I love Cane Corsos. Loyal and dependable, I find that they are the perfect companion dog and guard dog in one. The black brindle Cane Corso, also known as the reverse brindle Cane Corso, is an especially beautiful dog – and is more likely to live longer than Cane Corsos of other coat colors.
Thousands of years of circumstantial and selective breeding have produced a dog that retains its war dog origins while remaining specifically cuddly with their owners. Alert, sharp, and capable of absorbing training and learning commands, a well-trained black brindle Cane Corso can make a lovely addition to your family.
As someone who lives alone, I rely on my dog for both companionship and defense. I specifically chose a dog with this coat color in hopes of having a longtime companion. Like most of its breed, my black brindle Cane Corso is the world’s best snuggler. He also enjoys his own space in my home and yard.
What’s So Special About a Black Brindle Cane Corso?
Black brindle is among twelve coat colors recognized by the Cane Corso Association. Affectionately called “tiger stripes”, the brindle pattern appears on multiple breeds and mutts, from Boxers to Pit Bulls to Plott Hounds. Brindle dogs in general are the product of a recessive gene, meaning they can be rarer than other colors. The recessive gene is usually paired with the black coat gene, which is how we get beautiful dogs like the black brindle Cane Corso.
Black brindle Cane Corsos aren’t the rarest when it comes to coat color. The rarest are liver, Isabella, chocolate, or straw. Recessive colors not intentionally bred for American Kennel Club (and other dog clubs) standards are rarer as the brindle coat is more intentionally sought to fit standards.
What Genetic Traits are Associated With the Brindle Coat?
In addition to longevity in Cane Corsos, the brindle coat is associated with a high-spirited, active demeanor in most dogs. Like most of this breed, the black brindle Cane Corso will be about 28 inches tall and will weigh in at over 100 pounds.
The black brindle Cane Corso’s coat is typically red or brown, and the brindle striping consists of a black overlay. The coats with slightly lighter colors were more often used as hunting dogs. All Cane Corsos fitting breed standards have a double-layered short coat. Be sure to brush the dog weekly when it’s shedding season, and use a medium-bristle brush or grooming mitt.
Are Black Brindle Cane Corsos Recognized by the AKC?
If you’re interested in breeding or showing your dog, you’ll be happy to know that they are recognized by the AKC. I’ve opted to have my male Corso fixed because of a more agreeable temperament. But I still have his AKC registration and his veterinary records prove that he’s a healthy dog.
Should I Get a Black Brindle Cane Corso Puppy?
Generally, Cane Corsos aren’t the best dogs for first-time dog owners. If you’re experienced with large breeds and can commit to training, a black brindle Cane Corso puppy can be one of the most rewarding decisions for you and your family.
Previously, I’d owned a brindle Boxer and some smaller brachycephalic breeds like Pugs and Boston Terriers. I wanted a dog for a specific purpose, and one without the breathing problems those breeds experience. I knew I’d have time to spend training the dog, and the resources to hire a one-on-one trainer. It turns out that the black brindle Cane Corso puppy cost more of a time investment than the small breeds, but was more perceptive and intelligent than my Boxer had been.
Compared especially to my Pug, I found the black brindle Cane Corso easier to train. It was less stubborn and more willing to please. While my Cane Corso wants more independence than my Pug, he’s more willing to go off on his own and patrol the premises, do tricks, and come when called. I noticed that like most dogs, my Cane Corso was friendly with other dogs. I was sure to socialize him as a puppy and expose him to positive experiences.
How Much Does a Black Brindle Cane Corso Cost?
The cost of a puppy depends on whether you’d like a dog eligible for papers. The range can vary from $800 – $2,200 in the United States, depending on status and region. Those that are or can be papered will cost around $2,000. (I’ve spent more on training the dog than he cost, though, largely because he has a specific job in my family.)
Puppies, however, are not your only option. Dog rescues such as Must Love Corsos Rescue often have rescue dogs available for adoption. While it might take time to find a black brindle or another specific coat color, if you have the patience for a rescue search, it’s quite rewarding.
Cane Corsos have such an illustrious and noble history going all the way back to ancient Rome. Thus, Cane Corsos with established and documented lineages tend to cost much more. In addition to coming from championed breeding lines, the dogs simply have a longevity and history that can make the upcharge more than you’d see in other breeds.
One thing I considered was purchasing a black brindle Cane Corso dog with the necessary skills and training I was looking for. I found that Cane Corsos with basic socialization and house training and advanced guard dog skills cost around $2,000. Ultimately, I decided to get a puppy. I wanted to go through the training with him and bond with him when he was young. Most fully trained dogs were two years old; I didn’t want to miss two years of my beloved dog’s life.
While many breeds cost more as a puppy, trained adult Cane Corsos cost more. Prices will also vary depending on location. Dogs in California run from $3,000 – $6,000, while in the Northeast, closer to $750. Cane Corsos are popular in more rural areas of the country as well. This means they can cost more even in an area that’s comparably low cost of living. This is due to their value as hunting companions and guard dogs.
Deciding Between a Black Brindle vs. Blue Brindle Cane Corso Dog
Blue brindle Cane Corsos are a bit of a myth, especially when you’re talking about high breeder standards. It’s a red flag if you see “Blue Brindle Cane Corsos” for sale, as the breeder probably doesn’t know what they’re talking about. Typically, an observer is calling a gray brindle Cane Corso by the wrong name. This blue brindle label indicates that the breeder doesn’t know much about the breed standards of Cane Corsos. This could result in major medical problems (and expenses) for you down the road. Plus, you want a dog bred to function effectively, both in level of affection and working duties like guarding.
If you prefer the “blue brindle” coat, you’ll want to find reputable breeders who raise “gray brindle” instead. Behaviorally, there isn’t much difference between black brindle vs. “blue brindle” Cane Corsos. Most people choose which brindle dog to get based on availability and aesthetic preference. The early behavior exhibited by the puppies, or rank in the litter (runts tend to be more docile and don’t get as large) may also be a basis.
If you’re up for a commitment to training, a loyal companion, and a true best friend, I recommend the black brindle Cane Corso. I have nothing but good things to say about my dog and my relationship with him.