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Would I be better off with a GSD or Cane Corso?

fixitlouie

Well-Known Member
These are not working kennels. A working kennel can consistently produce dogs with the right drives, temperament and physical and mental attributes to succeed in the ring. Ron has Franklin out of Rivali's Mojo, but he'd be the first to say he's not a working kennel. Same with Joe @ Liberty. Having a promising prospect pop up every now and then doesn't make it a proven working line. There are several people working in that direction, but they have a long way to go. Keep in mind the Corsi will take on a different appearance that will reflect a smaller quicker more agile dog that is less prone to injury.

Well said.

fixitlouie via tapatalk via droid
 

joshuagough

Well-Known Member
Each of those produce legit contenders in the protection game, you can get into the classifications of what a correct working kennel does.. and doesn't do.. they all have faults (imports included). I'll spend my time training my dogs.





These are not working kennels. A working kennel can consistently produce dogs with the right drives, temperament and physical and mental attributes to succeed in the ring. Ron has Franklin out of Rivali's Mojo, but he'd be the first to say he's not a working kennel. Same with Joe @ Liberty. Having a promising prospect pop up every now and then doesn't make it a proven working line. There are several people working in that direction, but they have a long way to go. Keep in mind the Corsi will take on a different appearance that will reflect a smaller quicker more agile dog that is less prone to injury.
 

BlackShadowCaneCorso

Super Moderator
Staff member
All real working line CC's here in the US, you would be suit well with many of these.

LaOnda Cane Corso,Ohio *big fan here*
Bodyguard Cane Corso
PA Liberty Cane Corso
NY Firehorse Cane Corso, PA & I would second Rivale Cane Corso.

These are not working kennels. A working kennel can consistently produce dogs with the right drives, temperament and physical and mental attributes to succeed in the ring. Ron has Franklin out of Rivali's Mojo, but he'd be the first to say he's not a working kennel. Same with Joe @ Liberty. Having a promising prospect pop up every now and then doesn't make it a proven working line. There are several people working in that direction, but they have a long way to go. Keep in mind the Corsi will take on a different appearance that will reflect a smaller quicker more agile dog that is less prone to injury.

Josh you are right, those kennels have produced working dogs but so is Dal Cielo in that most of them do not claim to produce working dogs (in this case we will talk bite sport as work) because that is not their focus when it comes to their program. They are lucky and get a prospect and have someone that wants to work which ends up working for both of them. What should be made note of in some if not most of these cases is that they working lines can often trace back to a Rivale dog as a grandparent.

Firehorse in PA (has produced I think 2 that do work or have the potential to - traces back to Mojo)
LaOnda (I know the dogs but don't know what he has produced - has Rivale lines, but not sure if those are the ones titled)
Steeltown (not sure where located but they are working on producing working lines, not familiar with this kennels lines for work)
Liberty (produced at least one that works but think there are 2 or 3, traces back to Rivale)
Bodyguard (produced a couple that work, one being the first Sch 3, do not know the lines in his working dogs)
Italica Terrae (produced a couple that worked, trace back to rivale)
Rivale Cane Corso (has a couple with titles, trace back to rivale)
Amore Cane Corso (has some with titles, trace back to rivale lines [used to be a partner])
El Mesquital Cane Corso (has the most titled corso in all venues, think there is some rivale but also some American and import that are working )
Tai Nero (PSA titled dogs, breeds off Rivale line as a partner)

There are a couple working groups that you can find on FB that can provide the insight you are looking for into working corsos (I have the most basic of knowledge) that if you are truly interested are probably the best bet to join. Be aware they are a rough crew and have no time for BS ;)
 

joshuagough

Well-Known Member
The focus should be finding the correct pup (which was stated, and reiterated by Dal). I can show you 25 examples of some of the top GSD's in the world that don't throw the same temp. pups that their parents are. You can call it genes, you can call it the training, rest assure it's not based on how the kennels classified.. it's a dog thing not a breed thing. The kennel goes a long way in the mix, breeding the correct pairings & working drives at a young age.. however that doesn't equate to proven working lines.. nor a proven working kennel (in ANY breed).

Furthermore each of those kennels are well spoken of in the CC & working dog world. I've spent a world of time looking at each of them and each litter they've produced.

You're correct on the rough crew part, if you'd care to question the abilities the dogs.. they'd welcome you to suit up and take a bite. Questions answered to the fullest extent.



Josh you are right, those kennels have produced working dogs but so is Dal Cielo in that most of them do not claim to produce working dogs (in this case we will talk bite sport as work) because that is not their focus when it comes to their program. They are lucky and get a prospect and have someone that wants to work which ends up working for both of them. What should be made note of in some if not most of these cases is that they working lines can often trace back to a Rivale dog as a grandparent.

Firehorse in PA (has produced I think 2 that do work or have the potential to - traces back to Mojo)
LaOnda (I know the dogs but don't know what he has produced - has Rivale lines, but not sure if those are the ones titled)
Steeltown (not sure where located but they are working on producing working lines, not familiar with this kennels lines for work)
Liberty (produced at least one that works but think there are 2 or 3, traces back to Rivale)
Bodyguard (produced a couple that work, one being the first Sch 3, do not know the lines in his working dogs)
Italica Terrae (produced a couple that worked, trace back to rivale)
Rivale Cane Corso (has a couple with titles, trace back to rivale)
Amore Cane Corso (has some with titles, trace back to rivale lines [used to be a partner])
El Mesquital Cane Corso (has the most titled corso in all venues, think there is some rivale but also some American and import that are working )
Tai Nero (PSA titled dogs, breeds off Rivale line as a partner)

There are a couple working groups that you can find on FB that can provide the insight you are looking for into working corsos (I have the most basic of knowledge) that if you are truly interested are probably the best bet to join. Be aware they are a rough crew and have no time for BS ;)
 
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lizzymoo

Well-Known Member
Disclaimer: I'm completely biased towards CCs, having had two of them - and I would never have another type of dog, although I love all dogs. I can objectively say, though, that while the feedback I've seen from some others is true: they are large, strong, and have quite a presence, the personalities of our two CCs couldn't be more opposite.

Our first CC, Angel, was mistrusting of strangers, and completely protective of family and children. She would growl, show her teeth and hover near strangers who approached. She also wasn't fond of other dogs. Angel was very easy to train.

However, our current CC, Thumper, loves and trusts and licks everyone - humans, dogs and cats. (She is definitely not a watch dog.) Although clearly as smart as Angel, Thumper was not as easy to train. She's more happy-go-lucky. She loves the dog park and is very popular with large and small dogs. Our biggest worry is that she will jump up on people - including strangers and kids -for hugs and kisses.

Neither dog would bite, unless really provoked. Both Angel and Thumper integrated with the family (including two cats) immediately, both wanting to be involved in whatever's going on.

Truly, it's immpossible not to fall deeply in love with a CC.
 
A couple of you have pointed out that I am uncertain about CC, but this is simply because I do not know any. I have dealt with some GSDs (not working lines, however).

I have read on other sites that CC are extremely trainable, and was wondering how they compare to a GSD, as I have some experience with this breed.

And as for dog sports, IPO is not the main reason I want a large dog breed. If it were, I would be looking at GSD or Mal, as they excel at protection sports.

Also, it has been mentioned that CC are softer than most GSD, and respond well to positive methods of training (+ve reinforcement, -ve punishment). In your experience, is there any reason that GSD would not respond well to this type of training, and would require more traditional methods?
 

joshuagough

Well-Known Member
JeremyAtkinson, you'd be better suited spending time reading/learning on a working dog forum, most of the members here are pet owners. As mentioned also join the CC working groups on FB, there's a wealth of knowledgeable folks there. A working (prot. sport or otherwise) dog will be raised a bit differently than your average pet, as pups it's all "sport" that's where they start working on drives.

The training is dependent on you & the dog & the helper, it's got zero to do with the breed. As for a CC being "soft".. that couldn't be further from the truth, many CC's take to the defensive drives commonly & they don't quit. As for the methods of training very few in the working world train with positive only methods. At some point the dog will need some form of correction.

The best method is a case by case basis depending on your dog. Typically speaking the dog or pup you'd choose for IPO or Sch. would be more of a alpha & harder tempered w/ good prey drive. These dogs require leadership from the owner & handler or they can turn into a hand full, again regardless of the breed.


A couple of you have pointed out that I am uncertain about CC, but this is simply because I do not know any. I have dealt with some GSDs (not working lines, however).

I have read on other sites that CC are extremely trainable, and was wondering how they compare to a GSD, as I have some experience with this breed.

And as for dog sports, IPO is not the main reason I want a large dog breed. If it were, I would be looking at GSD or Mal, as they excel at protection sports.

Also, it has been mentioned that CC are softer than most GSD, and respond well to positive methods of training (+ve reinforcement, -ve punishment). In your experience, is there any reason that GSD would not respond well to this type of training, and would require more traditional methods?
 
You should look into a nice German Breed Rottweiler. A Rottie seems like the perfect mix between a Cane Corso and A German Shepherd if there was such a thing. My Rottweiler was the best dog ever. I highly recommend. My wife wanted to try a dog that sheds less so we tried the CC. I must say my cc is a good dog also. Only 4 months old and no shedding at all so far.
 
I think a CC would be better for me than a Rottweiler, as I like to do a lot of hiking and jogging. I think a Rottweiler might be a little too heavy-set for this kind of activity (the running, not hiking obviously).
 

Alla Zilberg

Well-Known Member
Hi Jeremy,

I have not read all the responses to your question, but here is my opinion about Schutzhund and Corsos.

There are very FEW bloodlines in Corsos that can do IPO (former Schutzhund).

If you are familiar with the sport, you know it requires mental stability, mental strength, agility, genetically strong and calm grips, train-ability, desire to please, a right combination of prey and defense drives, endurance, good healthy joints, etc.

Unfortunately, it has been my experience, that most of these traits, let alone all of them, are extremely hard to find in a Corso. Instability, extremely soft (lab like) temperaments, genetic diseases run in this breed...Thus, so very few titled IPO Corsos out there.

IF you decide to go with a Corso, I strongly recommend you import from a proven kennel either in Europe or in North America, but you have a 6 month quarantine, during which time even a good pup can be ruined :( Unless you know of a working breeder in Australia with PROVEN IPO Corsos, I would personally get a GSD for a sport, or better yet, a mal. As much as I absolutely love Corsos, you must get a right one for a sport, and such pup might simply not be available in your area :(

Good luck in your search!!!

Alla
 

Alla Zilberg

Well-Known Member
Guys,

its not necessarily true that GSDs are smarter or easier to train. What is true, imo, is that its way easier to find a good working prospect in GSDs, as these dogs have been bred for generations for IPO. It all depends on a dog!

I have received high OB with my boy in his IPO 1a, as well as multiple high in class in ckc ob and rally legs (competing against traditional obedience happy breeds)

For his 2a, Safir was the ONLY alternative breed trailing on a new field with new helper. There were 10 other entries, all GSDs (3 IPO 1, 1 IPO3 and the rest are BHs)
Out of 4 GSDs entered, Safir has beat 3 out of 4 dogs in OB (and beat by many points) and 2 out of 4 dogs in Protection! Not so bad for an alternative breed, hey? and I trialed under a very strict judge...

Keep in mind, i am a first time owner, trainer and handlerar...

Corsos are not hopeless if there are enough of us working towards a healthy, stable, agile and proper sized dog...
 
Guys,

its not necessarily true that GSDs are smarter or easier to train. What is true, imo, is that its way easier to find a good working prospect in GSDs, as these dogs have been bred for generations for IPO. It all depends on a dog!

I have received high OB with my boy in his IPO 1a, as well as multiple high in cl$#@! in ckc ob and rally legs (competing against traditional obedience happy breeds)

For his 2a, Safir was the ONLY alternative breed trailing on a new field with new helper. There were 10 other entries, all GSDs (3 IPO 1, 1 IPO3 and the rest are BHs)
Out of 4 GSDs entered, Safir has beat 3 out of 4 dogs in OB (and beat by many points) and 2 out of 4 dogs in Protection! Not so bad for an alternative breed, hey? and I trialed under a very strict judge...

Keep in mind, i am a first time owner, trainer and handlerar...

Corsos are not hopeless if there are enough of us working towards a healthy, stable, agile and proper sized dog...

Hey Alla,

Just watched all the videos of Safir I could find. Really nice looking dog. It is a testament to your hard work, training, the dog and the club that you have accomplished what you have as a 1st time handler. Kudos to you and Safir. I hope to see you go for your 3.

He's not a dog I would choose for a newbie, but you have done great with him!
 

Alla Zilberg

Well-Known Member
Hey Alla,

Just watched all the videos of Safir I could find. Really nice looking dog. It is a testament to your hard work, training, the dog and the club that you have accomplished what you have as a 1st time handler. Kudos to you and Safir. I hope to see you go for your 3.

Thank you David :)

He is actually a great house dog as well – very balanced! He lives with a 1lb free run ferret and plays with my friend’s kids and pups! So, I have to disagree with you that he is not a dog for a newbie, but of course, that assuming the “newbie†does all the necessary research and puts time and effort training the dog and understanding the breed! :)
 
Hey Alla,

Just watched all the videos of Safir I could find. Really nice looking dog. It is a testament to your hard work, training, the dog and the club that you have accomplished what you have as a 1st time handler. Kudos to you and Safir. I hope to see you go for your 3.

Thank you David :)

He is actually a great house dog as well * very balanced! He lives with a 1lb free run ferret and plays with my friend*s kids and pups! So, I have to disagree with you that he is not a dog for a newbie, but of course, that $#@!uming the “newbie†does all the necessary research and puts time and effort training the dog and understanding the breed! :)

I didn't mean that in a derogatory way at all. He's a lot of dog, and requires some good timing, which most new handlers don't have. You don't look like a 1st time handler, which is a complement. I am speaking more to a newbie being frustrated in training than him being aggressive or anything like that. He has a nice temperament for a newbie for sure. Most of the CCs I see in bitework are very civil. He looks like a nice balanced dog. I'd work him in a heartbeat :)
 

terzo corso

Well-Known Member
I didn't mean that in a derogatory way at all. He's a lot of dog, and requires some good timing, which most new handlers don't have. You don't look like a 1st time handler, which is a complement. I am speaking more to a newbie being frustrated in training than him being aggressive or anything like that. He has a nice temperament for a newbie for sure. Most of the CCs I see in bitework are very civil. He looks like a nice balanced dog. I'd work him in a heartbeat :)

Hi David Winners,

Hope you don't mind me asking..do you own Corsi?
 
Hi David Winners,

Hope you don't mind me asking..do you own Corsi?

Sure do :) He's my wife's velcro dog. I train shelter dogs at a couple of local shelters when I'm home, and I pulled him because he was labeled aggressive, but just had no manners. I had him home for about 3 days and decided he was staying. Super cool dog, and really turned me on to the breed. I have since trained a few, and seen a few more at a couple local clubs doing protection/PSA type work. He doesn't have the prey drive to do bite work without really pushing him into defense, and I see no need. He's doing medical alert for the wife and keeping an eye on things while I'm away. He's also the G'Daughter's best bud when she's around.

I'm heading home from Korea on Thursday, after 14 months away. I'll post some reunion photos next week :)
 

terzo corso

Well-Known Member
An extended hand and thank you for your service sir.

Reading over your post again,I misinterpreted your 'civil' comment as a criticism of the breeds innate behavior, as you've obviously seen they generally have no desire to interact and 'play fight' with some strange guy.

And since yours is watching over your loved ones,it's clear you understand what makes them 'tick'

The reunion pics will be cool! When I start watching reunion vids on YouTube,I can't stop watching them for about an hour straight,so I will just skim thru your pics then stop. Lolz

Sent from my PM23300 using Tapatalk
 
An extended hand and thank you for your service sir.

Reading over your post again,I misinterpreted your 'civil' comment as a criticism of the breeds innate behavior, as you've obviously seen they generally have no desire to interact and 'play fight' with some strange guy.

And since yours is watching over your loved ones,it's clear you understand what makes them 'tick'

The reunion pics will be cool! When I start watching reunion vids on YouTube,I can't stop watching them for about an hour straight,so I will just skim thru your pics then stop. Lolz

Sent from my PM23300 using Tapatalk

Civil in bitework means a real fight, not a game with a sleeve. I like a good mix of prey and civil in dogs that do sport bitework.

Lucian is a big goof until it's time to not be a big goof. Then he gets pretty serious. All civil, no prey.

I'm about to get my working dog back when she retires too :) That will be a tear jerker for sure.
 
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Alla Zilberg

Well-Known Member
I didn't mean that in a derogatory way at all. He's a lot of dog, and requires some good timing, which most new handlers don't have. You don't look like a 1st time handler, which is a complement. I am speaking more to a newbie being frustrated in training than him being aggressive or anything like that. He has a nice temperament for a newbie for sure. Most of the CCs I see in bitework are very civil. He looks like a nice balanced dog. I'd work him in a heartbeat :)

Oh, I did not take it as a deregatory comment at all :) I am just saying if you get a right dog, nothing is impossible :)