The Cane Corso originated in the Southern Italian countryside, above all in Apulia.
It used to be employed as a hunting dog for large game, in fights, with livestock, and as a guard dog. According to some experts, its name derives from the Latin "cohors", meaning protector and guard; others claim it derives from the Greek "kòrtos" (courtyard/enclosure), due to its excellent ability as a guard dog, as can be seen from its natural aptitude to guard.About fifteen years ago, some dog-lovers worked hard to save the breed which was facing extinction and they founded the Cane Corso Lover Society. In January 1994, the Cane Corso was officially recognised by the ENCI (Italian Kennel Club). Its numbers are now rising rapidly also in Europe and in the rest of the world.
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