Cursinu
Other names: Corsican Dog
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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.
Key facts about the Cursinu
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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 breed nomenclature
FCI Group
Group 5 - Spitz and primitive types
Section
Section 7 : Primitive type - Hunting Dogs
Physical characteristics of the Cursinu
Adult size
Female : Between 18 and 22 in
Male : Between 18 and 23 in
Weight
Female : Between 55 and 62 lb
Male : Between 55 and 62 lb
Coat colour
Fawn. Black and tan, deep brown.
Type of coat
Flat, dense, coarse, sometimes fringed. Short to mid-length.
Eye colour
From hazel to dark brown.
Description
The Cursinu is a robust dog, with a lean and athletic frame and long, sturdy legs. He usually has a distinct black and tan speckled coat. His skull is flat, his eyes oval, and his ears triangular, drooping or semi-drooping. He has a relaxed and gentle expression.
Good to know
The Cursinu is very rare outside of Corsica. He’s a real working dog, who may struggle with domestic life.
Temperament
Behaviour of the Cursinu
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Is the Cursinu right for you?
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Compatibility
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.
Grooming
Very little grooming required. A weekly brush.
Nutrition of the Cursinu
2-3 cups of high-quality dog food. One meal a day is enough, preferably at a quiet time in the evening.
Health of the Cursinu
Life expectancy
This is a well-bred and very healthy working dog with an average life expectancy of 13 years.
Strong / robust
The Cursinu is a tough and sturdy working dog, who is comfortable in rugged terrain. He is a well-balanced, athletic animal.
Withstand heat
These Meditteranean dogs have no trouble dealing with the heat. His native Corsica has high temperatures, especially during the summer and spring.
Withstand cold
They are not afraid of the cold or bad weather.
Tendency to put on weight
These active dogs tend to stay lean well into their old age.
Common illnesses
- Hip dysplasia
- Bloat