Cursinu
Other name: Corsican Dog
The Cursinu was first bred in Corsica during the 16th century. A versatile and athletic working dog, the Cursinu is an effective guard dog, watchdog, and hunting companion. The Cursinu is highly active when on the job, but turns docile once the working day is over. They become very attached to their owner but can be a little wary around strangers.
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Life expectancy |
The Cursinu has a life expectancy of between 12 and 14 years |
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Temperament |
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Size |
Large
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Adult size |
Female
Between 18 and 22 in
Male
Between 18 and 23 in
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Adult weight |
Female
Between 55 and 62 lb
Male
Between 55 and 62 lb
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Coat colour
Fawn. Black and tan, deep brown. |
Black
Sand
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Type of coat
Flat, dense, coarse, sometimes fringed. Short to mid-length. |
Short
Long
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Eye colour
From hazel to dark brown. |
Brown
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The Cursinu is very rare outside of Corsica. He’s a real working dog, who may struggle with domestic life.
More details about the Cursinu
Cursinu: Origins and history
Also known as the Corsican dog, the Cursinu has been around since the 16th century. Although little is known about his origin, he's thought to have developed from various spitz breeds like the German Spitz and Elkhound. The breed almost went extinct during the late 20th century. Experts linked his decline to growing industrialisation and the introduction of more continental working dogs into Corsica. Troubled by the fall in the numbers, a group of dog lovers formed The Association for the Protection of the Corsican Dog. Not only did they halt the decline, but they've also contributed to his recent resurgence. He's still used as a sheepdog, guard dog, and hunting companion. The Cursinu is rarely kept as a household pet.
FCI classification of the Cursinu
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Group 5 - Spitz and primitive types
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Section 7 : Primitive type - Hunting Dogs
Cursinu: Characteristics
The Cursinu is very affectionate toward his owners but tends to keep a distance from people he doesn’t know very well. He can come across as a bit aloof.
This dog doesn’t know the difference between work and play, so games and playtime need to be stimulating and challenging. But once he’s done what he needs to do, he prefers to relax.
When he’s working or playing, this dog is extremely high-energy. But when he’s not, he turns into a quiet and docile animal.
The Cursinu is a highly intelligent working dog. His versatility means he can follow a wide range of complex obedience commands. Experienced dog handlers will really enjoy training this smart dog.
A natural hunter, the Cursinu was bred to track wild boar and small game, and can adapt to the most difficult of terrains. In fact, the Cursinu is still used as a working dog.
He does become quite shy around people he doesn’t know. He will tend to keep his distance until he feels comfortable enough to come and say hello. This generally makes him a good guardian.
This primitive dog is quite independent, but still very attached to his master and members of his social group.
Cursinu: Behaviour
This dog can bear being alone if accustomed from a young age, but by no means should he be isolated for days.
This dog can be distracted, so would benefit from a positive education and building a trusting relationship with his owner.
When hunting, the Cursinu utters a sharp and short bark, but never without reason.
His hunting instinct and dynamic energy can quickly compel him to follow interesting tracks.
If this dog becomes destructive, then something isn't right. One of his needs is not being met. He may need more exercise or more company.
The Cursinu will be content with little, but will respond well to treats as a motivator for training.
The Cursinu is a perfect watchdog; he’s alert, loyal, and very protective of his owners.
Training a Cursinu
This dog can be distracted, so would benefit from a positive education and building a trusting relationship with his owner.
Cursinu: Lifestyle
These dogs shouldn’t be kept in towns, flats, or small houses with no outdoor space.
These dogs need about 90 minutes of exercise each day. This needs to include plenty of high-energy activities like running off the leash and games of fetch. They should have plenty of physical, mental, and olfactory stimulation.
A Cursinu will have no problem dealing with short to moderate car journeys. Longer trips need to be planned out much more carefully.
Breed compatibility Cursinu
This dog has a high prey drive, and was bred to chase small, furry animals, not live with them. The hunting instinct must be well and truly controlled before hoping to bring a cat into the mix.
These dogs can be quite possessive over their owners, so it's best to introduce them to other dogs from an early age. Otherwise, they might get jealous.
The Cursinu loves the company of children and can be very patient and delicate with them if they are respectful.
Some elderly people might struggle to give this dog all the exercise it needs.
A Cursinu is not the dog for everyone. He needs an experienced master who knows how to meet his many physical and mental needs.
Cursinu: Purchase price
We do not have enough data to set an average price. Looking after a dog of this size typically costs between £80 to £110 a month, including food, medical/insurance, and incidental expenses.
Cursinu: Shedding
Average
Moderate year around, except during shedding season, during which the shedding is heavy.
Cursinu: Grooming
Very little grooming required. A weekly brush.
Cursinu: Health
This is a well-bred and very healthy working dog with an average life expectancy of 13 years.
The Cursinu is a tough and sturdy working dog, who is comfortable in rugged terrain. He is a well-balanced, athletic animal.
These Meditteranean dogs have no trouble dealing with the heat. His native Corsica has high temperatures, especially during the summer and spring.
They are not afraid of the cold or bad weather.
These active dogs tend to stay lean well into their old age.
- Hip dysplasia
- Bloat
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