This is a straw or white cane corso color explanation from the angle of a cane corso breeder, Maxima Lux kennel. I have been in the cane corso breeding world since 2013. I saw that color about the same year and fell in love.
But beyond their striking appearance, there is a world of intrigue surrounding these rare Cane Corsos. From their ancient origins to the controversy surrounding their breeding and recognition, there is much to explore and uncover.
Origins of Straw Cane Corso
The origins of the Straw Cane Corso can be traced back to ancient times, when Cane Corsos, with a fur color ranging from white to cream, was known as straw. Due to their preferred straw-like color, these dogs were called Cane de Pagliaio, meaning watchdog. This color choice was associated with flammability, which was important for animal bedding, chalk production, and brick-making jobs.
Genetic Makeup of Straw Cane Corso
The genetic makeup of Straw Cane Corso can be characterized by the presence of the e mutation, which results in the absence of a mask and a fur color ranging from so-called white (actually very light cream) to cream. This unique color variation results from a specific genetic mutation that affects melanin production, the pigment responsible for coat color.
DNA results have shown that the straw color in Cane Corso is caused by the e gene mutation, which suppresses black pigment and prevents the presence of black or grey masks.
Straw color is “sable/fawn” at the A locus, and the “yellow/red” mutation at the E locus overrides any other coat color that may be genetically present.
Interestingly, the puppies with the straw color aren’t genetically fawn but have the same color genetics as a yellow Labrador Retriever.
Dogs with the e/e genotype don’t have a mask, as the mutation suppresses the production of black pigment.
Straw cane corsos must have two copies of this recessive gene to be that light yellow. if they have only one recessive gene, they will be carriers of that color.
If you breed two carriers, you will get straw puppies.
That is why some people unintentionally get straw coat puppies by breeding two black or other acceptable-colored dogs.
Controversy Surrounding Straw Cane Corso
Controversy surrounds the presence of the straw color in the Cane Corso breed, with differing opinions among judges and breeders.
The controversy stems from the fact that the straw color isn’t included in the current breed standard, leading to debates about whether Straw Cane Corsos should be considered a fault or a desirable trait.
Let me explain the situation in 2015. When I posted a straw cane corso puppy with a description for sale, many well-known breeders, mainly from Europe, threw sticks and rocks at me in FB comments. I firmly stood for color, one of my favorites from the time I saw it, and they called me many nasty names. For over two weeks, I was constantly providing proof that those dogs were highly appreciated earlier, mainly because of their temperament and appearance. Time passed, and after five years, they all had at least one straw adult dog in their pack. Why when they are not suitable for a breed, as they constantly say?
One more controversy about straws is judging. Some judges view the straw color as a fault, believing it deviates from the breed’s accepted color.
While some judges can’t see them in the show ring, some of them give them the biggest title of the show. So, a few years ago, we had an AKC champion in straw color.
Straw color is the same issue in the cane corso world as prognathism for a guard dog, but it’s another subject.
It was mistakenly believed that the straw color, now known as white or cream with pigmentation, was albino. The influence of the Abruzzese Sheepdog on the breed’s color remains uncertain. While Straw Cane Corsos aren’t currently included in the breed standard, there’s hope that the ENCI will eventually add the straw color to the standard book.
The future of the Straw Cane Corso remains uncertain, with some hoping that the color will be included in the breed standard.
Future Prospects for Straw Cane Corso
The prospects for the Straw Cane Corso breed are promising, as there’s growing interest and recognition for this unique and rare white Cane Corso community. Breeders and enthusiasts are intrigued by the straw color’s historical significance and association with the breed’s origins in southern Italy.
Importance of health Testing and Bloodlines
While discussing the prospects of the Straw Cane Corso breed, it’s imperative to highlight the importance of health testing and bloodlines in ensuring the integrity and well-being of these unique dogs. To fully understand the significance of health testing and bloodlines, consider the following:
• Health testing allows breeders to identify and address potential genetic health issues, promoting the overall health and longevity of the breed.
• Bloodlines provide valuable information about the ancestry and lineage of a dog, helping breeders make informed decisions about breeding pairs.
• Health testing and bloodlines contribute to preserving breed standards, ensuring that future generations of Straw Cane Corsos possess the desired traits and characteristics.
• By prioritizing health testing, not only genetics, which is less important in my opinion if you follow the bloodline but hip and elbow examinations, eye checks, and heart also, breeders can reduce the risk of hereditary diseases and improve the overall quality of the breed.
• The combination of health testing and well-established bloodlines is essential for responsible breeding practices and the continued development of any cane corso, especially the Straw.
Breeding Practices and Considerations
When considering breeding practices and considerations for the Straw Cane Corso, it’s important to prioritize genetics, pedigree bloodlines, and adherence to breed standards to ensure the purity and quality of the breed. Here are some key factors to consider:
• Genetic Testing: Genetic tests can help identify potential health issues or genetic abnormalities in the breeding stock, ensuring healthier white cane corso puppies.
• Bloodlines: In straw Cane Corsos breeding, there is a bit more important pedigree to maintain the authenticity and original characteristics of the breed than in standard coat color breeding.
• Breed Standards: Adhering to breed standards set by organizations such as the ENCI and American Kennel Club ensures that the offspring meet the breed’s desired physical and temperament traits in structure, proportion, and temperament.
• Health Clearances: Before breeding, ensure the dogs have undergone the necessary health clearances to minimize the risk of developing hereditary diseases.
• Responsible Breeding: Responsible breeding practices involve carefully selecting breeding pairs, providing proper care and socialization for the puppies, and staying committed to the overall well-being of the breed, not only choosing a standard-color dog without hip and elbow scores.
Straw Cane Corso and the ENCI Standard
The ENCI standard for Cane Corso does not currently include the straw color, but ongoing discussion exists about its potential inclusion. As a breed enthusiast, I recognize the importance of innovation and diversity. The straw Cane Corso, with its unique and rarest cane corso color, adds an element of uniqueness to the breed. To further explore the potential inclusion of the straw color in the ENCI standard, let’s take a closer look at the characteristics of the straw Cane Corso compared to the current standard. Please refer to the table below for a side-by-side comparison:
| ENCI Standard for Cane Corso | Straw Cane Corso |
|---|---|
| Colors: black, blue/grey, brindle, fawn | Color: straw |
| Mask: required | Mask: absent |
| Pigmentation: present in fur | Pigmentation: absent in fur |
Notable Breeder of Straw Cane Corso
Considering the potential inclusion of the straw color in the ENCI standard for Cane Corso, it’s important to recognize the breeders who’ve been instrumental in preserving and promoting this unique coat variation.
Who is the notable Breeder of Straw Cane Corso?
– Breeder with extensive knowledge of the breed’s genetics and color variations.
– Breeder who prioritize the health and temperament of their dogs.
– Breeder who’ve successfully produced high-quality straw Cane Corsos with desirable conformation for an extended period of time.
– Breeder who’ve conducted health tests to ensure the purity and health of the straw color gene.
I don’t want to sound rude, but I don’t think there are many. I know I am the one. As the straw color becomes more and more wanted because of its exclusivity, that’s how more and more breeders are involved in breeding straw corsos, even the ones that in the past spoke very badly about it.
My kennel, Maxima Lux, has played a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of the straw color in Cane Corsos and has contributed to the breed’s overall development. My dedication has allowed the straw Cane Corso to gain worldwide recognition and appreciation among enthusiasts.
Is white Cane Corso rare?
White Cane Corsos are considered to be the rarest color within the breed. While most Cane Corsos are seen in black, blue/grey, brindle, and fawn colors, the white variety is much less common.
This scarcity makes them highly sought after by enthusiasts and breeders who desire innovation and something different within the breed. If you are considering adding a white Cane Corso to your family, be prepared for their rarity and the attention they will attract.
What is a white Cane Corso called?
Cane Corsos with a predominantly light yellow or cream color and no mask are called Straw Cane Corsos. People call this color white, but it’s a more general saying. Purebreed cane corsos can’t be white like Dogo Argentino but very light cream. That’s why straw color is the most precise name for this color of Italian mastiff. And that is the most common name for this color.
But this color is also known as the old magnificent cream color and earlier fomenting full. There is a myth that color is given the name straw as their temperament was flammable like the straw.
Health of Straw Cane Corso
The health of Straw Cane Corsos is a vital aspect to consider when owning this unique breed. As with any dog, it’s crucial to prioritize their well-being to ensure a happy and fulfilling life.
Straw Cane Corsos, with their rare and distinctive coat color, require the same attention to maintain their overall health as regular-color dogs. Regular veterinary check-ups, proper nutrition, and exercise are essential for their physical well-being.
People are confused after reading many misconceptions about this color’s health. They are comparing the straw color with a white boxer. This is not white, as it is a color of Dogo Argentino, not even close. Many misinformed people are writing on the web.
Straw cane corso is perfectly healthy as the standard color one. Not even one health issue straw color can’t cause.
The only health issue you can have with a straw-colored cane corso is if you buy it from a breeder who doesn’t do regular health checks for his dogs.
How much does a straw-colored Cane Corso cost?
When considering the purchase of a Cane Corso with a white coat, it’s essential to consider the various factors that can influence the cost. Here are some key points to consider:
• Bloodline: The lineage and pedigree of the Cane Corso can significantly impact the price. Dogs from reputable breeders with strong bloodlines tend to be more expensive.
• Health Testing: Breeders who conduct health tests on their dogs and provide documentation may charge more for puppies. This ensures that the puppy is healthy and free from any genetic disorders.
• Location: The cost of a white Cane Corso can also vary depending on your location. Prices may be higher in areas with higher demand.
The cost of a white Cane Corso puppy can range anywhere from $2,000 to $8,000 or more, depending on the breeder and the specific traits of the dog.
Investing in a quality Cane Corso from a responsible breeder who prioritizes the health and well-being of their dogs, not only the color, is always recommended.
By doing so, you won’t only be getting a high-quality dog but also supporting the breed’s uniqueness and its preservation.
And if the breeder is correct, you will get lifetime support and answers to any question because the breeder’s interest is the wellbeing of every one of his puppies.
If you are interested in straw cane corso puppies, contact me HERE.
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