Frequently Asked Questions
About the Cane Corso Breed
The Cane Corso is a large, protective guardian breed that requires an experienced owner. Loyal and devoted to family, they remain naturally watchful of strangers. This breed needs consistent leadership, training, and socialization from day one. First-time dog owners or homes without large breed experience may want to choose a different breed.
The Cane Corso is intelligent, discerning, confident, and protective. They bond closely with their families and can be gentle with children when properly socialized. However, they have a naturally dominant personality. Owners must provide calm, consistent leadership without being harsh or heavy-handed.
Cane Corsos are athletic dogs that need daily exercise and mental stimulation. Regular walks, playtime, and activities that engage both body and mind are essential. Homes with space to move and explore are ideal for this breed.
When properly bred and socialized, Cane Corsos can be excellent with well-behaved children in their own family. Early socialization and supervision are essential. Naturally protective, they bond strongly with family members.
Males typically can range in weight from 115-140 pounds and stand 25-27 1/2 inches tall. Females are slightly smaller. Full height is typically reached around 15 months, but they continue filling out and gaining muscle until around 2-3 years old.
The average lifespan is 10 years, which is typical for large breed dogs. Proper nutrition, exercise, and responsible breeding practices all contribute to longevity.
Yes. Training is essential and should begin immediately. The Cane Corso is highly intelligent and eager to please but can be strong-willed. Consistent, positive training methods and early socialization are critical for this breed to become a well-balanced family member.
Cane Corsos tend to be relatively quiet but will bark to alert you to unusual activity. Watchful guardians by nature, they are not excessive barkers.
About Epic Cane Corso
Where is Epic Cane Corso located?
Epic Cane Corso is located in Oriskany Falls, New York, on 32 acres of beautiful farm land. We serve responsible homes throughout New England and all across the USA.
How long have you been breeding Cane Corsos?
Epic Cane Corso began in 2002 and has over 23 years of experience in the breed. We have apprenticed under accomplished breeders, served on the CCAA board, and earned recognition at the highest levels of the breed. (View Us on The Cane Corso Pedigree site)
What makes Epic Cane Corso different from other breeders?
We are a small, quality-focused program with decades of experience. Since AKC recognition in 2010, we have produced 29 AKC Champions, 12 AKC Grand Champions, and 2 CCAA Reproduction Champions. Additionally, we were named 2012 CCAA Working Breeder of the Year and have won at National Specialties and Westminster. Furthermore, we are AKC Breeder of Merit – Silver and AKC Bred with H.E.A.R.T. participants. Most importantly, we breed only our very best dogs and carefully match each puppy with the right family.
What health testing do you do on your breeding dogs?
Our breeding dogs are health tested utilizing PennHip, OFA elbows, OFA cardiac , OFA Patellas and breed specific genetic testing(DSRA and NCL-2). We follow the health testing standards recommended by the Cane Corso Association of America and maintain strict health criteria for all breeding dogs.
Are you members of the Cane Corso Association of America?
Yes. We are active CCAA members, and Heather served 9 cumulative years on the CCAA board in various positions including Director of Events, Health and Genetics Director, and Club Secretary.
The Puppy Process
Do you have puppies available?
We plan a limited number of carefully selected litters each year. Visit our Available Puppies page to see current and upcoming litters.
How do I apply for a puppy?
Complete our online application. This helps us understand your experience, lifestyle, and what you’re looking for in a Cane Corso. Because the breed is not right for every home, our application process ensures successful placements.
Why do you require an application?
The Cane Corso requires an experienced, committed owner. Our application process protects both our puppies and ensures they go to homes prepared for this breed’s needs. We carefully match each puppy’s temperament with the right family.
Do I need to wait for a puppy?
Often, yes. We intentionally breed a limited number of litters and prioritize quality over volume. However, waiting for the right puppy from the right breeding is always worth it.
When can puppies go to their new homes?
Puppies go home between 8-9 weeks of age after receiving age-appropriate vaccinations and health clearances.
What comes with my Epic puppy?
All puppies come with AKC registration, health records, age-appropriate vaccinations, microchip, health guarantee, and a contract. We provide lifetime breeder support.
Can I visit before placing a deposit?
Yes, approved families are welcome to visit and meet our dogs. We encourage potential puppy families to see our program firsthand.
Do you ship puppies?
We do not ship puppies but can put families in touch with a flight nanny who can fly in cabin with your puppy if you are unable to make the trip. We can also arrange ground transport for families unable to pick up in person. However, we prefer families who can visit and transport their puppy themselves.
Contracts and Breeding Rights
Why do all your puppies require contracts?
Contracts protect the puppy, the buyer, and our breeding program. They outline expectations, health guarantees, and ensure every puppy’s wellbeing throughout its life.
Can I breed my Epic puppy?
All puppies sold with breeding rights are sold with co-ownership contracts only. We do not sell puppies outright for breeding. All companion puppies are sold with spay/neuter contracts.
What does co-ownership mean?
Co-ownership means we maintain a stake in the dog’s future and breeding decisions. As a result, this ensures our bloodlines are used responsibly and protects the integrity of our program.
Why don’t you sell breeding rights outright?
We have spent over two decades building our program and producing exceptional dogs. Co-ownership ensures our progeny are used thoughtfully and maintain the quality and reputation of Epic Cane Corso.
After You Bring Your Puppy Home
Do you provide support after I take my puppy home?
Yes! We provide lifetime breeder support. We stay in regular contact with our puppy families and are always available to answer questions about training, health, nutrition, and any concerns that arise.
What if I can no longer keep my Epic dog?
Our contract requires that you contact us first. We will always take back or help rehome any Epic dog, regardless of age or circumstance. No Epic dog should ever end up in a shelter.
How do you socialize your puppies?
Our puppies are raised in our home with exposure to various sounds, surfaces, household activities, and handling from birth. Additionally, we focus on early neurological stimulation and age-appropriate socialization to prepare them for life as family companions.
What should I feed my Cane Corso?
We’re happy to discuss our feeding recommendations and answer nutrition questions.
Ready to learn more about Epic Cane Corso?
If you’re considering adding a Cane Corso to your family and believe Epic might be the right fit, we encourage you to explore our site and complete an application.