks of age, the puppy is accustomed to a normal feeding diet. You need to create a feeding schedule for your puppy. Babies are given food 3–6 times a day, gradually transferring puppies to the 2 meals a day diet of an adult dog. The portion is determined individually by observing behavior. If the puppy eats everything and calmly goes to his place, then the amount of food is suitable for him. If after feeding the puppy's stomach is swollen and lethargic, it means he has overeaten.
Protein food
Suitable protein sources:
- lean meat (veal, beef, chicken, rabbit);
- fish (preferably sea fish, river fish may contain helminth eggs);
- cottage cheese;
- eggs;
- milk.
Until 10 weeks of age, food is crushed. Raw beef or veal meat is scraped, boiled chicken and rabbit are ground in a blender. It is useful to give puppies the blood of slaughter animals (from 2–3 months). Meat products are introduced into the diet from 5–6 months of age. When changing teeth, young dogs are given beef bones. Meat is added at every feeding. It is combined with vegetables and cereals.
Fish should be given carefully. No need to mix it with meat. It is better to alternate meat meals with fish. To do this, remove all the bones from the fish, river species boiled, seafood can be given raw, everything is crushed. It is given 1-2 times a week to puppies from 4 months.
Raw eggs are given to puppies along with other food, while protein is completely excluded from the diet. The yolk can also be given boiled. Milk is good for puppies. It is given raw or porridge is cooked on it. From time to time, milk can be replaced with curdled milk. It is useful to give non-acidic cottage cheese.
Sources of fats
Cane Corso puppies need animal fats and plant origin. Their sources may be:
- milk, sour cream;
- butter;
- vegetable oils;
- beef fat.
The daily fat intake for puppies up to one year is 2.6–2.7 g per 1 kg of animal weight. Fats are added to porridges, vegetables, mixed with lean meat. With a lack of fat, puppies are stunted in growth. Excessive consumption of fatty foods can lead to disruption of certain functions, causing the animal to become inactive and lethargic.
Carbohydrate foods and vitamins
For puppies normal development you need sugar, fiber, starch. These substances are contained in:
- cereals (pearl barley, wheat, buckwheat, oatmeal, semolina, barley, corn, rice);
- bread, bran;
- vegetables (carrots, beets, cabbage);
- fruits and vegetables;
- honey
The puppy's daily diet should include 15–16 g of carbohydrates per 1 kg of the puppy's weight. To feed Cane Corso puppies 2 months old, cereals are crushed and brewed with hot milk. After cooling, feed it to the puppies. Starting from 4 months, Corso puppies are given cut. Whole grains are suitable for dogs aged 6 months and older.
You need to be careful with oatmeal. It is given once a week. Addiction to this product provokes inflammation of the anal glands. Legumes are not suitable for them either. They are poorly digestible by both puppies and adults. The exception is soy; it can be added in crushed form to porridge and vegetable salads.
Adult dog diet
The diet of an adult dog is not very different from the diet of a puppy. It's all about the amount of food. An adult Cane Corso requires 20–40 g of dry food per day (depending on body condition) and 30–60 g of liquid food with a significant water content.
The diet largely depends on how the dog is used. Service dogs they need more energy, which means they will also need more proteins/fats/carbohydrates.
An animal weighing 50 kg should consume daily:
- 220–230 g proteins;
- 60–70 g fat;
- 460–470 g carbohydrates;
- 35–40 g fiber;
- 1 liter of water;
- 30 g of mineral mixtures.
You cannot give:
- fresh bread;
- pork;
- lentils, peas, beans;
- spicy and salty foods;
- smoked meats;
- dishes from your table.
Training and education
The formation of a dog occurs in the first 3 months. During this period, the puppy needs communication more than ever. Provide for him or he will have behavior problems. He must understand from the first days that you are a teacher, and he is a student. But keep in mind that each puppy is an individual.
The Cane Corso is easy to train. The success of your puppy following commands depends entirely on your desire and determination. At least 20 minutes a day should be devoted to exercising with your pet. It is not at all necessary to teach your puppy the typical commands “fu”, “near”, etc. You can use your own words: “go”, “spit it out”, “give”.
The little Corso learns them well during play. But any abilities can be either developed or suppressed. If you do not have experience raising dogs, contact instructors. They will teach you how to properly handle this breed.
It is not reasonable to expect your baby Corso to behave like an adult dog. And this breed is characterized by slow maturation. Character is established only by the age of two. And do not confuse training with education. Raising a puppy begins from the moment it appears in the house, and Cane Corso training is done only with an older and stronger dog (usually from 5 months), since some techniques involve harsh influence on the pet.
Health, tendency to disease
Like all large breeds, Cane Corso often suffers from hip dysplasia. Such individuals are discarded and do not participate in breeding. However, in pursuit of profit, some unscrupulous breeders do not follow this.
Bitches often suffer from inflammation of the mammary glands. The disease can develop into oncology. Males rarely suffer from cancer.
Choosing and caring for a puppy
Before buying a Cane Corso puppy, you need to ask the breeder x-rays parents of the baby with confirmation of the absence of dysplasia from the manufacturers.
The selected puppy must be:
- moderately curious;
- playful;
- have shiny fur and clear eyes;
- have the correct bite.
The gender of the puppy is an important aspect of choice. Bitches have a more flexible character, they are easier to train, and are more suitable for women. Males have a more quarrelsome character.
Preparing for the arrival of a puppy in the house
First you need to decide on a nursery. Then set up a place for the puppy, buy a bed, a bowl, and food. Set aside a quiet place for the new member of your family. He should feel safe there, but don't separate him from his family. The puppy must see what is happening around.
Immediately show him his territory and explain what he is allowed to do. Do it calmly, without hysterics. If the puppy does something wrong, punish him; if he did everything right, praise him and give him a treat.
Teach your baby to hygiene from the first days. He shouldn't leave puddles all over the house. A small Cane Corso can wear diapers. But don't prolong this period. Try to take your puppy outside immediately after sleep. After he does all his work, praise him. And soon he himself will ask to go outside.
Breed standards
A thorough description of the dog's behavior and characteristics of the Cane Corso breed was compiled at the beginning of the 16th century and published in a treatise on zoology by the Swiss Gesner Conrad, the author of the first modern treatise on zoology.
| Usage | Guard, protection, police and herding dog. |
| Appearance | A large animal with a strong, powerful and elegant body. She has clearly defined, sculpted muscles. |
| Temperament, behavior | A security guard with a balanced character. In the past it was used for grazing livestock and hunting big game. |
| Head |
|
| Frame |
|
| Limbs |
|
| Gait |
|
| Wool |
|
| Color |
|
| Height |
|
| Flaws |
|
| Significant disadvantages |
|
Origin story
The ancestors of the breed are Molossian dogs. In ancient times, Cane Corsos served as guards, took part in battles and military operations, and tended herds. As time passed, firearms began to be used in battles, and the need for military dogs disappeared. Already at the beginning of World War II, the number of animals decreased significantly.
Today Italians call the Cane Corso their pride. However, despite its cultural and historical meaning, the breed was on the verge of extinction even in Italy. It was preserved by a group of enthusiasts who went in the 70s of the last century to look for preserved individuals to where the breed originated - to Locatia, Puria, and Sicily.
They managed to preserve the ancient beauty. The breed was officially recognized by the Italian Canine Association in 1994, and in 1996 international organization FCI. In 1999, the Association of Italian Cane Corsos was founded. The standard was adjusted and came into force in 2003. It is still used today by the International Cane Corso Federation.
The Cane Corso is intelligent and easy to train. The dog can be kept both in an apartment and in a private house. You can choose a Cane Corso puppy and monitor whether it is developing correctly based on its height and weight. This is what we will talk about in our article.
Height and weight are the most important indicators how well the dog is developing. They are different for males and females. Below is a weight and height table showing the standards for Cane Corso puppies:
| Age, month | Height, cm | Weight, kg | ||
| For a male | For the bitch | For a male | For the bitch | |
| 2 | 44 | 32 | 9 | 8,8 |
| 3 | 49 | 42 | 13,5 | 12,5 |
| 4 | 56 | 47 | 16,5 | 18 |
| 5 | 62 | 55 | 24,5 | 22,5 |
| 6 | 64 | 57 | 31,5 | 28 |
| 7 | 65 | 58 | 37,5 | 33,5 |
| 8 | 65,5 | 59 | 40 | 36 |
| 9 | 66 | 59,5 | 42 | 38 |
| 10 | 66 | 60 | 44 | 40 |
| 11 | 67 | 61 | 45,5 | 41,5 |
| 12 | 67 | 63 | 47,5 | 43 |
| 24 | 68 | 64 | 50 | 45 |
It is worth noting that all values are conditional. A deviation of 2-3 cm is allowed in height. The permissible difference in Cane Corso weight by month depends on the age of the puppy and is individual. If the dog does not look thin or well-fed, then there is no need to measure its weight, everything is fine with it.
Puppies up to two weeks old
Newborn babies are still very tiny. They are born weighing 300-700 g. In the first 2 weeks, the puppy exhibits only physiological needs: eat, sleep. Now he is completely dependent on his mother.
On the 12th day, the baby’s eyes open, but his vision is still very poor. By the end of the second week, the puppy develops hearing - this is manifested by the fact that he already reacts to sharp sounds. The baby is already standing steadily on his paws.
Two to seven weeks
During this period, the dog’s character is formed and he is ready for simple training. It is already clear who will have the makings of a leader. Depending on this, the method of training for a given period is selected. It is recommended to “push” inactive children to move, and to simply observe and make sure that active children do not harm themselves or spoil valuable things. Under no circumstances should you punish them, otherwise they will grow up fearful or aggressive.
It is important that puppies can have contact with people, then they will treat them normally, and strangers in the house will not cause aggression or fear in the dog.
First 2-3 months
This is the ideal period to wean your baby from his mother. He can now fully feed himself. His diet should include meat, vegetables, cereals and dairy products.
At 2-3 months old, puppies are very inquisitive. They enjoy studying the world, play a lot and have fun. During this period, they need love and affection more than ever.
You can actively start learning. After the puppy learns its name, you can start using the simplest commands (“Fu!”, “Come to me!”, “Place!”).
4-6 months
At 4 months, the dog has already reached a large size (height at the withers is 47 or 56 cm, depending on gender) and outwardly looks like an adult, but in behavior it is still a puppy who frolics and plays a lot.
Now the baby is not only trying to growl, but is also trying to establish a hierarchy in the family. It is very important to earn the dog’s respect and show that all family members, including children, must be obeyed. Otherwise, the dog will become uncontrollable and will feel like the mistress of the house.
Despite big sizes, this is still a “child” who is often afraid even of familiar things. The owner must support the pet and show that the object or sound that frightened it is not dangerous.
First 4 years
The weight of an adult dog already reaches 45 kg for females and 55 kg for males.
As a rule, the first mating is carried out during this period. After it, the males again try to take leadership positions, but this time not within the family circle, but among other dogs. Thanks to their strength, Cane Corsos can cause great harm to other pets with whom they previously played during a walk. Under no circumstances should a dog be allowed to assert itself in this way.
The dog’s character can be adjusted up to three years of age, but the older he gets, the more difficult it is to do this.
Video “Features of the Cane Corso breed”
From this video you will learn about the character of a Cane Corso dog and how to care for a dog.
Representatives of this breed are described as strong, powerful, but elegant dogs, fearless guards and loyal friends. They are quite large animals and require special nutrition. The right diet will provide good condition muscle corset, bones and joints - these are the parts of the body that usually suffer from big dogs as a result of non-compliance with feeding rules. So what can you feed Italian Molossians?
A similar question faces all new owners of a small pet of any breed. But in the case of Cane Corso, breeders and owners most often give preference, since Cane Corso have a tendency to food allergies. In this case, the question arises about the constant purchase of expensive hypoallergenic diets, and this is quite an expensive matter.
The advantage of dry diets is their ease of use and accurate dosing - just study the information on the packaging. And if the pet starts to be “capricious,” then you can diversify the menu with canned food, but preferably of the same brand as the main food.
If there is a problem like allergic manifestations, bypassed, then you can give preference and natural nutrition, but it must be balanced, include only permitted products and be adjusted regularly, depending on the time of year, the growth of the pet and its condition.
And it’s worth remembering - if a dog eats dried food, then it’s better for him to buy “treats” from a pet store, but with natural feeding, you can choose a treat from your pet’s favorite foods or dry the meat and use it.
What to feed a Cane Corso puppy
Compared to representatives of other breeds, the Cane Corso's maturation lasts quite a long time and throughout this period the pet must be fed according to a special, “puppy” diet. This also applies to the frequency of feedings - it will last longer than with other dogs.
You can switch the puppy to a new diet only 2 weeks after he has settled in his new home. And at first it is advisable to adhere to the schedule that was used when the baby lived with his family. You should decide on a feeding schedule, making equal time intervals between meals.
Such a large, muscular dog needs increased quantity proteins of animal origin. And the sources of this component are meat, fish, offal, eggs. Babies under 2.5 months old are given meat cut into small pieces, but twisted minced meat is practically not absorbed by the puppy’s body.
Beef, veal, and rabbit meat are suitable for feeding your baby. A couple of times every 7 days, you can treat your pet to fish - low-fat, sea fish, boiled and deboned. Large beef bones can be given to a puppy at 5-6 months, when teeth begin to change.
From six months you can include tripe (the stomach tissue of herbivorous cattle) in your diet, although nutritionally it is much poorer than meat, but it contains a large number of enzyme substances that have a beneficial effect on the work digestive tract. When giving this product, it is worth remembering that it should make up no more than half of the daily meat portion.
What to feed an adult Cane Corso
And in adulthood, the Cane Corso needs protein, so the diet is based on meat, and the pet is also given offal and fermented milk products. The ideal fish for the diet of dogs of this breed is blue whiting; it is given in its entirety, and it is also a good idea to supplement your pet’s menu with salmon breeds. Fish is given every 3-4 days, 1 kilogram at a time.
The menu should also include porridges cooked in vegetable or meat broths. Pieces of meat and vegetables are added to them, and they can be seasoned with either vegetable or butter. The dog should also eat vegetables regularly: cabbage, carrots, zucchini, and pumpkin are allowed. You can add fresh herbs to your dishes. 
You can give your dog fruit as a treat: pieces of apples, pears, apricots, peaches. Help diversify the menu fresh berries: raspberries, lingonberries, blueberries. You can make salads - season vegetable salads with a small amount of vegetable oil, fruit salads - with low-fat yogurt without additives.
When feeding dry diets, it is important to follow the instructions. And be sure to provide your dog with plenty of water.
What not to feed your Cane Corso
The following foods may be harmful to your health:
- boiled bones, tubular ();
- pork;
- salo;
- chicken and goose skin;
- marinades, pickles, spices, smoked meats;
- confectionery, baked goods;
- River fish.
In addition, owners should be aware of foods that can cause allergies: eggs, chicken, mackerel, water containing impurities, complex vitamins, some types of feed.
How many times a day should you feed your Cane Corso?
Given the intensity of the animal’s growth, the puppy will have to be fed 5-6 times a day for up to 5 months. Then gradually reduce the number of meals: 5-6 months – 4-5 feedings; 6-8 months – 3-4 feedings; 8-10 months – 3 feedings. From 10 months the dog is ready to switch to 2 meals a day.
Cane Corso Italiano is a dog with guard qualities, serious appearance and strong body. But in order for your pet to remain active and have excellent appearance, you need to feed it properly.
The Cane Corso or Corsican dog is a very active animal, ready to move a lot. And if such a dog’s need is satisfied, then to maintain health and good shape it needs proper feeding.
What to feed a Cane Corso puppy and adult dog? How to do this correctly and what should not be given to the animal? This will be discussed in this article. The choice of diet for each dog is determined by the conditions of its keeping, age and state of health.
Cane Corso is a breed late maturing and this is reflected in the feeding of the puppies. So they are fed up to six times a day until they are five months old. After and until the animal reaches full maturity at the age of one and a half years, the daily diet is divided into three parts.
Feeding Cane Corso with natural food
A Cane Corso puppy is gradually introduced to a normal feeding diet from the age of three weeks. It is best to feed your baby on a schedule, at regular intervals. It is better to place a bowl of food on a vertical stand at a level chest baby is taller.
Then he won't hunch his back while eating. The diet of both puppies and adult dogs should contain a balanced amount of proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins and minerals.
At the same time, natural food should be quite varied, which determines the health and life expectancy of the animal. Sources of protein for dogs are:
- meat,
- fish,
- milk.
Until the age of 10 weeks, the meat for puppies is ground and scraped. It is better to give raw beef, boiled chicken and rabbit meat without bones, blood is also useful. Chopped meat It is less easily absorbed by the dog’s body and it is better to limit its consumption.
From six months onwards, you can add offal to your puppy’s diet – more than once a week. Raw beef bones are given for gnawing, especially from 5 months, which promotes teeth change. Sea fish without bones begins to be given once a week from 4 months of age, without combining it with meat. The egg is given a raw yolk or completely boiled egg. Dairy products are also needed:
- cottage cheese,
- kefir,
- milk,
- curdled milk,
It is useful to cook porridge with milk: buckwheat, oatmeal, rice. Valuable sources of fat for Cane Corso are sour cream and butter. Their lack in the diet can lead to inhibited development and growth of the puppy, skin diseases, disruption of normal coat pigmentation, and vitamin deficiencies. True, you can’t overfeed fatty foods. This may cause digestive upset. For Cane Corso, the daily fat intake is 2.6-2.7 grams per 1 kg of body weight.
The Cane Corso also needs vegetables:
- cabbage,
- carrot,
- beet,
and the dog will also benefit from seedless fruits and berries:
- apples,
- raspberries,
- strawberry,
- cherry,
- cherries,
- apricot,
- watermelon.
There should be 15–16 g per kg of dog weight per day. They are given in the form of salads, seasoned with sour cream or vegetable oil. Along with meat food, it is recommended to feed the puppy Rye bread, soaked in low-fat broth.
Feeding Cane Corso dry food
The dog needs to choose the highest quality dry food that is most suitable for its health condition and age. An active adult Cane Corso needs approximately 700-800 grams of pellets per day. You can calculate the food depending on the weight of the animal: 20-40 grams per 1 kg of dog’s body weight.
For dogs that are used for service work, the rate should be slightly higher. Although in any case you need to carefully study the instructions of the food manufacturer. When switching a dog to a new food, for the first two months you need to carefully monitor its physical shape.
Overfeeding with high-calorie foods can lead not only to the acquisition of very serious illnesses: musculoskeletal disorders and diabetes. Old and not active dogs due to illness, they select lighter food and divide the daily portion into two or three times.
Loading...