Comment to 'discuss this with me'
  • You just answered your own question. Dogs are individuals. Both breeds can be dominant, hyper, and aggressive. Breed descriptions are rough guidelines to follow when making a choice. Dominance and size are relative to lines and individuals and breeder selection in either breed. However, as a BREED, Corsi are supposed to be more prey driven and active, as well as more active guardians. They are also not supposed to be very giant dogs. They should be no larger than 120# though many breeders unfortunately love the oversized ones in this country. Think the size range of a Rotty. When comparing the two, I would still say that the EM is more laid back, I never said couch potato. Dominance can also vary with the individual and in each litter. That said, the Corso is required to be aloof and disregarding towards strangers. Most tend to be quite suspicious of strangers and can be difficult to socialize. EMs do have good instincts, and can also be a challenge, but tend to be a bit more forgiving in the social department. I still feel that Corsi are more difficult with other dogs than EMs, and can pack up on strange dogs. EMs can also be reactive, but in general are better with strange dogs and most of the issues I have seen with the breed are prey based (in regards to other dogs) or fear based. Corsi are more "scrappy" if that makes any sense. You also have to take into account personal preferences and experiences with temperaments. To some people, what I listed about Corsi is no problem, therefore the breed is perfect. To others, it may be a problem. What I have noticed is this usually correlated with experience in difficult dogs and training in general. Therefore, perception does weigh on the advice you receive. Personally, the home you describe is a loving pet home that needs a low level deterrent dog that is moderately active. To me, this is not most Corsi, though you could find one to fit the bill. Like I said before, dogs are individuals. You also will play a large factor in the outcome of the dog. The amount of time you can dedicate to training and socialization will be very important to the final outcome. For instance, another member here helped "fix" an EM with several aggression and unruly issues with other dogs and people. The root of the problem was the fact that the dog was never worked with. It was never socialized as a pup and never trained. Whatever your choice, you are the biggest factor.