New to breed concerns

[Mbrooks78]

My wide and I have been looking at Corso's for awhile now and have even narrowed our new pup down to a breeder and a time. I have a few concerns that I would rather have answered from real owners and not other sources. We have a three year old son I am not worried about him and I understand the dedication and work this breed will require to be a model companion and obedient. I am more concerned with tendencies that may not be as easy to train. Is the Corso so innately protective that we will have issues with his friends coming over, less frequent family and our friends? I am not expecting a tail wag at whomever approaches, nor do I want that, but I would like to know that people we are comfortable with will feel comfortable as well. Any current owners care to offer their experience?

 

[BlackShadowCaneCorso]

We have 4-5 corso at any given time in our house with our 2 kids, they vary from very social to not wanting to be touched by strangers at all. The rule is if we invite people into the house they are required to be non-reactive unless a threat is perceived. Some will just sit off to the side an monitor the situation and some will go and greet the visitors. There is a wide variation on what the breed has for temperaments so just be sure to talk to your breeder about your lifestyle, what you would like, the activity, etc. When you get your pup expose them to everything, while they might not like or want to be petted by strangers (and that is perfectly alright, I don't like everyone so don't require my dogs to either) they do need to be taught to be non-reactive in situations.

 

[DennasMom]

What Mary said.

The only mastiff that has a near 100% bad response to "outsiders" (as I understand it) is the Fila/Brazilian mastiff. They are known for their intolerance of strangers. I think the rest of the "family" of mastiffs fall on a much wider temperament band, as Mary mentions, depending on the focus of the breeder.

When bringing up the CC as a puppy, the more you socialize - with people, places and objects - and keep everything very positive, building confidence in the puppy and reinforcing calm reactions to "new" stuff, the more likely your dog will grow into a welcoming presence in the home. You can instill vocabulary early just by repetition, by naming people as they come in as "friend" as you introduce them with praise and treats to the young puppy. Denna (english mastiff) sometimes has cautious or fearful reactions to people, but if I go up first and shake their hands, and then invite her over to join us, she normally will relax a bit more - or at least be a bit more curious about the new person, versus fearful or protective. She's also much more likely to invite someone into HER space if they grab the other end of a rope toy and play some games with her - tug is a great ice-breaker for Denna.

Even with all the "right" socialization, you might get an adult dog that doesn't like to socialize with strangers, these are very family-oriented breeds... at that point, you still should be able to get them to go to their "place" (bed, crate, room, etc.) and quietly allow the humans to do their thing - although, maybe under some intense canine scrutiny.