The Cane Corso, an Italian breed known for its noble appearance, protective nature, and loyalty, is a magnificent addition to families familiar with large breeds. However, as with many puppies, a Cane Corso puppy may exhibit biting tendencies. Considering their potential size and strength, addressing biting behaviors early in a Cane Corso puppy is of utmost importance. This article offers effective strategies to ensure your Cane Corso puppy grows into a disciplined and gentle adult.
1. Understand the Reasons Behind the Biting
It’s essential to recognize why your Cane Corso puppy may resort to biting:
- Teething: Teething can be uncomfortable for any puppy, and the Cane Corso puppy is no exception. This discomfort might make them want to bite or chew on objects.
- Playfulness: A Cane Corso puppy often uses their mouth to explore their world and play with others. What starts as playful mouthing can sometimes escalate to harder biting.
- Seeking Attention: If biting garners your attention, the Cane Corso puppy may continue with this behavior to engage with you.
2. Provide Durable Chew Toys
Offering a Cane Corso puppy appropriate chew toys is a productive way to deter them from biting undesired objects or people. Due to the breed’s powerful bite, these toys should be sturdy and durable. Changing these toys regularly ensures the Cane Corso puppy remains interested and engaged.
3. Teach Bite Inhibition
Bite inhibition is a crucial lesson for any dog, especially a breed as formidable as the Cane Corso. When the Cane Corso puppy bites too hard, respond with an immediate, high-pitched “ouch!” This technique helps the Cane Corso puppy understand that they’ve applied too much force.
4. Consistency in Responses
Training a Cane Corso puppy demands consistency. Ensure every member of your household, and even frequent visitors, understand and adopt the same approach to biting. A unified response ensures the Cane Corso puppy doesn’t receive mixed messages, making training more effective.
5. Socialization is a Must
Socializing your Cane Corso puppy plays a pivotal role in molding their temperament. Regularly expose the Cane Corso puppy to various environments, people, and other animals. This exposure teaches the Cane Corso puppy appropriate behaviors and responses. Puppy classes are a fantastic way to achieve both training and socialization.
6. Avoid Aggressive Play
Although rough play may seem fun, it can inadvertently nurture aggressive behavior in a Cane Corso puppy. Opt for games that don’t involve direct contact with the Cane Corso puppy’s mouth, like fetch or hide and seek. If you do engage in tug-of-war, ensure you teach commands like “release” to maintain control.
7. Use the ‘Time-Out’ Strategy
If the Cane Corso puppy becomes excessively aggressive, consider employing a brief time-out. Following a hard bite, use a firm “no” and relocate them to a quiet area for a short duration. This method helps the Cane Corso puppy associate aggressive biting with a negative consequence.
8. Reward Good Behavior
Celebrate moments when your Cane Corso puppy behaves appropriately. If they choose a toy over a forbidden object, or if they play without biting, it’s the perfect opportunity for praise and treats. Positive reinforcement strengthens desired behaviors in a Cane Corso puppy.
9. Stay Patient and Seek Expertise
Remember, training a Cane Corso puppy is a journey requiring patience, understanding, and consistency. If you’re facing persistent challenges or if the biting continues, consider consulting a professional dog trainer, especially one familiar with the Cane Corso breed.
An Online Dog Training Course Can Help Your Cane Corso to Stop Biting
Our 2 favorite online courses are:
1. SpiritDog’s “Perfect Obedience” Course
The Perfect Dog Obedience Bundle is an online dog training program designed to help dog owners achieve well-behaved pets. The comprehensive course covers basic obedience, biting, loose leash walking, and includes bonus mini-courses on training habits and rewards, stopping jumping, and separation anxiety solutions. With lifetime access to expert trainers for personalized feedback and a 60-day money-back guarantee, this course aims to provide effective, accessible training for a variety of dog behavior issues.
2. K9 Training Institute’s “Dog Masterclass”
More than just an obedience course, this more comprehensive training course tackles any behavior problem you might face with your dog.
Conclusion
The Cane Corso puppy, with its spirited personality and immense loyalty, is a joy to raise. By using the above strategies and maintaining a consistent approach, your Cane Corso puppy will develop the manners and temperament fitting for such a noble breed. Your efforts during these formative months will solidify a harmonious and loving relationship for years to come.